Plain answers about roofing in Trenton
Most roofing questions here fall into four groups: what to do when water is coming in, how winter and storms treat a roof, which permits and registrations apply on each side of the Delaware, and how to choose a roofer. Short answers below, with links to the full guides.
- Repairs and replacements for rowhouses and twins
- Nor'easter, ice dam and storm damage
- Connected to an independent local roofer
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Fastest: call (833) 751-2102. Or send this and we call you back.
When water is coming in
How can I tell where a leak begins?
Start indoors, trace the stain upward and look in the attic for wet insulation, darkened boards or light coming through. Chimneys, party walls, valleys, vents and rear additions are the usual entry points. Details are on the roof leak repair page.
Is it wise to tarp the roof on my own?
No. A wet roof is dangerous and a loosely fastened tarp can tear shingles. Contain the water inside, photograph the damage and ask a roofer to cover it. The emergency roof repair page explains how.
Why does my roof leak only when snow melts?
Meltwater is a likely cause. Snow on the warm part of the roof melts, runs down and refreezes at the cold eave, backing water under the shingles. If it stops once the thaw ends, the ice dam page explains what to do.
Winter, wind and storms
What causes an ice dam?
Heat from the house melts snow on the roof, and the water refreezes at the cold overhang. Poor insulation, air leaks and weak ventilation set it up. The ice dams and nor'easters guide explains the cycle.
Can a nor'easter really harm a roof in this area?
They can. Long wind and driven rain find weak flashing and edges, and heavy wet snow loads low-slope roofs. Damage depends on the storm's track and your roof's condition. See nor'easter roof damage.
How soon should I have a roof checked after a storm?
As soon as it is safe, especially after high wind or falling limbs. Damage can be hidden until the next rain. A roof inspection gives you written findings with photographs.
Permits and paperwork
Does a rowhouse roof need a permit?
Published summaries say attached homes do not qualify for the ordinary-maintenance exemption that may apply to detached one- and two-family homes, so a permit is expected. Confirm with your municipal construction office. See the permit guide.
Do historic districts affect roofs?
They can. Mill Hill in Trenton may require commission review for visible exterior changes, and other old districts work similarly. Ask the municipal office before choosing a new material.
What should a roofing contract include?
A written scope, the price, the dates, the contractor's state registration number and signatures from both sides. Published summaries say New Jersey requires a written contract above a stated threshold; the New Jersey guide explains what to confirm.
Choosing a roofer
How do I check a roofer in New Jersey?
Ask for the Division of Consumer Affairs registration number and confirm it with the state. The number should appear on the contract. The New Jersey guide has the details.
And in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has no roofing licence. Contractors who do home improvement work register with the Attorney General, and the number belongs on estimates and contracts. See hiring a roofer on the Pennsylvania side.
Why does this site list no prices?
Because any figure would be a guess about a roof nobody has seen. The pricing page and the cost guide explain what moves a quote.
Question not answered here?
Call and ask. A technician will give you a straight answer, even if the answer is that you do not need us.