Close-up of a grey shingled house roof with multiple intersecting slopes and vents.

Case Study: Roof Replacement for a Colonial Home in Merrimack, New Hampshire

Overview

Master Roofers was called in to replace the roof of a colonial home in Merrimack, New Hampshire. The homeowner, a young family, had recently purchased the property, which had been remodeled by a previous owner. After noticing water stains on the second-floor ceilings near the chimney, the homeowners reached out to Master Roofers to assess and resolve the issue. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the roof was not only aging but also suffering from significant ventilation issues that were contributing to the water damage.

Initial Client Request

The homeowners contacted Master Roofers after noticing staining on their ceilings, which they suspected was due to a roof leak. They had recently moved into the home, which had been remodeled by a house flipper. The house had a relatively new roof, about 10 years old, but the water stains prompted concerns about the roofing system. They sought an expert's assessment to determine the cause and find a lasting solution to avoid future issues.

Site Inspection and Findings

Upon the first meeting, a Master Roofers roofing advisor conducted a thorough inspection of the roof. The roof appeared to be in decent condition, though there were some minor signs of aging. To gain a better understanding of the issue, the roofing advisor accessed the attic, which led to the discovery of a significant ventilation problem. The attic was excessively hot and poorly ventilated, a condition that was likely exacerbated during the home's renovation. The improper insulation and ventilation had allowed moisture to accumulate, which caused condensation to drip onto the attic nails, eventually staining the ceilings below.

This issue was worsened by the lack of proper ventilation in the roof, which meant that heat and moisture were trapped, potentially leading to mold or mildew growth in the attic. This confirmed that the source of the stains was not a roof leak, but rather improper attic conditions.

Master Roofers' Plan

Master Roofers proposed a comprehensive solution to address both the existing roofing issues and the ventilation problems. Given the homeowner's desire for a long-lasting solution, the plan included replacing the roof entirely with a premium GAF HDZ asphalt shingle system, which comes with a 30-year warranty. The roof would be stripped down to the decking, with all new underlayment, ice and water shield, and proper flashing installed to ensure a watertight seal.

Additionally, the ventilation issues would be resolved by installing a ridge vent to allow for proper airflow. The attic had been poorly ventilated due to obstructed gable end vents, so the ridge vent would ensure that cool air could flow in from the soffits and exhaust warm, moist air from the ridge, creating a balanced, efficient ventilation system. This would prevent future moisture buildup and potential water damage.

The homeowners also appreciated the additional option to finance the project, which made the necessary work more manageable within their budget.

Installation Process

The roof installation went smoothly, with Master Roofers addressing all the challenges outlined in the plan. The team replaced the existing roof with high-quality materials, ensuring a solid foundation with proper flashing, underlayment, and shingles. The most significant part of the job involved improving the attic ventilation, which required careful coordination to ensure the ridge vent and soffit vents were properly installed.

The project was completed in a timely manner, though the team had to take extra care with the ventilation improvements and ensure that the new roof would provide lasting protection. The homeowner was pleased with how quickly the work was completed and how clean the site was left after the installation.

Final Results and Client Satisfaction

The final result was a beautifully restored roof that not only improved the home's appearance but also solved the underlying issues that were causing the ceiling stains. With the new roof in place and the ventilation system fully functional, the homeowners could rest assured that they wouldn't face similar problems in the future. The installation was backed by a 30-year warranty from GAF and a 10-year workmanship warranty from Master Roofers.

The family was pleased with the outcome, especially knowing that they wouldn't have to worry about roof leaks or moisture damage for decades to come. The new roof also provides better energy efficiency by allowing for proper airflow, helping maintain a comfortable home year-round. The installation of a reliable roofing system and an improved ventilation system ensured that the home would remain secure and protected for many years.

Conclusion

This project highlights Master Roofers' ability to tackle complex roofing issues, including addressing hidden ventilation problems. By offering a comprehensive roofing solution, including a premium shingle system and proper ventilation, Master Roofers was able to ensure that the homeowners would not only enjoy a beautiful roof but also a healthier, more energy-efficient home. The project was completed with minimal disruption and within the homeowner's budget, demonstrating Master Roofers' commitment to customer satisfaction.

For more information about Master Roofers, visit Master Roofers or call 603-623-4973.