Maybe you’ve seen the signs for years, or maybe it was one strong storm that did some serious damage.
When you’re facing a roof replacement, just the thought of replacing your entire roof can be overwhelming.
If you’re ready to replace your roof, you may expect the contractor to handle the entire process but that’s not always the case.
It’s both valuable and empowering to know what to expect and understand how the process of roof replacement works. This way you can be an active participant in the process and spot a red flag when you see one.
Signs You Need To Replace Your Roof
Before you believe someone who tells you that you need to replace your roof, consider the two major factors that contribute to a roof replacement.
- End of Life – Most asphalt roofs don’t last more than 25 years. If yours is getting close to that, even if it’s in decent condition, it becomes a liability and it might be time to replace it.
- Significant Damage – As a rule of thumb, the most effective solution for damage that affects more than 30% of your roof is a replacement rather than a roof repair.
- Some of the damages to look out for include:
- Sagging roofline.
- Curling, broken, or missing shingles.
- Leaks causing water damage.
- Storm damage.
Two Methods of Roof Installation
When your roof is due for replacement, there are two options you can choose from. You can either choose to overlay new shingles over the old material or tear off the old material before installing new shingles.
Overlay – This involves the installation of new shingles without removing the old material. Overlaying is not recommended by experts but some homeowners prefer the look of an overlay because it gives a thicker texture.
- Pros
- Reduced Waste: Because you’re not removing and disposing of old shingles in a landfill, this option reduces waste.
- Cost Savings: Overlay is cheaper and faster because you eliminate the cost of removing old shingles and disposal costs.
- Cons
- Increased Weight: Two layers of shingles means double the weight on the roof, which might be too heavy for the underlying roof structure.
- Warranty Void: Some manufacturers consider the terms of the warranty breached if you overlay new shingles over old ones.
- Underlying Issues: When you overlay new shingles over old ones, you may miss underlying problems in the underlying structure that could lead to worse damage.
Tear Off – Tear off is the method generally recommended by a professional contractor. First, the old roofing material is completely removed and disposed of before new roofing materials are installed.
- Pros
- Fresh Start: Because you’re starting from scratch, any underlying problems can be easily identified.
- Longevity: New materials tend to have better durability and a longer lifespan when they are not installed on top of older materials.
- Warranty: The manufacturer’s warranty is guaranteed
- Cons
- More Expensive – Due to additional labor and materials required to first tear off and then install, this method is more expensive.
8 Tips To Prepare For Your New Roof
When it’s time to install your new roof, you may be nervous or apprehensive about how the process will go.
Any professional contractor will take great care to protect your property and finish the job as quickly as possible.
There are a few things you can do to make your roof replacement stress-free.
Protect Your Kids – As your roof is being replaced, the area around your home will become unsafe, especially for young kids and pets. It may be time to visit a friend or family member. However, if you decide to stay at home, make sure to keep your kids and pets inside and away from any potentially dangerous materials.
Inform Your Neighbors – Talk to your neighbors about the work that will be going on in your home before contractors arrive. That way, they will know of the upcoming noise and potential for nails or shingles in their yard.
Provide Several Power Outlets – Make sure that your external electrical outlets are working for roofers to power their electrical tools. External power outlets are preferred. If unavailable, you may have to run extension cords through your doors and windows.
Move Your Vehicles – Relocate your vehicle from the driveway and garage to the street. This is to avoid damage from falling debris and to provide enough space for contractors to keep their tools and trucks.
Remember the Attic – The activity on top of your roof will cause a lot of dust and debris to fall into your attic. You may want to remove any fragile belongings and cover the rest with drop cloths or sheets.
Cut Grass and Trim Trees – Mow the lawn a day or two before the contractors arrive. This will keep the debris visible. Cleanup will also be faster and more thorough. You also need to trim trees that overhang your roof to give roofers easy access.
Reposition Grills, Patio, and Toys – A gazebo is the safest place to reposition your grills, patio furniture, potted plants, kids’ toys, and any other valuables that may obstruct contractors. If you don’t have a gazebo or a shed, you can place them at a safe distance from the work area.
Cover Your Plants – During replacement, your plants are vulnerable to falling shingles. Note the plants that are valuable to you, and cover them if possible. You can also notify contractors about the plants that are valuable to you.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace Your Roof?
The majority of homeowners spend between $5,000 to $12,000 depending on roof size and material.
According to homeadvisor.com, the national average cost of roof replacement in the US is $8,000.
This number fluctuates significantly based on the state you live in and if you choose a roofing material other than asphalt shingles.
Factors That Affect the Cost of a New Roof
Two homeowners in the same neighborhood may receive very different estimates for their roof replacement because of the variety of factors that contribute to the overall cost.
- Size of Roof – Larger roofs take a longer time, and require more labor and materials.
- Type of Material – Roof material makes up approximately half of the roof replacement cost. Some roof materials are more expensive than others. Asphalt shingles are the cheapest roof material while slate, metal, and tile roofs are more expensive. The cost of roof replacement will vary depending on the material you choose.
- Roof Fixtures – The more chimneys, skylights, and other roof fixtures your roof contractor has to maneuver during replacement, the higher the cost of labor which increases the overall cost of roof replacement.
- Cause of damage – Some damage is covered by insurance and significantly reduces your out-of-pocket costs. If your roof was a victim of natural disasters like hail or storm, some or all of your replacement costs may be covered by insurance depending on your homeowner’s insurance policy.
Get a Professional
The process of installing a roof on your home can be overwhelming. The materials, colors, styles, timeframes, and budgets are a lot to take in all at once.
To simplify the replacement process, it can all be boiled down to two main factors.
First, know what you want.
Second, know who you want to do it.
Explore all the roofing material options, drive around to see colors and styles you might like, and then pick a top-notch contractor. Armed with these two resources, you will sail through a roof replacement with flying colors.
You need to hire a roofing contractor who cares about your roof as much as you do.
The right roofing company should have a permanent business location, communicate clearly and promptly, must be licensed and certified; have good reviews, and comprehensive warranties, and offer free inspection and estimates.
This is where Invision Roofing fits the bill, give us a call today and schedule your roof replacement tomorrow.
