Roofing questions, answered by a local roofer

Answers to the questions Montgomery and Bucks County homeowners actually search for, written from what we see on real jobs around Horsham.

Cost

How much does a new roof cost in Montgomery County, PA?: Most asphalt roof replacements we do run $6,500 to $18,000. What sets your price, what we find on local houses, and a free estimator.
Do you need a permit to replace a roof in Montgomery or Bucks County?: Usually yes, but it depends on your township. Rules for Horsham, Abington, Lansdale, Doylestown and more, from official township sources.

Emergency roof tarping: what does it cost and how long does a tarp hold?: A tarp is the first step of an emergency repair. Most emergency roof repairs we do run $550 to $3,250. What a tarp costs, how long it holds, what to do.
My roof is leaking right now: what do I do in the next hour?: Catch the water, cut power to wet fixtures, stay off the roof and call a roofer who answers 24/7. What to do in the first hour, and who to call.

Will homeowners insurance pay for my roof in Pennsylvania?: Most PA homeowner policies cover sudden roof damage from wind, hail or a fallen tree, not a roof that wore out. How claims usually go, and where we help.

How long does a roof last in southeastern PA?: Around here, three-tab shingles usually last about 15 to 20 years and architectural shingles about 25 to 30. What shortens that, and how to check yours.
Ice dams on Horsham-area homes: why do they happen and how do you stop them?: Ice dams start in the attic: house heat melts roof snow that refreezes at the gutter. Why local Capes get them, safe removal, and the lasting fix.
Repair or replace? How do we decide on a roof inspection?: Repair if the damage is in one spot; replace once a repair tops about 30% of a new roof. How we decide on a free inspection, and tear-off vs overlay.

Are gutter guards worth it with all the trees around here?: Under big oaks, maples or pines, usually yes. Installed guards typically run $1,200 to $5,000. Which type works under which tree, and when to skip them.
Can you paint vinyl siding, or should you replace it?: Usually yes, if the siding is sound and you use a vinyl-safe paint no darker than the original. When to paint, repair ($350 to $3,000) or replace.