Try metal when you re-roof

By: MORRIS and JAMES CAREY - Associated Press | Thursday, May 4, 2006 7:14 PM PDT ∞

If you've got leaks and drips from peak to border, a brand new roof might be in order.

While they cost more initially, metal roofs pay off in the long run, with lifetime transferable warranties, meaning you (or future owners) will never have to re-roof. And because they're fireproof, you might also pay less for homeowner's insurance.

Another big benefit is greater comfort and energy savings. Metal roofs reflect more heat from intense sun, while asphalt shingles absorb heat and transfer it indoors. And, contrary to what you might think, the sound of rain on metal is no greater than on traditional roofing.

Metal roofs are earth-friendly, too (millions of old asphalt shingles wind up in landfills). Plus, they're lightweight, install faster and come in various styles from shakes to tiles.

Q: I have a problem with worms that just started coming into my home, from under the toilet, and under cabinets. Please help, the sight of worms makes me sick. How do I get rid of them? ---- Jessica

A: Most likely, these are not worms but larvae that are getting into the house. A professional pest control operator will need to do an inspection to find out how they are getting in and what to do to keep them out.

Q: How do I ensure that the contractor I hire will complete the job, and how much more will it cost me? ---- Heide

A: There is only one method that will guarantee the completion of your home improvement in the event that your contractor fails: a performance bond. Performance bond is simply an insurance policy in the amount of your construction contract, purchased by you (costs about 4 percent of the contract amount), and is secured by the contractor's assets and past performance record. It is difficult for nonreputable home improvement contractors to get bonding because the criteria to acquire one is very stringent.

Caution: Don't confuse the performance bond with the contractor's license bond. They aren't the same.

Q: I'm shopping for a new dishwasher. Which one can I rely on for the most quiet operation? ---- Jane

A: According to Consumer Reports, Kitchen Aid and Whirlpool top the list for quiet operation, but we don't recommend that you stop there. Add extra insulation as part of the installation of your new work-saver.

You'll need a can of spray adhesive and a small roll of 1-inch spun glass insulation (your local heat and air-conditioning contractor will be your best bet in locating the small amount of materials that you'll need). Follow the instructions on the can of adhesive carefully to achieve a lasting bond. Apply as many layers of insulation to the machine as possible while still allowing it to fit into the cabinet opening. An additional layer applied to the inside surfaces of the cavity in the cabinetry where the dishwasher fits into is also recommended.

Consumer Reports Books publishes a handy reference called "Guide to Appliances" which may help you to get your money's worth when purchasing most appliances.

Q: I live in a home which was built approximately 30 years ago. I believe asbestos was used in the furnace ducting and possibly in other areas. Should I be concerned? ---- Jeff

A: Asbestos in the home is a reason for concern but not panic. A health risk exists only when asbestos fibers are released from the material or product.

Soft, easily crumbled "friable" asbestos-containing materials have the greatest potential for asbestos release, and therefore the greatest potential to create health risks. But in most cases, asbestos-containing materials are not "friable" and are best left alone. If you still are worried, there are testing labs that will evaluate the suspect material to determine if it presents a health risk and recommend what to do.

Many states closely regulate firms that remove asbestos, so make sure your asbestos contractor is properly licensed. The Environmental Protection Agency Toxic Substances Control Act Assistance Hotline at (202) 554-1404 offers a very informative booklet entitled, "Asbestos In The Home."