ARS Roofing & Gutters FAQ

We’re based in Santa Rosa and proudly serve Sonoma, Napa, and Marin counties, plus many nearby communities. If you’re just outside the North Bay, call us—if we can help, we’ll tell you. If we can’t, we’ll try to point you in a helpful direction.

Yes. And this is non-negotiable for us.

For your protection, ARS Roofing & Gutters is fully bonded and insured, and we carry additional liability coverage for HOA communities, condominiums, and apartments. That means you’re not left holding the bag if something goes wrong on-site.

In California, it’s illegal for someone to perform work over a certain dollar threshold without the appropriate contractor licensing. Always verify credentials before signing anything. For example, the ARS Roofing & Gutters license number is 837618

Yes. When a permit is required, we handle the process.

 If a contractor avoids permits to “save you money,” it can create expensive headaches later, especially if you sell or file an insurance claim.

Every project is different, but a thorough estimate should clearly spell out:

• Tear-off scope (how many layers, what gets removed)
• Underlayment and waterproofing approach
• Flashing details (chimneys, valleys, skylights, walls)
• Ventilation adjustments (if needed)
• Materials and installation method
• Cleanup and disposal
• Timeline and payment schedule
• Warranty terms

If something is vague, we encourage you to ask us for more details to help you fully understand your purchase.

In most cases, yes. Flashing is part of doing the job correctly, and it should be addressed in the scope.

If flashing is skipped, reused when it shouldn’t be, or installed incorrectly, leaks can show up even on a “new” roof.

What to look for in a bid: It should specifically mention flashing at roof-to-wall transitions, chimneys, skylights, valleys, vents, and penetrations.

Of course! And doing so is essential. Leaving underlying layers can:

• Trap moisture
• Hide damaged decking
• Reduce lifespan of the new system
• Create uneven installation and weak attachment
• Risk code issues depending on the existing conditions and local requirements

A proper tear-off lets us inspect the deck, replace compromised wood, and build a roof system you can rely on.

Yes. Warranty coverage depends on the roofing or gutter system selected and the manufacturer’s program, plus workmanship terms.

We always review warranty options with you in plain English, including:

• What’s covered (materials, workmanship, or both)
• How long coverage lasts
• What maintenance is required to keep coverage valid
• What could void coverage (like improper repairs by others)

We install high-quality gutters designed for longevity and curb appeal. Many homeowners prefer pre-finished (prepainted) gutter systems because they hold color well and resist corrosion.

Gutters manage roof runoff and help protect:

• Fascia boards and eaves
• Siding and trim
• Foundations and crawlspaces
• Landscaping and hardscapes

If you’re unsure what’s best for your home, we’ll recommend options based on roof lines, rainfall patterns, and drainage needs.

We do both.

Some systems only need:

• Resealing leaky corners or end caps
• Re-hanging sections with improved slope
• Replacing damaged downspouts
• Correcting overflow issues at valleys or roof intersections

Other times, replacement makes more sense—especially if the gutters are undersized, failing in multiple areas, or poorly installed from the start.

Yes, more often than people think.

When gutters clog, water can back up under roof edges and into places it doesn’t belong. Over time, that moisture causes:

• Wood rot
• Mold and staining
• Deterioration along roof edges and fascia
• Water intrusion at vulnerable transitions

Yes, when they make sense.

Gutter guards can help in areas with heavy leaf debris, but they’re not “set it and forget it.” Some guards still require periodic cleaning, and certain roof types or debris conditions need a specific product choice.

Yes. Roofing emergencies don’t wait for business hours so neither do we.

We’re available 24/7. If you’re dealing with active dripping, ceiling stains, or sudden water intrusion, call us right away.

What you can do while you wait:

• Move valuables away from the leak
• Use a bucket/towels to control water
• If safe, note where the leak appears (room and ceiling location)
• Avoid climbing on a wet roof

Timing depends on roof size, complexity, and weather, but most projects follow a predictable flow:

1. Inspection + estimate
2. Scheduling + material coordination
3. Tear-off (if replacing)
4. Deck repairs (if needed)
5. Underlayment, flashing, roofing installation
6. Cleanup + walkthrough

We communicate throughout the project so you always know what’s happening next.

Yes and we understand the extra layers involved.

We’re insured with additional liability coverage for these property types, and we’re used to working in environments where professionalism and communication are essential.

We’re proud of our craftsmanship and we stand behind it.

ARS Roofing & Gutters (Alternative Roofing Solutions, Inc.) was founded in 2004 after our owner, Letitia, spent years working her way up in the trade starting in 1996. Today, our team operates like a family, with 24+ team members and deep experience across residential roofing, commercial roofing, and gutters.