Lost in the Dark No More - Page 3

BUILT-UP ROOFING

The three common flat-roof systems remaining fall under the built-up category: tar-and-gravel, torch-applied modified bitumen, and cap sheets.

Shelton Roofing, which has been installing residential reroofs on the Peninsula and in the South Bay for the past 80 years, continues to prefer the Eichlers' and Strengs' original roofing choice, tar-and-gravel, historically a more affordable reroofing option.

Compositional changes due to emission standards reportedly have impacted the durability of tar-and-gravel systems over the decades, so it's even more critical today that a quality installer with quality materials be involved in the mix.

"We like to install tar-and-gravel because Eichler roofs are flat, [oftentimes] hold water, and it's hard to slope them. Tar-and-gravel, we've discovered, is better suited to that scenario," says Shelton owner Paul Lawson. "Getting 15 to 20 years out of a tar-and-gravel roof is realistic."

Lawson does not feel as strongly about the modified and cap-sheet options as durable flat-roof solutions.

"Because most Eichlers are flat, the granulated surfacing of the modified-bitumen material does not hold up well with ponding water. Same for the cap-sheet roof," he says. "However, if a homeowner's roof has a slight pitch, and you know the water is going to drain, then it's fine."

Lawson indicates the average price for the three built-up systems ranges from $8 to $9.50 per square foot.

SELECTING & ESTIMATING

Arbunich recommends that, once homeowners have appraised all the available flat-roof systems, it is best to pinpoint the system that matches their preferences, needs, and budget before interviewing installers and getting estimates. "Once you're focused on one roofing system, you will then truly be able to compare apples to apples," he says.

The initial phase of estimating these days may be easier than you think. Covid and Google technology actually have come together in recent years to bring about a technique that quickly expedites the reroofing estimating process, Abril's Rick Abril points out.

Zeroing in on a homeowner's address on Google Earth, "I can get a measurement there with 99 percent accuracy, which makes life easier for us, and the customer," he says. Instant preliminary estimate.

"That satellite technology is now a big trend in roofing and solar system estimating, for sure," he says.

Before selecting your installer, you'll want to thoroughly research company warranties; check licenses, workers compensation, bond, and complaint status with the California Contractors State License Board (cslb.ca.gov); check in with the Eichler Network; and evaluate online customer reviews (including Yelp; and perhaps ask installers about negative reviews).

Lastly, make sure to talk with your neighbors. In Eichler neighborhoods, good news (and good reviews) travels fast, but not as fast as bad news and bum reviews.

A quality installer should also be up-to-date on current codes and changing laws.