Questions, answered plainly

Yes. Standard inspections are free for owner-occupied homes in our service area, with a photo report emailed within two business days. Detailed pre-purchase and association surveys are priced separately.

Photos of each slope and the flashing, gutters and chimneys, an estimated remaining life, and repairs ranked as urgent, within two years, or watch and wait.

Usually within 3 to 5 business days. Active leaks are prioritized for same-day or next-morning visits.

Every estimate is written, itemized and valid for 30 days, with options where more than one material makes sense.

If most slates ring solid when tapped and are not flaking, restoration is usually the better value, often 35 to 60 percent of the cost of a new slate roof. Our survey counts the salvageable slate so you can decide with real numbers.

Hard Vermont and Pennsylvania slate commonly lasts 100 years or more, soft slate 60 to 90. Fasteners and flashing usually need attention long before the stone does.

Iron and galvanized nails rust within decades and let slates slip. Copper nails last as long as the slate.

Over time, yes. It browns within a year and develops green patina over 10 to 20 years depending on exposure. Pre-patina finishes are available.

Most single-family replacements take 2 to 5 working days. Slate, copper and large complex roofs can take 2 to 6 weeks. You get a written schedule before work starts.

No. We tear off to the deck on every replacement so we can inspect and repair the decking and install ice and water shield properly.

Natural slate and copper have the lowest cost per year of life on most houses, but the highest upfront cost. Architectural shingles have the lowest upfront cost. Our materials library compares them side by side.

Yes. Slate, metal and membrane work continue year-round. Asphalt shingles are scheduled around temperatures above about 40 degrees.

Yes. Our storm crew is on call during declared storm events and can usually dry-in a damaged roof within hours.

Yes, at no charge. We provide photos and a line-item scope and answer the adjuster's technical questions. We do not negotiate claims on your behalf.

Coverage depends on your policy, the cause of damage and the roof's condition. Sudden storm damage is often covered, wear and tear usually is not. This is general information, not legal or insurance advice.

In local historic districts such as Beacon Hill, Back Bay and parts of Cambridge and Brookline, visible roof changes typically need review. Like-for-like repair is often approved at staff level. We prepare applications and samples for you.

We do. Permit fees are itemized in your estimate.

Yes, through third-party lenders with terms from 5 to 15 years, subject to credit approval. Our financing page has a sample payment estimator.

Workmanship warranties range from 3 years on repairs to 30 years on soldered copper seams, plus manufacturer coverage on new systems. See the warranties page for details (sample terms).

We hold a Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License and Home Improvement Contractor registration, with general liability and workers compensation coverage. License numbers on this demo site are placeholders.