Contracted with Hebble to complete tear-off and re-roof in November of 2007. At the time I discussed with him problems with recurrent water penetration at two points, and ways to improve the attic ventilation. He assured me that he would diagnose and resolve the water penetration; he recommended both ridge vent combined with new vented drip edge, and also a power vent. He also recommended permanent«Leaf Relief» gutter screens to replace the temp screens in place. I questioned him about their effectiveness and he assured me that if I had any problems with the gutter covers(including the need for cleaning) he would come out and take care of it. We also agreed on larger gutters with a larger downspout. Since installation of all the above(after waiting until June of 2008 to get it done) I have had difficulties with following: They initially did not install the larger downspout. When I pointed this out he tried to convince me that it was indeed larger – however, I have been cleaning my own gutters for 15 years & knew the difference. He did change it to a large downspout on my insistence. Also, his crew had ripped off and removed a piece of my existing aluminum siding trim. He did provide a replacement piece for me to install which did not match but at least covered the gap left in the trim. He never gave me any indication that he had discovered why I had water penetration. The water penetration has since re-occurred. Mr. Hebble’s response was«That’s impossible» and, although he said he would«come out to look at it» he has not and has ignored futher phone messages. The gutters and covers are installed in a manner that traps leaves and debris on top of them, under the overhanging edges of the shingles. They tilt in toward the roof, not away. The leaves, maple flowers, seeds etc sit on top of the covers, blocking the little holes that the water is supposed to enter the gutter through, and packs into the space between the cover and the shingles which will also direct the water toward the house and under the shingles. I still need to climb up 3 times a year at least and clean, not the gutters, but the gutter covers. Not even our recent gale force winds blew the leaves away. He has ignored my calls about this problem — so much for his promise. The power vent was/is very noisy, and also comes on in cool weather in the middle of the night. He replaced it, the issue persisted. I have since been informed by the vent manufacturer that 1) the vent is not meant to be used in such a small attic(ie it is oversized for the space) 2) combining a power vent with ridge vent renders them both ineffective. Mr. Hebble disputes the manufacturer’s recommendations. I have dealt with the noise and nighttime issues by resetting the humidistat and thermostat to higher levels, which reduces the frequency that the fan runs. Added: in this time of high unemployment, it is worth mentioning that his crew consisted of non-documented immigrants, none of whom spoke English; which perhaps accounts for the improper installation of the gutter covers. The roof looks very nice. Other than that, I suspect one can find a better contractor, one that will be willing followup until all problems are figured out and resolved as hired to do.
