Start with the assembly
Shingle choice matters, but underlayment, fastening, starter, valleys, flashings, and ventilation carry the assembly. That means tracing the symptom back through the covering to the deck, the underlayment, the flashing, and whatever the attic or ceiling is showing.
Questions for the scope
- What gets removed versus repaired, reused, or replaced?
- How are surprises at the deck handled once the old covering is off?
- What underlayment, ice-barrier, valley, and edge details are specified?
- How is the property protected during tear-off and installation?
- What permits are pulled, and what does the warranty actually cover?
Albany context
Albany roofs span slate-topped rowhouses, low-slope urban additions, bungalows, Capes, and later suburban homes. Good planning connects the visible covering to deck condition, flashing, ventilation, drainage, masonry, and a demanding freeze-thaw cycle.