Home service questions, answered
31 plain-language answers about roofing, HVAC, pest control, windows and hiring a pro. Answers are general, and details vary by home, location and professional.
31 questions.
Roofing
Leaks, lifespan, materials and storm damage.
How do I know if I need a new roof?
Common signs include missing, cracked or curling shingles, leaks or water stains inside, daylight in the attic, granules in the gutters and sagging areas. Age matters too, because every material has a typical lifespan. A professional inspection is the best way to learn whether repair or replacement fits your roof.
Should I repair or replace my roof?
It depends on the age of the roof, how widespread the damage is, whether the problem is a one-time event such as a fallen branch and how many repairs it has already had. Small, isolated problems are often repairable. Widespread wear or repeated leaks may point toward replacement. Ask for a written explanation of both options.
How long does a roof usually last?
Lifespan depends on the material, the quality of installation, the climate, ventilation and maintenance. Some materials generally last longer than others, and manufacturers publish their own expected ranges and warranty terms. Treat any single number as a rough guide rather than a promise.
Does homeowners insurance usually cover a roof?
It depends on your policy, the cause of the damage, the roof age and your state. Sudden damage from covered events may be treated differently from wear and tear. Check your policy and ask your insurer directly. We are not an insurance company and cannot say whether a particular claim would be covered.
What should I do after a storm damages my roof?
If it is safe, take photos from the ground, prevent further damage where you reasonably can (for example, a temporary tarp by a professional) and keep receipts. Avoid climbing on a damaged roof yourself. Contact your insurer if you plan to make a claim and get written estimates from licensed professionals.
Which roofing material is best?
There is no single best material. Asphalt shingles are widely used, metal and tile can last longer, and slate is a premium option. The right choice depends on your budget, climate, roof structure, local rules and how long you plan to stay in the home. A pro can explain trade-offs for your house.
Can a roof be replaced in cold or wet weather?
Often it can, but conditions matter. Some materials and adhesives work best within certain temperature ranges, and rain or ice can delay or pause work. Ask the contractor how they handle weather, how they protect the open roof and what the schedule looks like.
HVAC
Heating, cooling, maintenance and efficiency.
When should I replace my HVAC system instead of repairing it?
Consider replacement when the system is older, needs frequent or costly repairs, struggles to keep rooms comfortable or uses noticeably more energy than before. A technician can compare repair and replacement options for your specific equipment. Ask for both in writing.
How often should an HVAC system be serviced?
Many manufacturers and technicians recommend an annual check, often once for cooling and once for heating where both apply. Filters usually need checking or changing more often. Your equipment manual and warranty paperwork may list specific requirements.
What does SEER mean?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, a measure of how efficiently an air conditioner or heat pump cools over a season. Newer standards use SEER2, which is tested differently. Higher ratings generally mean less energy use for the same cooling, but the best choice also depends on climate, installation quality and budget.
What is the difference between a heat pump and a furnace?
A furnace creates heat by burning fuel or using electric resistance, and is usually paired with a separate air conditioner. A heat pump moves heat and can both heat and cool. Which one suits a home depends on climate, existing equipment, fuel costs and the specific model.
Why might my air conditioner not cool the house?
Common causes include a dirty filter, blocked airflow, thermostat settings, a dirty outdoor coil, low refrigerant from a leak or an equipment problem. Check the filter and thermostat first. If it still struggles, a licensed technician should diagnose it, because refrigerant work requires certification.
How do I know what size HVAC system my home needs?
Size should come from a load calculation that considers square footage, insulation, windows, layout, climate and more, not just the size of the old unit. A system that is too big or too small can cost more to run and feel less comfortable. Ask the contractor how they determine size.
Pest Control
Common pests, treatments and prevention.
What are the common signs of a pest problem?
Look for droppings, gnaw marks, nests, shed skins or wings, mud tubes, sawdust-like frass, unusual smells, damaged food packaging and bites with no clear cause. Where and when you notice activity helps a technician identify the pest.
What are the warning signs of termites?
Possible signs include mud tubes on foundation walls, hollow-sounding or damaged wood, discarded wings near windows or doors, and small holes or sawdust-like droppings. These can resemble other issues, so a qualified inspector should confirm before any treatment decision.
Can I handle pests myself, or should I call a professional?
Small, simple problems such as a few ants can sometimes be handled with careful, label-directed products and sealing entry points. Larger or recurring problems, wood-destroying insects and rodents often call for a professional. Always read product labels and keep children and pets in mind.
Is pest treatment safe for children and pets?
Licensed professionals follow label directions and local rules, and should tell you what products they use and any waiting time before people or pets return to treated areas. Ask for product names and safety information, and mention children, pets or health concerns before treatment.
Is a one-time treatment or a recurring plan better?
A one-time treatment targets a current problem. A recurring plan aims at prevention and seasonal pests. The better choice depends on the pest, your home and your preferences. Ask what each visit includes, what happens if pests return and what the cancellation terms are.
How can I help prevent pests?
Seal gaps and cracks, fix leaks, store food in sealed containers, keep trash covered, trim plants away from the house and reduce clutter and standing water. These steps do not guarantee a pest-free home, but they remove many of the things pests look for.
Windows
Replacement, materials, glass and installation.
How do I know when to replace my windows?
Signs include drafts, fogging between panes, damaged or rotting frames, windows that are hard to open or lock, and noise or comfort problems. Sometimes a repair or new weatherstripping is enough. An installer can inspect and explain the options.
What is the best window frame material?
There is no single best option. Vinyl, wood, fiberglass, aluminum and composite each have trade-offs in cost, upkeep, appearance and durability. Climate, home style and budget all matter, as do the specific product and the quality of the installation.
What is the difference between double-pane and triple-pane windows?
Double-pane units have two layers of glass with a sealed space between them; triple-pane units add a third layer. Extra panes can improve insulation and sound reduction but add weight and cost. Coatings and gas fills also matter, so compare the whole glass package, not only the pane count.
How long does window installation take?
It depends on the number and type of windows, the condition of the openings and the crew size. A single standard window can be quick, while whole-house projects can take days. Ask the installer for a schedule and how each room will be protected.
What is the difference between insert and full-frame replacement?
Insert (pocket) replacement fits a new window inside the existing frame. Full-frame replacement removes the entire window, including the frame, and allows the opening to be inspected, insulated and flashed. The right choice depends on the condition of the existing frame and wall.
Will new windows lower my energy use?
They can improve comfort and reduce drafts, and efficient windows may reduce energy use compared with older single-pane or leaky windows. How much depends on the existing windows, climate, air sealing, insulation and installation quality, so be cautious about any specific savings claim.
Hiring & Quotes
Comparing quotes and choosing a professional.
Are the quotes really free?
Requesting quotes through this site is free and carries no obligation to hire anyone. Independent professionals set their own terms, and some may charge for certain types of inspections or reports, so ask any pro what is included before you agree to a visit.
How many quotes should I get?
Many homeowners find it useful to compare at least three written estimates for larger projects. Make sure each quote covers the same scope, materials and warranty so you are comparing like with like.
How do I check a contractor's license and insurance?
Licensing rules vary by state and locality, and some trades or small jobs may not require a license. Check your state or local licensing board, ask for proof of insurance and confirm it is current. Written proof is better than a verbal promise.
What should a written estimate include?
A good estimate lists the scope of work, materials and brands, who is responsible for permits and cleanup, the schedule, the total price and payment terms, and warranty details. Be cautious about vague quotes or pressure to sign immediately.
Who will contact me after I submit a request?
We connect your request with independent local professionals or partner companies, who may contact you by phone, text or email. Availability varies by location and service, and we do not offer every provider in your area. You are never required to hire anyone.
Is Home Coverage FAQ a contractor or an insurance company?
No. We are an information website and free quote request service. We do not perform home improvement work, we do not guarantee any contractor's work and we do not sell homeowners insurance or home warranties.
Still have a question? Ask a local pro directly with a free quote request.