Types of Roof Warranties
Extended Manufacturer Warranties
You probably shouldn't consider hiring a contractor that isn't registered with the manufacturer of the roofing materials going on your roof. Roofing contractors that are registered / certified by the roofing manufacturer have the abilities to offer homeowners extended warranties on well-equipped roofing systems.
For instance, you can achieve a 50 Year Lifetime warranty with Owen's Corning or GAF roof shingle systems; but only when you match a certain number of vital components to the same manufacturer. Many of these roof components offer lasting protection to your Tucson roof, which in turn gives your material manufacturer the confidence to back the product for a lifetime; but only when installed by a trusted roofer in Arizona.




The Homeowner's Guide to Roof Replacement: Things You Should Know Before
A roof replacement is a significant and costly home improvement project that deserves careful consideration. There's a wealth of information to absorb in order to make informed decisions, ease worries, understand your expenditures, and so much more, so you can feel confident about such a major investment.
Getting all the information you need about replacing your roof is as simple as asking the right questions. The challenge lies in knowing what to even ask when you're looking for the right answers.
This is ABRC's : The Homeowner's Guide to Roof Replacement, your go-to guide for everything you need to know before you replace your roof. Feel free to browse at your own pace for a complete understanding, or utilize the table of contents to navigate directly to specific roofing details.
Sections:
Exclusive for homeowners in the Tucson area: this guide will teach you everything there is to know about investing in a new roof system.
Hiring A Great Roofing Contractor
Learn what to ask and what red flags to look out for
Getting 3 Different Quotes
Discover the 4-Step process to obtaining 3 roofing bids
When does a roof system reach the end of it's lifecycle?
The lifecycle or lifespan of your desert roofing system depends on a few factors:
-
Quality of material
-
Roof ventilation
-
Quality of the Install
-
Maintenance habits (bad ones)
If your roof appears to have signs of decay... Odds are it's reached the end of its lifespan. Here's how long each roof system can last; but in Tucson, Arizona.
20-30 Years
-
Architectural Shingles
-
Tile roof w/ Premium Underlayment
-
Built-Up Roof w/ premium roof coating
-
TPO Roof
10-15 Years
-
Single-Ply Built-Up roof w/ elastomeric coating
-
Tile roofing FELT underlayment
35+ Years
-
Standing Seam Metal Roof
Tile roof w/ Ultra Premium Underlayment -
Premium Shingles
-
TPO Roof w/ thicker mil
15-20 Years
-
3-Tab Shingles (disc.)
-
Mod-Bit Granulated Roof system
-
Spray foam roof w/ premium coating
-
Exposed fastener Metal Roof

When do I know I need a new roof?
Waiting for your roof to start leaking doesn't make it last any longer, this only increases your chances of mold growing. On the other hand, some homeowners are skeptical because they've ran across dishonest or inexperienced contractors.
Some roofing systems in Tucson, such as: built-up roofs, spray foam roofs, some metal roofs, and TPO roofs can be restored when they get closer to that lifespan expiration date.
Signs that your roof is on it's last breath
Loss of granules, missing shingles, curling/buckling, cracks, fiber-wire sticking through, and heavy storm damage
Shingle Roof
Pooling/standing water, "soft"/spongy areas, excessive amounts of black tar/adhesives visible heavy storm damage
Built-Up Roof w/ Elastomeric Coating
If your roof is leaking and you have silicone coating, the only option is to replace. Unfortunately nothing, not even silicone, adheres to silicone :(
Built-Up Roof w/ Silicone Coating
Your spray foam has huge blisters, unevenness that traps water, and/or is completely exposed and drying up.
Spray Foam Roof w/ Coating
Fasteners are failing / falling, rust, and buckling
Corrugated / Ribbed Metal Panels
The underlayment beneath the tiles is the most vital component. The only way it's condition is to have an experienced roofing contractor inspect your tile roof's underlayment.
Tile Roof
*Blown off tiles are not signs that you need all new tiles*
Concrete/Clay tiles them are designed to last 50+ years. They are natural materials w/ no watertightness warranty.
Did you know?
When should I replace my roof?
A reputable contractor should advise you to look into replacing your roof when you've reached about 80% of its lifespan. This is because our dry heat affects all building components and tends to accelerate your roof's lifespan.
For the new roof, you may want to look into a Cool Series material or something more flexible than you had before. Flexible & reflective roofs perform best in Tucson's climate.





Not even the toughest of roofs can survive a really bad monsoon storm.
If a recent storm has affected your area, it is likely that your entire roof system may have been affected. You should not rely on what your eyes can see from the ground. If your neighbors are chirping about it, you should likely get your roof checked, too.
Storm damages are covered by your insurance provider
If you have homeowner's insurance, your roof likely covered by your policy provider. You must act fast because they may hold you accountable for lack of damage mitigation.
If your roof blew off, make sure to:
-
Mitigate / Control the Damage. Tarps and sandbags are ideal for this.
-
File A Claim
-
Meet w/ Your Adjuster
-
Do your research on local roofers
-
Collect Insurance Funds
-
Hire a Roofing Contractor




Have you seen roofers in your neighborhood lately?
If you've noticed a new trend in your neighborhood: roofers on roofs, then you should take this as your first sign that you should have your roof inspected if you haven't already.
The homes in your neighborhood were all likely built within five years of one another. If you sense that your roof may be upwards of 20+ years old, there's a chance you may be the next neighbor due for an upgrade.

Fascia / Eave Repairs
Fascia boards are trickier to distinguish dry-rot from aged / peeling paint. Regardless, the fascia boards must also be strong enough to also be nail-able. Fascia / eave boards are the structural component that your plywood and drip edge is nailed to.
These repairs add to the bottom line because the additional carpentry work + delivery of materials. Fascia boards range in size so this can also add to the costs of replacement. Roofing contractors normally charge by the linear foot on this and may charge more depending on the hazard and the difficulties involved in reaching the fascia boards.
Decking Repairs
It is absolutely vital that your new roofing system is installed over a solid and suitable substrate. The surface must be nail-able and suitable for adhesive roofing products. If any sheets are spongy, damaged by moisture, dry-rot, or warping, these are signs that the sheet must be replaced.
Substrates that most manufacturers consider suitable are: OSB / Plywood (1/2" min), plank / tongue & groove boarding (1"), concrete, and sometimes metal decking. Roofing companies normally charge by the sheet of 4'x'8' plywood decking or by the linear foot for plank boarding substrates.




Pitched Roof Components
Universal Roof Components
Roof Decking
This is the roof substrate (sheathing). The most common decking types in Tucson are: OSB, CDX, CCX, Plank boarding and tongue/groove. This is the structural component that attaches to your home's trusses.
Ice & Water Barrier
This barrier adds an extra layer of protection to your roof's most sensitive areas. Things like transitions, valleys, and pitch breaks should all get this material.
Roof Flashings
Cricket
This structural component diverts water away from walls and other vertical changes on your roof. These are most common on chimneys and flat roofs with parapet walls.
These are typically made of metal and are roofing components designed to shield joints and other components from water intrusion. Examples are: drip edge, valley, Z-bar, & counter flashings.

Flat Roof Components
Underlayment
This is the vapor barrier that goes directly above your decking to provide additional protection to your roof system. This is the main component for waterproofing tile roof systems
Pipe Boots
These terminate the round tubes that stick out of your roof. A metal/rubber boot protects this vertical joint from leaking.
Ridge Cap
This is the trim piece of roof material installed where two slopes meet to form the "ridge/hip".
Roof Vents
These vents allow fresh air to regulate the temperature of your crawl/attic space. Usually "T-Tops", Static Vents, Mechanical Vents, Ridge Vent, etc.

The 7 factors that go into your roof replacement costs
There are several factors and project aspects that are accounted for when calculating the true costs of your roof replacement. These 7 factors are:
-
The overall size of your roof
-
The type and quality of material
-
The complexity of your roof
-
Level of workmanship provided
-
Decking / fascia repairs needed
-
Waste / delivery fees
-
Roofing company overhead


Overall size of your roof(s)
Like most home improvement projects, the more materials you need, the more it's going to cost. But it's more than roof slope measurements; transitions, vertical changes, and other tricky areas on your roof system must also be accounted for.
-
Total SQFT of roofing slopes
-
Total LFT of valleys & transitions
-
Total LFT of hips & ridges
-
Total LFT of all fascia & eaves
-
Total LFT of all wall & vertical changes
Type and quality of materials
Rule of thumb is that you get what you pay for. Not all roof systems in Tucson are the same. The type, style, and quality of the materials will be a driving factor for the overall costs of your roof replacement for your home in Southern Arizona.
Price Range:
$4 - $6 / SqFt
-
Architectural Shingles
-
Overlay Installations such as: Spray Foam Roof + TPO w/ recovery board
Price Range:
$5 - $10 / SqFt
-
Concrete Tile Roof
-
Spray Foam Roof (SPF)
-
Built-Up Roof (BUR)
Price Range:
$5 - $10 / SqFt
-
Concrete Tile Roof
-
Spray Foam Roof (SPF)
-
Built-Up Roof (BUR)
-
TPO Roof
Price Range:
$10 - 18 / SqFt
-
Standing seam metal roof
-
Composite Shingles
-
Metal (diamond) Shingles
Price Range:
$18 - $25+ / SqFt
-
Natural Slate Roof
-
Spanish Clay Tile Roof
-
Cedar Shake Roof
$1.50 - $3.50 / SqFt
-
Flat roof coating
-
Metal roof coating
-
Spray foam roof coating
Frequently asked questions
Complexity of your roof
Your roof was designed with characteristics and components that are unique to your home. If your roof system has a plethora of transitions, pitch changes, and vertical changes, this will affect the costs of your roof replacement.
A whole lot of time and skill is invested in waterproofing your home while improving its curb appeal. Your home may have: excessively steep slopes, many valleys, roof slope transitions, many skylights, or other complex penetrations that are sensitive to your roof and require additional workmanship to watertight.

Level of workmanship warranty
The roofing contractor in Tucson that you hire will determine the level of peace of mind you'll have after replacing your roof. Your contractor should be offering lifetime system warranties on their proposed roofing systems. If they are not, then they don't hold the proper certifications necessary by roof material manufacturers.
If you hire a reputable contractor, they should be offering you 10 year workmanship warranties on their work. If they are not, they likely lack confidence in the roofing work they're doing for you. It's hard to place a value on peace of mind; but hiring a trusted contractor in Tucson may be worth it in the end.


It pays to be proactive
Interior leaks should be treated as a high importance matter for the sake of your health. Trapped moisture eventually grows into mold and this can spread, the longer you wait to fix your roof.
Roofs should be inspected at least twice per year to ensure that nothing is affecting the system from keeping 100% of moisture out. Keep in mind, materials can't do their job if they are not properly maintained.



Waste & deliveries
Before you get a new roof, it is likely that you'll be tearing the existing roof off. This remnants of your old roof would then be hauled away to a local landfill or recycling facility depending on the roofing system.
The process of tearing off your roof is one of the most labor intensive aspects of the project and the costs associated with this process will affect the bottom line.
Decking & Fascia Repairs

Top 3 pitched roofing systems in Tucson
Pitched roof systems refer to roofs that are typically above a 2:12 slope. This matters because you are limited to certain classes and types of material if your home's roof is less than a 2:12 slope.
In this section, we'll discuss the Top 3 pitched roof systems in Tucson, AZ. These roof systems are ranked based on cost effectiveness and local popularity.
Top 3 Pitched Roof Systems in Tucson area:
-
Asphalt Shingle
-
Concrete / Clay Tile
-
Standing Seam Metal


1. Asphalt shingle roofing
Asphalt & composition shingle roofs are a wildly popular choice for homes in Tucson due to their aesthetic appeal and cost-effectiveness.
Now-a-days shingles come in a variety of tier levels which range depending on quality of the shingle, the color definition, flexibility, and the rating on wind and hail resistance.
Shingles already have a high tolerance to wind, but we live in a time where luxuries are available and premium shingles are worth looking into because of the headache you can avoid and peace of mind you'll gain when monsoon season strikes every year.

Installation of shingles
**Proper installation is extremely detrimental to ensuring the longevity and performance of the shingles. Not to mention, some manufacturers don't honor their warranty unless the installing contractor is registered and certified to install their products. It can't be stressed enough: who you hire is the most important part of the entire roof replacement process.
Most popular brands of shingle in Tucson:
-
Owen's Corning : Oakridge, Duration, & Cool Series Shingles
-
GAF : Timberline, HDZ, & UHDZ Shingles
-
Malarkey, IKO, & Certainteed

Types of Roof Tiles
There's a small plethora of tile roof material options for homeowners in Tucson and Southern Arizona.
Most common tile brands:
-
Eagle Roofing
-
Westlake Royal Roofing (form. Boral)
Discontinued tile brands:
-
Westile
-
Monier
-
U.S. Tile
-
Pioneer
If your home was built before 2008, it is very likely that your roof has a discontinued brand of tiles. Over the years, manufacturers have been buying each other out and adopting / combining tile designs. The color may be completely discontinued; but the design will always be around.

2-Piece clay tiles installed over new premium underlayment.

Cement S tiles installed over new premium underlayment.
Tile Roof Underlayment Replacement
It can't be stressed enough: the most vital waterproofing component of your tile roof system lies in the underlayment product that goes directly over the plywood. This is sometimes referred to as a "vapor barrier". Most homebuilders install the bare minimum, (1) layer of 40 lb. felt paper that is fastened onto your decking. This felt paper can do the job for about 10-15 years before it should be replaced.
Depending on your goals, you have options when it comes to replacing your tile roof's underlayment. For instance, if you're going to be keeping your home for a long while, you may want to seek a more permanent 30+ year self-adhered underlayment v.s. using brittle felt paper that's likely there now.
Tile Roof Underlayments:
How long do they last in Tucson / Southern Arizona?
10-15 Years
-
(1) layer 40lb felt underlayment
This is the most common underlayment that is on about 95% of all tile homes in Tucson.
30+ Years
-
Premium Synthetic / Hybrid underlayment
-
Premium Self-adhered High Temperature underlayment
15-25 Years
-
(2) layers of premium 40+ lb felt underlayment
-
Synthetic / Hybrid underlayment
-
Self-adhered fleece back underlayment


3. Metal Roofing
Discover the elegance of metal roofing panels that I offer, designed to bring both style and function to your home. While there are many options on the market, understand that quality and price differs immensely depending on the type of metal roofing panels you choose. For instance, if you're in the market for a lifetime metal roofing system in Tucson, then standing seam panels are for you. If you're in the market solely for curb appeal and you're ok with routine maintenance, then more affordable panels are available such as: pbr ribbed metal panels, corrugated roofing panels, and even metal roofing shingles. These exposed fastener systems would not be as watertight as standing seam roofs in Tucson, but they look just as sharp.
Remember:
Just like any roof system, the roofing contractor in Tucson you hire is the most vital aspect of your roofing project.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
A series of panels interlock every 12"-18" creating a series of ribs that form the system known as standing seam roofing. Online exposed fastener (screw-down) metal roof panels, standing seam roofs are designed for the metal to expand and contrast (breathe) freely, which leads to a much longer lifespan and very low maintenance costs.
Lifespan: 40+ years (depending on material quality)
Warranty: 30-50 Years on Kynar paint finish (watertightness depends on the manufacturer you choose and the Tucson roofer that installs it)
When to buy: If you're in the market for a permanent metal roof system, meaning you likely won't ever touch your roof again, then this is the system for you. However, be prepared to spend a bit more than most other roof systems in Tucson. Standing seam roof systems tend to rank toward the top of the list of most expensive roof systems available.

Unlike traditional roof materials and when properly installed, standing seam panels are designed to withstand even the harshest monsoon storms in Tucson. Standing seam metal roofs should be installed with absolutely ZERO exposed fasteners to the roof system. The panels should be attached to the decking using manufacturer-matching clips and not directly affixed to the deck in any way. Remember, these systems should be able to breathe with your Tucson home and not fight any screws that prevent this.
Advantages:
-
Extremely durable, can last a lifetime
-
Many different Kynar finish options
-
Raises curb appeal, literally w/ smooth standing seam lines
-
Very minimal maintenance
Disadvantages:
-
Can be very costly, typically 3x the cost of asphalt shingle roofing
-
Requires much more skill to install & takes longer
-
Potential for oil-canning
-
Noise during heavy rains

Ribbed Panel Metal Roofing
Exposed fastener / ribbed panel roof systems are a bit more affordable than standing seam panels. Examples of ribbed roof panels include: corrugated roof panels, PBR roof panels, PBU roof panels, and more. Because these panels rely solely on exterior-grade fasteners to hold them down, this prevents the system from properly expanding and contrasting. This means the panels will fight the fasteners throughout Tucson's warm, dry climate.
Lifespan: 20-30 years (depending on material quality)
Warranty: 20 Years on Kynar paint finish (watertightness depends on the manufacturer you choose and the Tucson roofer that installs it)
When to buy: If you're in the market for a good looking roof, but can't don't have the budget for a standing seam roof, then you may want to explore these more affordable metal roof systems available in Tucson and Southern Arizona.

Top 3 Flat Roof Systems in Tucson
Flat Roofs in Southern Arizona
If you're a resident of Tucson, there's about a 50% chance your home has a flat roof with elastomeric coating on it. Part of the Southern Arizona charm that we can all grow to admire, is in the architecture of our homes and commercial properties. When dealing with low slope / flat roofs in Tucson (usually below 2:12 slope) your options for roofing materials become quite restricted.
The Top 3 Flat Roofs in Tucson are:
-
Built Up Roofs
-
Spray Foam Roofs (SPF)
-
TPO Roofs


1. Built-Up Roofing
Built up roofing consists of layering several plies of roof membranes before topping it all off with reflective roof coating. These layers work together to create a durable, weather resistant barrier that can withstand years worth of Southern Arizona's storms.
These roofs can be installed several different ways, with the most popular being via asphalt hot tar mop method. Tucson is one of the few markets globally that still installs built-up roofing when other, more beneficial options are available today. This could widely be because built-up roofing in Tucson tends to be the most affordable flat roof option, still.
Advantages:
-
Can last 30+ years when properly maintained
-
Can be restored at least once before needing to replace
-
Energy efficiency, when properly maintained
Disadvantages:
-
Needs routine maintenance / re-coating every 6-10 years
-
Not very flexible - tends to crack
-
Relies heavily on reflective roof coating
-
No membrane warranties

2. Cement / Clay Tile Roof Systems
Tile roofs make up about 40% of the pitched roofing systems in Tucson, AZ. Tiles, clay or cement, can never be installed directly over your home's decking / substrate.
Unlike asphalt shingles, clay or cement roofing tiles are not the main waterproofing component of the system, even though each tile interlocks/overlaps one another.These roof systems require a durable vapor barrier, referred to as the underlayment: this is arguably the most vital component to maintaining watertightness on your tile roofing system.
Spray Foam Roofing (SPF)
Spray foam roofs will only last their intended lifespan when they're installed by the right Tucson roofer. It is very difficult to install / hand-spray a leveled and/or tapered level of spray foam roofing. Sometimes new issues can be created by failing to properly install SPF roof systems.
Pro Tip: Choosing a high performance elastomeric roof coating can not only extend the lifespan of your roof system, it can also lead to less maintenance coats throughout the years.


3. TPO Roofing
TPO roof systems are single-ply membranes that are arguable the most flexible on the market. TPO roofs in Tucson are most popular on commercial buildings built after 2010. This product is not more popular on the residential roofing market because it is a more sophisticated installation when compared to installing a built up roof or spray foam roof.
What's the biggest advantage to TPO roofing in Tucson? For starters, you don't need to coat it at all for the life of the materials. This means you'd save thousands on roof coating and maintenance over the lifespan of your TPO roof system. Secondly, we mention this is the most flexible roof membrane out there, this is important because your home / building in Tucson expands and contrasts quite a bit through the seasons, TPO roofing is ideal for our Southern Arizona climate.
Cement Tile Roofing
Cement Roofing Tiles are designed to last a century. Cement tile roofs are typically elevated and locked/fastened onto batten furring strips that are attached over the underlayment. For cement tile roofs, the first and last several rows must be individually fastened, with only every other seeing nails throughout the field.
When your cement tile roof begins to leak, this does not mean that you must replace every single tile. Remember, the tiles themselves can last you 100 years. If you're experiencing a leaking tile roof, the attention must be shifted to replacing your roof's underlayment.
Clay Tile Roofing
Clay tiles share the same energy efficiency and projected lifespan as cement tiles. Though clay is a little more brittle than cement, most folks choose clay over cement because of aesthetics. Clay tiles are smoother and have a far more traditional look than cement. Clay tiles are not elevated onto battens like cement tiles, rather each and every tile must be fastened over the underlayment & decking.
Clay tile roofing will always be more expensive than cement tile roofing for two reasons: clay roofing material costs more than cement and the workmanship costs are higher because of the complexity of clay tile roofs.

TPO Roofing
TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin, which are the main chemical components of the material. This membrane also comes packaged in tight roll form, like other traditional roofing materials. TPO membrane thickness comes in a variety of mil thicknesses that range from 45Mil - 90Mil. TPO does come in different colors, but if you're in Tucson, perhaps consider to sticking to white or tan.
Advantages:
-
Low maintenance / no roof coating
-
Extremely flexible / elastic
-
Easy to repair
Disadvantages:
-
High costs (needs to be installed over insulation / fiberboard)
-
Takes sophisticated skill to install
-
Not as thick as other roof membranes
Upgrades That Add to Costs

Roof System Upgrades
Many Tucson roofers don't offer their customers more than an option or two. You should know that you have plenty of options when it comes to designing your new roof system for your Tucson home. Here's a list of roof system upgrades that your roofer in Tucson should be offering you:
Ultra-Premium Underlayment:
This is the ultimate / last line of defense when it comes to waterproofing your home. You have many options for underlayment that vary depending on warranty coverage and mil thickness.
Skylights:
Skylights help reduce your energy costs by allowing natural light to enter your home in lieu of a cable-wired light. If you've ever wanted a new skylight it's best installed when your replacing your roof.
Premium Flashings:
Most homeowners stick with the most commonly used roof flashings in galvanized or pre-finished metal. You can upgrade to a thicker gauge metal and/or copper metal for your Tucson roof flashings.
Standing Seam Metal Accents:
This is becoming a popular roof upgrade for homes in Tucson. You can improve your home's curb appeal by installing metal accent roofs on patios, bay windows, & specialty pop-outs.
Gutter Guards:
Monsoon storms blow debris & trees shed right into your gutters. Your gutters will collapse if they are clogged and willed with debris + water. You can add gutter guards to prevent constant gutter maintenance.
Roof Vents:
Your existing vents will always be replaced. Most Tucson roofs have "T-top" flashing vents of some sort. There are much better options out there that come backed with watertightness warranties.
Cool Roof Upgrades:
Improving your roof's solar reflectivity and/or roof ventilation system can lead to extraordinary efficiency results. Whether your Tucson home has a flat roof or pitched roof, there are always ways to make your entire home benefit from the results of a new roof.

Roofing company overhead
These are the (growing) costs that most roofing companies in Tucson need to worry about in order to stay in business and turn projects over. Each roofing company is run differently depending on leadership and local/non-local ownership structure. Some of these overhead costs include:
-
General liability insurance (GL)
-
Worker's compensation insurance (WC)
-
Vehicle / equipment maintenance, fuel, & insurance
-
Office and material yard
-
Employee training & continued education
-
Employee payroll & taxes
-
State & local licensing / bonding
-
Federal & state / local taxes
-
Marketing & advertisements
What is a roof ventilation system?
Why roof ventilation matters
Your home in Tucson needs a good roof ventilation system to ensure that your home isn't suffocating and retaining heat when it gets hot. You may not feel it, but your home / building expands and contrasts (breathes). Without proper ventilation, your home and roof system cannot breathe effectively and therefore the materials tend to degenerate quicker because our blistering summers just cook the materials.
If your home is in the Tucson area, odds are your home can use a better roof mounted ventilation system. Homebuilders (pre-2012) didn't account for much ventilation except maybe a couple of "t-top' vents. Keep this in mind: most builders build for profit so shortcuts are taken in corners that most homeowner's won't know enough about.

Top 3 Benefits of Roof Mounted Ventilation

Heating & Cooling
If your roof system and attic/crawl space aren't breathing properly; this only adds additional strain and workload onto your HVAC unit(s). With proper roof ventilation, your home's temperature will be regulated with much more ease, adding relief your heating and cooling units, as well as your wallet.
Overall Cost Efficiency
You may end up spending a little more upfront to upgrade your home's ventilation system, but it'll sure pay dividends in the long run. Electricity bills tend to skyrocket in the Tucson summers, because of how hard your AC unit needs to work to keep your home cool. Roof ventilation helps your AC out, saving you quite a bit when the right ventilation system is pieced together.
Roof Longevity
A Lifetime Roof system, can only last a lifetime if it's paired with the right ventilation system. Roof vents are extremely vital components to your entire roof system if you're looking to get the maximum lifespan out of it. Without good roofing ventilation, your roof materials will just cook themselves over the plywood at an accelerated rate, here in Tucson, AZ.
Roof Warranties
Types of Roof Warranties
Roofing Manufacturer Warranty
Warranties are all written differently, but roofing material manufacturers (like most producers) will warrant their product from defects. Manufacturer’s warranty typically covers both the roofing materials and underlayment for 15-50 years. But that is normally only the case if the contractor you hire is certified/registered with the manufacturer. Still, registered contractors can offer different levels of manufacturer’s warranty only when all components are made by the same manufacturer. We recommend that you read the manufacturer’s fine print because they each have their clauses and exemptions.
Most of the time exemption or exclusion of coverage hails from the contractor’s installation, not the product. The manufacturer will always lean towards declining / voiding your material warranty coverage if your contractor does not install the roof 100% per their specification. Roof maintenance is another vital aspect to maintaining all of your warranty coverages. Things like caulkings and other sealants do not last very long in the Arizona desert. Make sure you understand who and what covers what before you choose the roof system and contractor.

Types of Roof Ventilation
There are many options for improving the airflow / ventilation system of your home during your roof replacement. Here are just a few of the most common roof vents available in Tucson and Southern, AZ:

Ridge Vent
Ridge vents are some of the most cost effective ways to promote positive airflow in-through your roof's ridge. Available on pitched roof systems in Tucson like: Shingle and tile roofs
Gable Vent
If your home's roof is pitched and you have an attic / large crawl space, then gable vents are available which are installed on the exterior of your home to promote passive airflow to your roof system.

Louver / Off- Ridge Vent
Louver vents are weaved into your roof system to allow airflow regulation throughout the field areas of your roof system material. These vents could also be considered to be static roof vents.


Mechanical Vent
Mechanical vents, referred to commonly as: whirlybird vents, promote positive airflow using natural energy (wind) to regulate the temperature in your roof's crawl / attic space.
Powered Vent
Powered roof vents use your home's electricity or solar power to power the fan system that creates positive airflow into your desert home's roof system and attic space.


Types of Roof Warranties
What is a Lifetime Warranty?
Lifetime refers to the projected lifespan of the materials. For instance, most laminate shingles come with a lifetime warranty (typically referring to 30-50 years). You should know that most come with a contingency that has a specified non-prorated period that typically only lasts 8-12 years. After that, you’ll lose a portion of your coverage, that’s determined by the age of the shingles. (This is another reason you need to carefully read the warranty in its entirety.)
Types of Roof Warranties
No Dollar Limit Warranties (NDL)
This is the ultimate umbrella of roof warranty coverages. NDL warranties will typically cover both materials and labor, assuming full responsibility and paying for 100% of all costs associated with repairing / replacing your roof system with no dollar limits. This warranty is the most comprehensive (but expensive) type of coverage you can purchase when paired with the right roofing system. This is only possible if the installing contractor is a master / certified installer with the product’s manufacturer.

Financing Your Roof
Worried about paying for your roof?
There are many ways to obtain reasonable term and payment options by way of financing your roof replacement. If you're in need of a new roof, but are worried about paying for it, then perhaps financing is best for you.
Contractor financing
Most reputable roof contractors should offer financing to their customers. Sometimes contractors can offer promotional interest rates that vary depending on their lending partners. It's worth exploring the finance programs that your Tucson roofer has to offer. *Never disclose personal information like SSN/Income information to anyone but the finance partners of your roof contractor.

The Re-Roofing Process
1. Roof Tear Off
Before the new roof can be installed, the old one must come off. This is the messiest part of your roof replacement project. The old roof literally get's scraped and torn-off. Either a rolloff container will be in your front yard, or your roofer may park a large dump trailer in lieu of a waste container. It's recommended that you avoid walking around your home's perimeter during this process. Be careful with any pets, as hundreds / thousands of nails are being clawed out of your old roof system.
*The only exception to this is when you have a single-layer roof system and elect for what is referred to as a roof-over or overlay.


2. Decking Inspection & Repairs
The biggest mystery going into your Tucson roof replacement project lies in knowing how much plywood is going to need to be replaced. You should never install a new roof system over soft or damaged structural components. Your contractor should disclose what the costs are to replace OSB / Plywood decking and include a price per linear foot for replacement of fascia / eave lumber. If you're not home, make sure to ask for photos of all the structural repairs to your roof, before they cover it up with your new roof.
3. New Roof Installation
When your decking is ready, the new roof system will start getting installed. This process will vary depending on the type of roof you have. But overall the process is pretty universal: unless you're installing a spray foam roof, you will likely have a base membrane or underlayment installed over the decking before the finishing roof material is installed.
It is vital to understand the specific roof system that you have chosen to go with. Whether you're converting your roof into something new or replacing like-for-like. Tucson is home to a plethora of different type of roof systems. Do your homework on the product, starting with the manufacturer and their resources.


4. Clean-Up
If your roofing project takes more than one day to complete, your contractor should be cleaning up at the end of every day. It is not uncommon to have scraps of waste & excess loose nails around the perimeter of your home during the re-roofing process. Ultimately, roof replacement is one of the messiest home improvement projects; but that should be no excuse for roof contractor clean up.
To catch all of those loose nails from your roof replacement, a magnet sweep should be performed around the permitter of your entire home. Excess materials will be collected and hauled away with all of the waste created by the project.
5. Final Walkthrough / Proof of Completion
A reputable roofing contractor should schedule a final walkthrough or at least send you a report with proof of completed roofing work. This is a great opportunity to request any alterations to your roof system and discuss any other issues or concerns you may have regarding your roof.
*Most roofers in Tucson tend to get really busy during monsoon season. For faster service, we'd recommend you look into replacing your roof in the Tucson area from Fall - Spring.

Roof Warranties
Things That Are Never Covered Under Warranty
Potential harm to the integrity of your home or its belongings
Natural disasters (earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricane)
Storm related damages like: severe wind/hail
Damage caused by fire
Damaged caused by sitting water
Lack of care / maintenance
Inadequate crawl / attic ventilation
Incorrectly installed solar panels / any other roof mounted equipment
Damages caused by foot traffic / other contractors
Hiring a Great Roofer
How do I find a great roofing contractor?
The key choice you'll face when replacing your roof, is in choosing the right roofing contractor. To ensure you make an informed decision, it's essential to know how to identify a great roofing contractor among the many roofers in your area.
A Few Things to Look Out For:
-
Ask the right questions
-
Recommendations from neighbors/friends
-
Look at reviews
-
Only consider local roofers


Hiring a Great Roofer
Only consider local roofers
You should only consider roofers that are local to you. If you're in the Tucson area, your roofer should have a phone number with a 520 area code and should have a local office / yard in town. You shouldn't need to pack a suitcase to visit your roofing contractor in-person, should you need to. If you're in the Tucson area, it is not uncommon for roofing companies from Phoenix to come down whenever a bad storm rolls through. Even an office that's two hours away can pose in inconvenience to you in times of needed service and maintenance. There are many great Tucson roofers to choose from, keep it local!
Look at reviews
Now-a-days, finding customer reviews on your roofing contractor is extremely easy. Sites like Google, Facebook, Nextdoor, Home Advisor, & Yelp are great ways for you to read customer reviews. It's important to not only assess the overall star rating of your contractor; but consider the interactions and responses from the roofing contractors.

2. Spray Foam Roofing (SPF)
Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is made up of two main chemical components: isocyanates and polyols: when combined these two substances are mixed & sprayed onto your roof substrate or surface, forming a rigid insulating foam. This foam adheres to all roofing surfaces, creating an airtight and moisture-resistant barrier.
Spray foam roofs don't have any seams which means for far less chances of leaking and they provide your entire home with insulation. For every 1" of spray foam roofing, your home gets about 6 "R" insulation values. To learn more about spray foam roofing from a trusted contractor in Tucson.
Advantages:
-
Can last 30+ years when properly maintained
-
Increases home's insulation, decreases energy bills
-
Can be restored at least twice before needing to replace
-
Can be roofed-over, meaning you don't always need to remove it
Disadvantages:
-
Needs routine maintenance / re-coating every 5-10 years
-
Relies heavily on reflective roof coating
-
No membrane warranties
Important Things To Remember:
Ask all roofing contractors you're considering for proof of: License, Bonding, & Insurance information.
If your roofing contractor can't furnish documentation / proof of all three (Licensed, Bonded, Insured) then you should not consider hiring them to replace your roof, unless you want to assume 100% of the liability involved with a roofing project.
Hire a local roofer that offers long-lasting roofing solutions.
A reputable contractor that is proud of their work will stand by their work. This should reflect with the amount of workmanship warranty they offer you. Most roofers in Tucson will offer anywhere between 2-5 years workmanship warranties on completed replacements. Find a roofing contractor that is willing to warrant their work for at least 10 years, if not for the lifetime of the materials.
Types of Roof Warranties
Contractor Workmanship Warranty
A workmanship warranty can only be honored by the contractor you hired to perform the work. Depending on the contractor, this may not be transferrable to the next homeowner. This warranty is typically exclusive between the contractor and homeowner. This usually covers all defects in relation to workmanship. Workmanship warranties should cover any/all materials used during the install, waste, and all labor associated with providing warranty repairs for workmanship defects.
Arizona state law enforces that contractors shall warrant their work for an only the first 2 years after the install. Once you’re past the 2 years, homeowners don’t have much grounds to legally pursue an absent contractor. It matters who you hire. Let’s put it this way... If you’re not entirely confident that your contractor will do the job right the first time... They likely won’t do the job right the first time. And, remember, if the job isn’t done right: then you might not have a manufacturer’s warranty either.

6. Roof Maintenance
No matter how new your roofing system is, maintenance is a non-optional if you want to remain in good standings with all warranty coverages. Like our vehicles, our homes also require routine maintenance to maximize the life of our home's building components. A reputable contractor should offer you options to maintain your roof system, should you be physically incapable of doing this maintenance work yourself. This would likely come at an additional cost.
A few important roof maintenance highlights:
-
Cleaning of all debris from roof + gutters
-
Checking on joints and sealants
-
Simply inspecting the roof twice per year

Hiring a Great Roofer
Recommendations from friends / neighbors
Another effective method for locating a roofing contractor is to consult your friends and neighbors who have recently had work done. Inquire about their experiences, whether positive or negative. Recommendations from people you know and trust carry significant value, as they provide insights based on personal relationships.
Ask the right questions
Once you've identified a few potential roofing contractors, it's essential to ask the right questions during your meetings. This process will help you select a trustworthy contractor who will complete the job correctly. Be sure to download this Checklist of 16 Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor, so you are ready to make an informed hiring decision.




