Frequently Asked Questions

Preferred Contractors meet Owens Corning's standards for licensing, insurance, business practices, and product knowledge. This designation ensures access to extended warranty options and demonstrates commitment to manufacturer-approved installation methods. Homeowners gain additional protection and recourse through the manufacturer relationship.

Albuquerque receives intense year-round UV radiation at higher elevation, which breaks down asphalt shingle granules faster than in lower-altitude or cloudier climates. Shingles rated for high UV resistance and proper attic ventilation help counteract this accelerated aging. Expect standard shingles to show wear 15-20% faster here than manufacturer estimates based on moderate climates.

Inadequate attic airflow traps heat exceeding 150°F in summer, warping decking and cooking shingles from below. Poor ventilation also causes moisture accumulation during winter temperature swings. Ridge vents combined with soffit intake create continuous airflow that reduces attic temperatures by 30-40 degrees and prevents condensation damage.

Roofs over 20 years old with multiple leak points, widespread shingle curling, or granule loss across more than 30% of the surface typically cost more to patch repeatedly than replace. If repair costs exceed 40% of replacement cost or you're planning to sell within five years, full replacement makes better financial sense.

Inspections assess shingle condition, flashing integrity, ventilation function, and drainage systems for hail dents, wind-lifted shingles, and granule loss. Inspectors check both visible surface damage and hidden issues like decking moisture or compromised underlayment. Documentation includes photos and condition reports needed for insurance claims or maintenance planning.

Skylight leaks usually originate from flashing failures, not the skylight itself. Proper installation requires step flashing integrated with roofing layers and a separate drainage plane that channels water around the opening. Velux skylights include factory-designed flashing kits engineered for specific roof pitches, which eliminate common installation gaps.

Solar panels require structurally sound decking, shingles with at least 10 years of remaining lifespan, and adequate ventilation to prevent heat-related efficiency loss. Replacing the roof before solar installation avoids the cost of panel removal and reinstallation later. Structural assessments verify rafter spacing and load capacity meet solar mounting requirements.

Flat roofs rely on membrane integrity and drainage since water doesn't shed by gravity. New Mexico's temperature swings cause expansion and contraction that stress seams and flashings. Ponding water from inadequate drainage accelerates UV and thermal damage. Inspections every six months catch small issues before membrane failure requires full replacement.

Wind speeds exceeding 50 mph lift shingle edges, crack sealant bonds, and displace flashing around chimneys and vents. Check for missing or creased shingles, exposed nail heads, and granules collecting in gutters. Damage may not leak immediately but creates entry points where future storms drive water beneath the roofing layers.

Tear-off removes all existing roofing layers, exposing the deck for inspection and repair before new materials go down. Overlays add shingles over old ones, which hides deck damage, traps heat, voids most warranties, and adds weight that may exceed structural limits. Building codes in many areas now prohibit overlays beyond one layer.

Inadequate attic ventilation combined with extreme temperature swings creates thermal stress that warps decking and accelerates shingle degradation. Poor initial installation—including incorrect nail placement, insufficient starter strips, or missing drip edge—allows wind and water infiltration. UV exposure at higher elevation breaks down materials faster than coastal or northern climates.

Reflective shingles with cool-roof technology reduce surface temperatures by 20-30 degrees compared to standard dark shingles. Combined with proper attic ventilation and adequate insulation, roof upgrades can lower attic heat transfer enough to reduce summer cooling loads by 15-25%. The effect compounds in homes with HVAC equipment located in attic spaces.