Frequently Asked Questions

General

Can Able Roof help with insurance claims?

Yes. Our company has relationships with all of the major insurance carriers. We can always negotiate on your behalf during claims, with your best interest in mind.

Will Able Roof provide a warranty on repairs?

All of our work comes with a written warranty, regardless of the type of work. Is there a difference between the roofer’s warranty and the manufacturer’s warranty? Yes! At Able Roof, there is no gap in the coverage of our premium products. We stand behind your roof 100%, for as long as you live in your home.

Does Able Roof offer financing?

Yes. We offer a wide array of roof financing options with approved credit. We also offer financing for our other services, such as siding, windows, exterior doors, masonry, gutters, and insulation.

If someone gets hurt on my property during installation, is there a possibility that I can be sued?

In any contracting job, there is always that possibility. That is why it is extremely important to hire a reputable company with proper insurance. At Able Roof, we carry all necessary insurance and bonding to keep you protected, and we can provide proof of this prior to beginning any job.

How long has Able Roof been in business?

We have satisfied over 300,000 customers in Columbus, Ohio and the surrounding areas since 1986.

What will happen if it rains during the installation process?

Our team is responsible for protecting your home from rain and inclement weather during installation. We take all necessary precautions to protect your home from rain and inclement weather.

Do you charge for quotes or estimates?

No. Phone consultations and estimates are free and carry no obligation.

What information do you need from me to start?

On the phone, we want to understand your project goals. Once we arrive at your home, we'll take measurements and explore your options with you.

How long will my project take to complete?

Most roof replacements and vinyl siding is done in a day. For windows, it depends on how many. We try to complete work in a day to minimize interruption to your life.

Will sales people come to my home?

A Project Consultant will come to your home to to take measurements, review your options, and put together a detailed quote on the spot. We’ll answer any questions to help you decide if we’re the right fit for your project.

Does the Able Roof "for a long as you live in your home" warranty apply to both materials and labor?

We take 100% accountability. We stand behind our premium roof products – this means if anything fails, we’ve got you covered.

Does 3D visualization cost extra?

No. Through our partnership with HOVER, the 3D visualization technology is free to use. You will recieve a link after scheduling your estimation appointment.

I don't want to take pictures of my home, or I don’t have a smartphone: can someone take pictures for me?

Yes. Our Project Consultants are available to help you visualize your project using the Hover 3D visualization technology.

I want to take pictures of my home, but what if trees obstruct the view of my house?

You will recieve instruction as to how to best photograph your home. Trees and other obstructions are usually not an issue.

What is the cost of a new roof?

With our roof financing options, monthly payments are available. At Able Roof, we offer open book pricing. When you receive your free inspection, we will always be up front about our prices, and can provide you with a free estimate on the spot.

My insurance company turned down my claim, now what?

We can send a roof inspector to your home, free of charge, to survey the damage to your roof and give you an honest opinion and estimate. There is never any obligation to buy during our estimating process.

Are credit cards accepted?

Yes. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover.

Do I need to be home while the work is being done?

All of our roof and siding work is done on the exterior of your home. This means that you would not have to be home because we would not need to come inside. But if you'd like to, feel free. Our installers are licensed and insured so you don't have to worry.

Who will do the work for my project?

Factory-trained installers contracted by Able Roof will complete the work. They are insured and bonded.

How long will my project take to complete?

Most roof replacements and vinyl siding is done in a day. For windows, it depends on how many. We try to complete work in a day to minimize interruption to your life.

Roofing

What causes stains on my roof?

Roofing stains are commonly the cause of algae build up. This growth is typically predominant on the North and East-facing slopes, as there is less sun exposure there. Able Roofing has shingles are treated to resist this algae build up.

How can I tell if my home needs a new roof?

You can tell if your home needs a new roof or not by considering the age of the roof, it’s appearance, and whether or not there are leaks. Typical shingle roofs last approximately 12-20 years.

Will my homeowners insurance cover the cost of a new roof in the event of hail damage?

Yes. However, hail damage is subjective so there may be differing opinions about the extent and cost of the damage. Able Roofing is always willing to help with your claims to be sure that you get the most out of your insurance.

Can Able Roof truly install my roof in one day?

As professional and highly qualified roofing contractors, we can install your new roof within one day. This includes the tear off of your old roof, haul, new roof installation, and 100% of the clean up. And with Able Roof, efficiency is what makes us so effective. We will never compromise speed for quality – we’ve just perfected our system!

Do you offer different roofing systems and color schemes?

Of course! We are experts at helping homeowners choose aesthetically pleasing roofing styles. We can provide you with a wide array of options; and our estimators can provide samples for you to view during your free estimate. Visit our shingles and colors page to see all of your options.

What's the best time of year to replace my roof?

The best time to replace a roof is whenever you need it done. We replace and repair roofs all year round. We use custom shingles that are designed for installation year-round. Wintertime installation is actually complemented by a rubberized component of the shingle. So, regardless of the time of year, you’ll receive the same quality service and product.

During installation, do you use staples or nails?

We use specialized nails that prevent water from leaking into your home, unlike a regular smooth shank nail. Our "trident 3 fastener" has a barbed shank tech and three times the holding power of smooth shank nail.

Can you explain what an ice dam is?

An ice dam is the ridge of ice that forms along the edge of your roof. It often is the result of poor attic ventilation, and can cause interior leaks. Every roof we install is designed with this in mind, with layers of protection in place to prevent leakage.

Does Able Roof utilize ice guard?

Absolutely. But when it comes to ice dam leakage, we don’t stop there. Every single one of our newly installed roofs includes an underlayment, which will protect the entire roof from leakage caused by ice build up.

Do you recycle?

Definitely! In fact, we are the pioneers in shingle recycling. When we remove shingles from your roof, they are ground up and recycled for roadbed material.

Will a leak in my roof cause long-term damage?

A leaking roof will not only cause damage to your roofing system, but also to your home. If you notice leaks in your roof, you should have it inspected right away to avoid the growth of mold.
Note: At Able Roofing, all inspections are free of charge, with zero obligation.

Do I need to be home during the roof installation job?

Not at all. As professional roofing contractors, we will not need to enter your home at any time; therefore, you do not need to be home during the job.

Is there a chance that my landscaping can get damaged during roofing installation?

As professional roofing contractors, we work diligently to protect your yard during installation. We always use tarps; and when our job is complete, we run an industrial magnet roller through your yard as part of our clean up process.

How can hail damage a roof?

Hail can damage your roof by knocking the protective granules off of the roof shingles. This exposes the mat beneath to sunlight, which causes erosion of the shingles. Fortunately, hail damage to your roof is typically covered by your homeowners insurance policy. Note: At Able Roofing, we will always be willing to send a roofing inspector to your home to survey hail damage on your roof, free of charge.

Do missing shingles mean that I will eventually have leaks in my roof?

Yes. If you noticed damaged or missing shingles, you should always repair them right away to avoid further damage.

Is it true that a new roof can lower utility bills?

A new roof will not necessarily lower your utility bills, but a properly designed roof and ventilation system can. It will remove summer heat and winter humidity from your attic spaces, which will, in turn, lower your utility bills. Upon your request, Able Roofing can also inspect and provide an estimate for your attic ventilation installation.

You handle roofing repairs too?

Yes. Able Roofing can repair all kinds of roofing systems, including shingle, slate, tile, metal, and flat roofs.

Windows

What is a windows "U" value?

U-Value is the most common measurement used by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to measure the efficiency of a window. The U-Value measures the window assembly as a whole and its resistance to heat flow. The lower the number, the better.

How much do new windows typically cost?

Many factors determine the final cost of our window installation projects, such as the type of window and the window grades (“R” value, “U” value). However, the typical cost for replacing the windows in an entire house starts at $2,500.

What are the benefits to new windows?

With new windows, you’ll likely see increased energy efficiency, lowered utility bills, added comfort, better safety, and nicer and more modern aesthetics.

What is Able Roof's window warranty?

At Able Roof, we stand behind our products for as long as you live in your home. This warranty covers both labor and material – if it fails, you are covered! Visit our warranties page to read more.

Are there varying grades of windows offered by Able Roof?

Yes. At Able Roof, we offer a variety of options. Depending on your budget, we have options that can meet your needs. And our open book pricing means that there is no guessing. We’ll even send a windows installation estimator to your home in Columbus, Ohio and throughout the Central Ohio area.

Is there a minimum to window orders?

There is no minimum for orders, but for the free estimate to apply we'd like to look at at least two windows that need replaced.

What does energy star mean?

Energy Star is the internationally recognized standard for energy efficient consumer products, which was created by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy (DOE) in 1992.

Are your windows energy star rated?

Absolutely! We care about the environment and believe in saving you money on your heating and cooling bills. As such, all our windows come with an Energy Star rating.

Are Able Roof windows fusion welded?

Yes, all 3 of our window lines have fusion welded mainframes and sashes. This type of welding provides superior strength and aesthetics. Why not get the best

How much does Able Roof estimate that I can save in utility costs?

Depending on your lifestyle, savings will vary. However, our aim is to save you 49% on your energy usage if you were to install Able Roof windows and other energy saving products throughout your entire home.

Will Able Roof's new windows eliminate any carpet, furniture, and drapery fading in my home?

Yes. Low-e glass is designed to help eliminate—or at least greatly reduce—the amount of damage that can be associated with sun fade. At Able Roof, all of our windows are available with a low-e.

What does "low-e" mean?

Low-e stands for low-emittance. Low-e is a special coating put on glass that can “invisibly” reflect the sun’s rays. This process assists in blocking radiant heat transfer. All Able Roof windows are available with low-e.

What is argon when it comes to windows?

Argon is a specific type of gas that is used to fill the space between panes of glass in efficient windows. Argon gas is denser than oxygen; therefore, it offers insulating qualities.

What is krypton when it comes to windows?

In the world of windows and window installation, Krypton is not Superman’s home planet. It’s actually a gas used to fill the space between panes of glass in efficient windows. Krypton is denser than oxygen and argon. This means that it offers superior insulating qualities over both.

When is the best time of year to install new windows?

There is no time that is more ideal. Able Roof can install windows all year long.

I have storm windows, will I be able to keep them?

With our new windows, you will not need storm windows. Generally, our installers remove and discard of storm windows at the time of your new window installation.

Are Able Roof windows stock sizes or are they custom made?

At Able Roof, we would never try to make a stock window fit. Able Roof windows are custom made to the opening in your home, which ensures a perfect fit.

Does Able Roof also install exterior doors?

Yes! Able Roof has a selection of exterior doors to choose from. We can install any kind of exterior door, whether it is decorative front doors with sidelights, utility doors, and even patio sliding doors. Our estimators are happy to provide options and pricing.

Siding

Is there any way to make my siding maintenance free?

As a professional siding contractor, we come to your home with the ability to eliminate all wood surfaces requiring painting.

What types of siding are there?

As expert siding contractors, we install a variety of siding possibilities. Our options range from vinyl, composite, and cement, to solid core.

Can siding lower my home utility bills?

There are a number of ways that siding can help to lower your home’s utility bills. One way to achieve this is to have our siding professional blow insulation into your walls prior to siding installation. Additionally, or separately, a rigid insulation board can be installed prior to siding installation.

What is vinyl siding?

As the most popular siding material in the United States, vinyl siding is more than just plastic. Formulas and coloring have advanced, and vinyl siding simulates painted wood siding – except it will not rot or need to be painted.

Was is solid core siding?

Solid core siding is similar to vinyl siding. However, solid core siding is greatly enhanced with a solid insulated backer – which gives it more rigidity, positive insulating factors, and a wider exposure. Able Roof is a factory-certified solid core installer.

What is fiber cement siding?

Fiber cement siding is a thin plank. This type of siding is textured to simulate wood. The plank is actually made of a cementous material with a reinforcement mesh for strength. Once painted, fiber cement siding simulates painted wood siding.

What is composite siding?

Composite siding is similar to synthetic wood planks. This type of siding is becoming popular for outdoor decks. Composite siding simulates wood. It will not rot and does not need to be painted. And we should mention that Able Roof is a factory-certified composite siding installer.

Does siding require painting?

Vinyl siding, composite siding, and solid core siding DO NOT require painting. In fact, these types of siding are designed to never need painting. Fiber cement siding, however, requires painting initially, as well as paint maintenance throughout its life.

How much does new siding typically cost?

There are many factors that determine the final cost of our siding projects; however, they typically start at $2,500. Able Roof shares our open book pricing with you, to eliminate any mystery in our pricing guidelines. Upon your free inspection, we will be up front about our pricing and can provide you with a free estimate on the spot. (With siding financing, though, our monthly payments typically start at $49 for new siding installation.)

What is Able Roof's siding warranty?

When you purchase our premium siding products, we stand behind it for as long as you live in your home with a lifetime warranty. That means if it fails, you’re covered with Able Roof!

How long can new siding last?

All Able Roof siding products are designed to last a lifetime. Visit our warranties page to read more.

Is maintenance required on siding?

No. Typically, there is no maintenance involved with any of the siding products we offer. However, fiber cement will require painting throughout the years of its life. Able Roof can provide approximate life cycle pricing to help you make an intelligent decision.

How durable is new siding after installation?

Vinyl siding is very durable. However, in rare cases, it can crack (for example, if it is hit with large hail stones or a baseball bat, etc.) Solid core, composite, and fiber cement, however, are very durable and typically stand strong against Mother Nature and any other abuse.

When is the best time to install new siding?

Able Roof can install new siding during any time of the year. In fact, there is no “best time” to install new siding.

Can my plants and lawn become damaged during siding installation?

Able Roof takes pride in ensuring that we leave your property exactly as it was when we arrived – particularly when it comes to protecting your plants and shrubs. Before we begin any work, we put tarps down in your yard; and afterwards, we run an industrial magnet roller throughout your yard as part of the clean-up process, to assure no hidden rusty nails are left behind.

Which should be installed first, new windows or new siding?

The order of the installation process does not matter one bit. However, it does make a lot of sense to install both windows and siding together. Lucky for you, our contractors can provide you with plenty of options to get the job done. We are happy to provide you with an estimate and our professional opinion on moving forward with your home’s renovations (and, of course, our estimates—and opinions—are always free).

Should I install new gutters before installing new siding?

It all depends upon the materials in which you choose. If you intend to make your soffit and fascia board (the board behind your gutter and the overhang) maintenance free, then yes! Otherwise, the order will not matter. Our contractors are happy to provide you with all of the options that Able Roof has available. And since our pricing is open book, you will have everything that you need to make a decision in which you are comfortable with.

I have stucco on my home, can siding still be installed?

Yes. At Able Roof, our siding contractors can install new siding over your old stucco.

Does Able Roof offer vertical siding?

Yes. In fact, many of Able Roof’s siding installations are in a vertical profile.

How long will new siding installation take?

At Able Roof, we always consider the size of the job before determining the team in which we assign. Our goal is to ensure that you get a quality job that is done quickly and efficiently. That being said, a typical installation should not take more than a few days.

Masonry

What exactly is the chimney crown?

The chimney crown is the part of your chimney that protects and holds together the top portion. It is the large slab that covers the entire top of the chimney. It is common for your crown to be sloped in order to help shed water.

What types of masonry work is there?

Able Roof started out as a chimney repair business, serving Columbus Ohio and the surrounding areas. As professionally skilled masonry contractors, we are experts in chimney repair of all types; but we are more than that. Able Roof can also provide services including stucco, brick, block, and stone installation and repair, basement and foundation installation and repair, waterproof, patio and driveway pavers, and historical preservation and maintenance.

My Roof leaks around my chimney. What is to blame, the roof or the chimney?

It can be difficult to determine the cause of a leak without a thorough inspection. Since Able Roof handles both roof and chimney repair services, our masons can determine the cause for you. As an expert masonry contractor, our professional masonry team is trained to uncover the cause of a leak. And all of our inspections are free of charge!

Is the chimney crown important?

Chimney crowns are an important part of keeping moisture from ice, rain, sleet, or snow from entering the chimney cavity and entering your home. If water were to enter into the chimney cavity through a damaged or cracked crowns, it may cause damage to your entire home. Chimney crowns should be made of concrete, which is most resistant to moisture.

What type of damage can result from a cracked chimney crown?

If water were to enter the chimney during weather above freezing, it would eventually break down the mortar and cause extensive chimney damage. In the wintertime, the freeze-thaw effect can actually crack your chimney. Once water seeps into the chimney cavity, it will eventually find its way into your home and contribute more damage – and result in you needing costly repairs.

Is it possible to just add more cement to a cracked crown?

Would you add more cement over a cracked sidewalk? Eventually, the crack will reappear and it will be worse than it was before. If you need an expert masonry contractor, you can call Able Roof. We often use a special flexible crown compound that does not crack.

What do the masonry experts at Able Roof use to repair cracked crowns?

We traditionally use Crown Seal – a product that was developed specifically for crown repair. Crown Seal is a great product because it prevents the crown from cracking again, particularly due to its indefinite flexibility.

How will I know if I need a chimney crown repair?

You can call Able Roof to schedule an appointment. As expert masonry contractors, we will come to your home to conduct a free inspection. We can photograph the damage and explain the steps necessary to correct the situation. Remember, a little bit of maintenance goes a long way in saving you money in the future!

My Roof leaks around my chimney. What is to blame, the Roof or the chimney?

It can be difficult to determine the cause of a leak without a thorough inspection. Since Able Roof handles both Roof and chimney repair services, our masons can determine the cause for you. As an expert masonry contractor, our professional masonry team is trained to uncover the cause of a leak. And all of our inspections are free of charge!

What is a masonry chimney?

Any chimney made of masonry materials, such as brick, stucco, stone, or block, is considered a masonry chimney. The distinguishing factor: masonry is very porous and needs to be waterpRoofed.

Should my chimney be waterpRoofed?

Your chimney should be waterpRoofed as a preventative measure. Masonry is porous and water can seap into it and break down the mortar that holds your chimney together.

Is waterpRoof made of silicone?

Absolutely not. All that silicone does is coat the chimney – in some cases it can do more harm than good. Our waterpRoof is siloxane. This material penetrates deep into the masonry – which allows for it to breathe while still protecting against water infiltration.

Will waterpRoof change how my chimney looks?

Definitely not. Our waterpRoof is clear and will not change the look of your chimney at all.

How long does a chimney crown repair usually take?

Generally, a crown repair only takes a few hours. However, the time varies depending on the size of the chimney.

Should I repair my chimney at the same time that a new Roof, windows, or siding is installed?

With Able Roof, absolutely. We offer special rates for bundling packages.

Gutters

Do I really need to clean my gutters twice a year?

If you choose to have gutter guards, you shouldn’t need to clean them at all. If you don’t have gutter covers, you should at least check them twice a year, in the spring and the fall.

Do I need new gutters?

The experts at Able are happy to come out to your home and inspect your gutter system to see if you need new gutters. Gutters are an important part of a supportive Roof system, and because issues tend to get worse over time and impact other areas of your home, you’ll want to figure out whether your home needs new gutters as soon as possible.

How many downspouts do I really need?

Most gutter systems need a downspout every 20 to 30 feet. Depending on the slope of your roof and the rooflines, you may need more.

How does my gutter installer determine how to install my gutters?

Two things come into play with gutter installation: slope and support. The slope determines how easily rain will pour down the gutter. The support of the gutters is handled by gutter hangers, and the type of gutter and the climate in your area will determine how far apart the gutter hangers are spaced. Since Ohio has snow and ice, hangers can be as far as 36 inches apart.

Will my new gutters be the same color?

In most cases, yes. We can explore new colors if you would like, but typically we are able to find an exact color match without having to do any painting.

Insulation

When is the best time to replace attic ventilation?

The best time to repair or upgrade the correct balance of air flow/ventilation in your attic is when you install a new roof. A major indicator of the longevity of your roof is attic ventilation. As part of our free inspection, Able Roof can inspect your attic in order to see if new insulation makes sense for you.

What are the benefits to attic insulation?

You attic is designed to be a protective barrier for your home from cold, heat, and humidity. Having the proper insulation is the key to increasing the comfort of your home. It also saves you money and protects the environment by reducing energy use.

How long does it take to replace attic insulation?

Able Roof blown-in attic insulation can be done in one day.

What is R-value?

R stands for resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-Value, the greater the insulating power and resistance to heat flow. The R-Value that is used in your attic insulation depends on climate, and what you are insulating.

Why insulate an attic?

The attic is an important area to insulate because a significant amount of heat can be lost through the Roof without it. Increasing comfort and efficiency, attic insulation traps heat inside, and serves as the first line of defense when protecting against outdoor weather and temperatures.

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