Roofing Services

New roof costs in Schenectady typically range from $8,000-$25,000 for residential homes. Small roofs (1,000-1,500 sq ft) with basic architectural shingles cost $8,000-$12,000. Medium roofs (1,500-2,500 sq ft) cost $12,000-$18,000. Large or complex roofs (2,500-3,500 sq ft) with premium materials cost $18,000-$25,000+. Factors include roof size, pitch, complexity, shingle quality, and extent of decking repairs needed.

Most residential roof replacements in Schenectady take 2-4 days total. Simple roofs (ranch, cape) are completed in 1-2 days of actual work. Complex roofs with multiple dormers, valleys, or skylights take 2-3 days. Weather delays, material delivery, permits, and inspections can extend the overall timeline to 1-2 weeks from start to finish.

Asphalt shingle lifespan in Upstate NY varies by quality: 3-tab shingles last 15-20 years, architectural shingles last 25-30 years, and premium/designer shingles last 30-50 years. Actual lifespan depends on installation quality, ventilation, maintenance, sun exposure, and weather extremes. Harsh winters with ice dams can reduce lifespan by 20-30% if ventilation is inadequate.

Yes, roof replacement requires a building permit in Schenectady, Albany, Saratoga, and most Upstate NY municipalities. Permits ensure work meets current building codes, wind resistance requirements, and fire ratings. We handle all permit applications, inspections, and approvals. Permit costs typically range from $150-$500 depending on project scope and municipality.

Replace if: roof is 20+ years old, has widespread damage, multiple leaks, curling/missing shingles throughout, granule loss, or you're selling soon. Repair if: roof is under 15 years old, damage is localized (small leak, storm damage to one area), and overall condition is good. If repair costs exceed 30% of replacement cost, replacement is usually better value.

Best roofing materials for Upstate NY climate: Architectural asphalt shingles (most popular, 25-30 year life, good value, $120-250/square), metal roofing (40-70 year life, excellent for snow shedding, energy efficient, $300-900/square), and synthetic slate/shake (luxury appearance, 50+ year life, lightweight, $400-800/square). All must be rated for high wind and ice dam resistance.

Ice dam prevention requires: proper attic insulation (R-38 to R-60 in Upstate NY), adequate ventilation (1 sq ft vent per 150 sq ft attic space), sealed air leaks from house to attic, ice and water shield on eaves (extending 3-6 feet inside exterior walls), and ridge vent with soffit vents for airflow. These keep roof deck cold to prevent snow melt and refreezing.

Technically yes, but we don't recommend it. Most building codes allow maximum 2 layers total. Installing over existing shingles: hides decking damage, adds weight stressing structure, shortens new shingle lifespan by 20%, voids some manufacturer warranties, and makes future replacement more expensive. Complete tear-off is best practice - lets us inspect and repair decking.

Roof pitch affects drainage, snow shedding, material options, and cost. In Upstate NY, 4:12 to 8:12 pitch is most common (4-8 inches of rise per 12 inches of run). Low pitch (2:12 to 4:12) requires special underlayment and limits material choices. Steep pitch (8:12+) sheds snow well but increases labor costs 15-30%. Your home's architecture typically dictates pitch.

Roof ventilation is critical in Upstate NY. Proper ventilation: prevents ice dams by keeping roof deck cold, extends shingle life by reducing heat buildup (attics can reach 150°F in summer), prevents moisture/mold in attic, reduces cooling costs 10-25%, and is required by building code. Optimal system combines ridge vent with soffit vents for continuous airflow.

Ice and water shield is a self-adhering waterproof membrane installed under shingles in vulnerable areas. In Upstate NY, it's ESSENTIAL (and code-required) on: eaves extending 3-6 feet inside exterior walls (prevents ice dam leaks), valleys, around chimneys/skylights, and roof penetrations. It's your last line of defense against water infiltration during ice dams and wind-driven rain.

Choose shingle colors based on: home exterior color (brick, siding, stone), architectural style (traditional vs modern), neighborhood norms, resale considerations (neutral colors appeal to more buyers), and climate (light colors reflect heat, dark absorb heat). Popular Upstate NY choices: charcoal, weathered wood, slate gray, and earth tones. We provide samples to view on your home.

Insurance covers roof damage from covered perils (wind, hail, fire, falling trees) but not wear and tear or age-related deterioration. If storm damage, file a claim immediately - adjuster will inspect and determine coverage. Many policies have depreciation clauses for roofs 15+ years old. Some insurers require replacement at 20 years or drop coverage. Always review your policy.

Best time: Late spring through early fall (May-October) when temperatures are 40-85°F. Shingles seal properly in warm weather. Avoid: Winter (December-February) - cold makes shingles brittle and prevents proper sealing. Early spring and late fall work if temperatures cooperate. Summer (July-August) is peak season - book early. We work year-round with weather-appropriate techniques when needed.

Signs of damaged decking: sagging roof areas, water stains on ceiling/walls, daylight visible through attic roof, soft/spongy spots when walking on roof, and visible rot or mold on decking. We inspect all decking during tear-off and replace damaged sections with new 1/2" or 5/8" plywood or OSB. Typical homes need 10-30% decking replacement - we provide transparent pricing when discovered.