-
What is the proposal process like?
One of our sales estimators will visit your property. They will take measurements, take photographs and write notes about the potential project, working from the ground right up to the roof surface if necessary. You are welcome to observe this process if you like, but it’s not required since we only need external property access and are fully insured at all times. It is good practice for our estimator to observe the attic space on your property. This can help us determine the health of your roof and make additional recommendations. However, attic access is not a requirement of a roofing proposal.
The estimator will enter the collected information into our customer management system to generate a materials list. Costs are based on the materials list, surface size, access, and pitch, as well as the number and type of obstructions, the presence of valleys, type of materials desired, and labor costs. Once the estimate or proposal is complete, we will either go over the proposal with you, send it to you via email or snail mail: your choice.
You could then call us on the phone or visit our office to discuss any aspect of the estimate, make changes and discuss possible start dates.
-
Are estimates free?
Yes, estimates are free. We work very hard to be prompt at returning calls, measuring your roof, and getting a proposal to you. We try to be accessible for any of your questions or needs.
We prefer to provide a detailed estimate instead of giving a verbal “guesstimate.” This is because there are many aspects that determine the cost of a project. Our detailed proposals give you a clear picture of the work we plan to do so that you fully understand how we calculated the proposed job cost.
Please note that a roof assessment is not the same thing as a roofing estimate. A roof assessment is a paid service typically used for insurance and real-estate purposes. It does not include measurements or pricing.
-
Where does Horch Roofing accomplish roofing projects?
No location is off-limits for Horch Roofing. We cover the entire State of Maine. We will roof just about anywhere within reason.
-
How long will it take to roof my home (complete my project)?
There are many variables which can affect this answer, such as the weather, landscaping, type of shingle (product that we are installing), and, of course, the size of your home, or business. For an average size home, expect the timeframe to be two to three days but we can finish a roof in one day if your project requires this time frame.
-
What happens when I decide to move forward with a project?
If you decide to enter into an agreement, the estimate becomes a contract, at which point financial commitments are required. We would collect a 20-percent down payment to schedule your project.
We know that roofing projects can be costly and that you might need time to prepare for this investment in your property. Our estimates are valid from 30 days to 6 months depending on market labor and material pricing fluctuations. We recommend signing a contract as soon as possible to lock in pricing, even if you would like to wait to accomplish your project until a later date.
We invite you to fill out a request on our website, call 207-273-1111, or stop by one of our offices if you have any questions or would like to know more about our estimate process. We also have great samples to show you and can share a lot more information about the services we provide.
-
What is your customer service like?
Horch has top-notch customer service and is available for you every step of the process. We have been honored with an Angie’s List Super Service Award in 2016 and the Governor’s Award for Business Excellence in 2015. We have been awarded Village Soup’s Best of the Best Roofing Contract 2017, 2018 and 2019. It’s just further proof of our deep commitment to our customers and quality service. See what some of our customers have said about our work.
-
Why is metal a good option for my roof?
Metal is a durable, long-lasting, and low-maintenance material. On average, a metal roof will last 50-60 years, while an asphalt shingle roof will last closer to 20-25 years. Metal is also energy efficient because it reflects heat and blocks its transfer into your attic space and is made from between 60-65% recyclable material. For Maine residents, one of the biggest draws to metal roofing is that they shed snow and ice easily, helping to prevent ice dams. See our metal roofing page for more information.
-
Do you have insurance?
Yes, Horch Roofing is a fully insured roofing contractor through Allen Insurance & Financial. Our company protects you, the homeowner, with $2 million dollars of liability insurance and all of our workers are covered by Workers Compensation Insurance. Read more about why insurance is so important to us.
-
Will my property be protected while you work?
Yes. Our crew is extremely careful to protect the exterior of your home or business while they work to minimize any risk of damage from falling debris, and to avoid damaging windows, siding, and flower beds around your home or business. View this roofing progression to see just how we protect your property.
-
Do you use any green practices?
Yes! Through our Reroof and Recycle Program, we recycle 100% of all roofing debris that we pull from roofs that we work on.
-
What is ridge vent?
Ridge vent is a strip of mesh fiber applied underneath the cap on the peak of your home, aiding in proper ventilation of your home. Ventilation is very important to the performance of your home. Proper ventilation can assist in extending the life of your shingles, prevents condensation, and helps prevent ice dams.
-
What is ice and water shield?
Ice and water shield is a self-adhered roofing underlayment, It is applied to the roof deck on the eaves, in valleys, and around obstructions prior to the application of the finished roof covering. The membrane goes under shingles and seals around nails that hold the shingles in place, so water that doesn’t drain properly cannot penetrate the roof. It also creates a weather-tight barrier against wind- driven rains that cause shingles to lift and leak, and provides protection against ice dams.
-
How do I stop lichens and moss from forming on my roof?
Most modern shingles rock granules are treated with zinc, which reacts with rainwater to inhibit algae growth. (Look for the AR label on the shingle wrapper.) For older roofs or extreme situations, zinc strips can be applied to the top course of shingles, providing a similar effect. Read more about preventing moss from growing on your roof in our blog post.
-
Can I apply new shingles directly over old shingles?
Yes, and some roofing material manufacturers still warranty their roofing products when doing so. However, at Horch Roofing we recommend removing the old roofing first. This method allows for inspection of, and possible replacement of, the roof deck, flashing, trim, etc. Removing old roofing also aids in the installation of proper underlayment and ventilation
-
Is tar paper still used?
Occasionally, but for most applications, we use a synthetic underlayment. Synthetic underlayments are both watertight and breathable.
-
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes, we offer a five-year workmanship warranty along with any manufacturer warranty. Different manufacturers of roofing material may offer longer workmanship and material warranties. During our proposal process, we can provide all the warranty options for the material used on your project.
-
What colors are available?
We offer a wide variety of styles and colors to suit individual tastes. If you don’t see what you like, we will try our hardest to find something else that you like. Read more about different colors and options in our blog post.