FAQs

Find answers to commonly asked questions about your roof, repairs, our services, and more.

How much does ice dam removal cost?

Some home insurance providers may cover the cost of ice dam repairs and removal services—especially if the dam is the primary cause of your water leaks. To learn more, contact your insurance provider to ask about coverage.

Is it dangerous to leave ice dams on your roofing system?

When left untreated, an ice dam can damage the integrity of your roof, causing water leaks and damage to your gutters, shingles, and home or building insulation.

What causes ice dams formation?

On most residential roofing systems, heat from the attic can warm the roof, causing snow to melt into water and travel to the eaves (i.e., the edges of your roof).

The water then freezes on the eaves and expands as more water continues through the same melting process. Eventually, the build-up creates an ice dam that causes water to sit on top of your roof, causing water damage.

What maintenance is required on my new roof?

Very little maintenance is required on a new roof. If you visually inspect the roof and its drains or scuppers, you have completed nearly all the maintenance required.

 

 

Can I walk on my new roof?

Yes, you can walk on your new roof. Just like any waterproof surface, caution will need to be taken.

Repair vs. replace. I want to repair my roof for now.

This may be a good answer for your roof at this time. If repairing the roof is going to be a short-term solution, expect our experts to tell you that. Sometimes we know there are budget limitations prohibiting a roof replacement, but you will be told about it because of the low probability of a successful repair.

Should I add insulation when I re-reroof?

That depends. The building code says you need an R-value of 22.9 with insulation placed above the roof deck. If you have less than R 22.9, it may be a good investment.

How long should my roof last?

Good roofs should last a couple of decades, but how long is individual to the building. There are many factors that contribute to exactly how long they last, including environmental impact (chemicals, hail, ice, etc.), foot traffic, maintenance, and debris. We have replaced roofs that were 80 years old and roofs that were 8 years old.

What is a mechanically fastened roof?

Mechanical fastening is a method of securing the roof membrane to the roof deck with fasteners such as screws or nails (into concrete roof decks). It provides a high wind uplift rating while being very efficient to install, therefore lowering re-roofing costs.

I've heard white roofing is the trend and I've heard black roofing is better in northern climates. What should I do?

Many white membranes are Energy Star-rated and improve cooling efficiency. Information found by people with more degrees and titles than us may help clear the theories up. 

What happens when you show up to roof my building?

When All Elements’ crew arrives to install your roof, our Foreman usually brings a job site trailer that will be left on site for the duration of the job. Frequently there will be a dumpster delivered as well. With single-ply membrane roofing, you won’t have the smell of tar. There isn’t a hot kettle of tar to avoid, so disruption to you is minimal.

Help! My roof holds water.

Some residual water is common on buildings. How much water stays on the roof and how deep the puddle is can be the concern. All Element’s has membranes available from manufacturers who will warranty your roof, whether it has residual water on it or not.

What is hot air welding?

PVC and TPO single ply membranes seams can be welded, as opposed to glued. This provides a secure, inspect-able water tight union of where the membrane overlap. Unlike adhered seems on EPDM (rubber), hot air welded systems can be installed in all temperatures.

How long has All Elements been in business?

John Thurber started All Elements in 2002 out of his home. We now occupy a 20,000-square-foot facility along I-94 in Monticello. Learn more here. 

How will I know what's happening once I agree to a new roof?

Once your agreement has been received, you will be contacted, confirming your project, and a tentative production date will be given. As the time gets close to production, you will be updated. Once All Elements arrives on site, our Foreman will introduce themselves and communicate the project plan. The amount of contact varies from project to project.

I have ice dams every winter. What can I do about it?

There are a number of conditions that cause ice dams; which one is causing yours can only be determined with an investigation.  Call All Elements for more information. 

Can my roof be repaired in winter?

Many repairs can be accomplished in the snow and cold but some of the products used change their performance characteristics in the cold or don’t adhere over a frozen roof.

What happens if it rains or snows during my roofing appointment?

Weather delays happen. The rule of thumb is: If it rains where our crews are working, “one day’s rain equals two days delay.” One day for the rain and one day for the roof to dry off so you don’t experience leaks from residual water as we commence roofing operations.

Can my roof be installed in the winter?

All Elements installs roofs year-round. With a mechanically fastened, hot air welded single-ply membrane, many roofs can be installed during the winter season.

Our area has been hit by a storm and we have severe damage. What do we do now?

Give us a call as soon as you are able. Our number is 763-314-0234. We can get out and make your building watertight until repairs or replacement can occur. All Elements’ roof contractors are highly qualified to help you with storm and hail damage to roofs.

 

Learn More About Roofing

Educational resources

Still have questions about your residential or commercial roofing? For a deeper dive into roofing matters, visit our insurance claims page and blog collection.

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