Roof Assessments Services in Massachusetts

They can be! Icicles are a sign of ice dams that can cause water to run back under the shingles and damage your home.   Our quality inspection will catch this and offer options for remediation.

Call us promptly and we can discuss options. A roof can be a dangerous place (especially when wet!).  Let Master Roof expert roofers guide you through the options to keep you and your home safe!

Yes. You need to remove all old layers before installing the new system. Here are links for a better understanding the roofing system or a more general article on roofing materials. 

Yes we are. We are a fully certified company, ready to provide proof of licensing and insurance to safeguard your property, your family, and our team's well-being, along with our equipment and vehicles.

Yes. We will help you navigate the often complex discussions with insurance companies after a claim to ensure all are treated fairly.

Yes, there are a variety of solutions to help you control the amount of light and heat your skylight offers throughout the day. Contact us today and we will be happy to discuss options.

It is recommended you have your roof inspected for damage prior to filing a claim with your insurance. Our inspection will help guide you through the process.

A deductible is the part of a bill that your insurance does not cover.  So if your deductible is $500, you must pay the first $500 for the repair and your insurrance will cover the rest.

Having your contractor present during the adjuster's visit is wise, as they can help the adjuster accurately identify all damages, given adjusters might not be roofing experts.

In Massachusetts, roofing laws and regulations are primarily governed by the Massachusetts State Building Code, specifically under 780 CMR (the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Regulations), which includes detailed provisions for roofing:

Permits: A permit is required for any roofing work, including replacements or major repairs. This ensures that all work adheres to state and local codes.

Underlayment: 

For slopes of 4:12 or greater, one layer of underlayment is mandated. 

For slopes between 2.5:12 and 4:12, at least two layers are required, with specific installation methods to prevent water infiltration.

For lower slopes or in areas prone to ice damming, self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen underlayment or multiple layers of underlayment might be required as an ice barrier, extending at least 24 inches inside the exterior wall line.

Roofing Materials: The code specifies minimum standards for materials that can be used, ensuring they meet certain fire resistance and durability criteria. Asphalt shingles, for example, must comply with ASTM standards.

Ventilation: Adequate roof ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or structural issues. 

Insulation: While not directly a roofing law, proper insulation under the roof is often linked with roofing regulations to ensure energy efficiency, which indirectly affects roofing performance and longevity.

Contractor Licensing: While not explicitly a "roofing law", contractors in Massachusetts must be registered Home Improvement Contractors (HIC) for any home improvement work, which includes roofing. This ensures that they meet certain business practices and consumer protection standards.

Local Regulations: In addition to statewide laws, municipalities might have additional or more stringent regulations, especially in historical districts or cities like Boston, where older building stock might require specific preservation measures.

Insurance Considerations: While not law, insurance companies might have additional requirements or influence practices through coverage stipulations, like requiring a certain type of roof or age limit for coverage against wind damage, as seen in user posts regarding Citizens Insurance in Florida, though Massachusetts might not have identical laws, the principle of insurance considerations affecting roofing decisions applies broadly.

Historical or Specific Building Codes: For historical buildings or structures in certain areas, there might be unique regulations concerning roofing materials or methods to preserve the architectural heritage, though this would be more case-specific.

A roof inspection is a thorough assessment of a roof's condition, materials, and components, while a roof assessment can include a five-year forecast and recommendations for maintenance.

Here are the most important steps to take after storm damage: carefully inspect your roof from the ground. Look for signs of visible damage, such as missing or damaged shingles or other roofing materials, dents, or fallen branches. If available, use binoculars to get a closer look. And as soon as possible, contact Master Roof or another contractor for a professional inspection of the entire roof. Click here for a comprehensive list of action items. 

Your Roofing Contractor should: 

  - be licensed and insured

  - be local

  - have good reviews

  - have good communication

  - should provide a thorough inspection

  - should give you a detailed estimate

  - should charge a fair price

According to section R905 of the Massachusetts State Building Code 780R, homeowners are allowed no more than two layers of asphalt shingles on their roof. Additional layers add too much weight to the structure, making it prone to roof collapse.

For a simple roof with asphalt shingles, the cost per square foot can range from $4 to $6 per square foot. With a square footage of 1,500, the total cost would be between $6,000 and $9,000. For a complex roof installing standing seam metal, the cost per square foot can range from $12 to $19.

Questions about roofer experience and background

What types of roofing jobs do you enjoy?

What was your worst experience as a roofer?

What do you enjoy about roofing?

What is the steepest roof on which you've worked?

Are you comfortable carrying shingles up a ladder?

What was the most difficult roofing job you ever did?

Fall

Fall. Fall is the universal go-to season for roof replacement. With spring's mild temperatures and early summer's weather consistency, fall is commonly referred to as the best time of year to replace your roof.