Replies

1. 
   Art_Root | Sep 25, 1999 07:30pm | #1

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   We've got a cape with a low pitch roof. The attic area was built into one large master bedroom with sloped ceilings. Now we're in the process of having a shed dormer added onto the back side. The original plans call for an extended ridge with rubber roof on the dormer. However, some of the contractors bidding on the job don't advise this and have recommended adding an entire second floor instead. They feel the pitch would not be sufficient to prevent ice dams. The second floor is not within our budget (unless I do a large portion of the interior work myself). Do you guys think they're just trying to get a bigger project out of me? Secondly, if we go with the dormer, do you guys recommend rubber roofing or a self-sealing membrane all the way up to the ridge with 30 to 40 year shingles over it? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!

2. 
   Guest_ | Sep 25, 1999 07:30pm | #2

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   Art,

   Whether your contractor's are "reputable". . . only you can tell that. Since I or anyone else here can't actually see your project it's hard to make that call. But, I have done some dormers like the one you describe without the need for a second floor with no ill effects.

   When you say you have a low pitch, how low? Most shingle manufactures don't recommend their's for a pitch below 4 in 12 without a roofing membrane/ice damn applied before the shingle go down. In severe climates, it might be best to use "roll" roofing.

   Joseph Fusco

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