It’s no doubt that replacing your roof is one of the best investments for your home, but you may have some questions about where you should start. Lucky for you, we are here to help answer those questions to get you started in the process. We will go over five frequently asked questions that will point you in the right direction from start of the process to finish.
When should I replace my roof?
Roof replacement is a large investment and should not be taken lightly. Look out for signs of roof age with the naked eye before calling in an expert. If you experience any of the following symptoms of an old roof, you will want to schedule an inspection right away.
- Wet spots on your ceiling, in the attic, or even crawl spaces.
- Shingles are blistered or cracked
- Curled, buckled, or even broken/missing shingles
- Chimney Masonry is cracked, broken or missing.
- Granulated or worn shingles
- Spongy or moldy roof spots from roof rot.
- Water backup in eaves
- Damaged flashings or even missing flashings
If you see any of these signs in your roof, do not wait. These are all telltale signs of a roofing issue and may be time for a roof repair or a roof replacement. Contact your contractor and have a full roof inspection done. Many contractors will give you a free roof inspection and estimate with accurate details on how to go about the problem.
How to Find the Right Roofing Contractor?
After the conclusion of whether or not you need a new roof or at least a repair, it is time to select the right roofing contractor for the job. Many contractors offer the same services, so picking through them can be intimidating. The right contractor will know the ins and outs of roofing and will always try to get the most out of your money. Do not fall for the scams.
Word of mouth on local social media pages, from family or friends, and from other services are a great way to learn about others’ experiences without all the guff. What other people say will be a good judge of character for the roofing contractor since you are speaking to someone you trust and not just a sales pitch. You can then find the contractor and conduct research of your own. It never hurts to get a second opinion and quotes as well.
Investigate all companies from then on. Look for service and product ratings on the Better Business Bureau as well as licensing and insurance. If they have all that information, you are on a great start. Contractors should also be able to tell you product and service warranties. This is huge to save money and extend the longevity of the roof. Finally, you pay for what you get. Consider spending a little more now, to save down the road.
Which Roofing Options & Materials to Use?
Roofing materials are changing for the better each and every year. You will want to research new materials that can fit your roof. Contractors will be able to lay all these materials for your specific roof out in a neat format in order to get the roof that best suits your needs and budget. Materials such as metal roofing, shingles, roof guard, and more options are available now. They all come in different colors and styles depending on your preferences. Your contractor can shop and compare with you in order to meet all your needs for the roof that will last and be strong. It is important to get something that will stand the test of time.
Also, look and ask for deals that can help with the environment and can ultimately give you big discounts and rebates. Solar roofing or solar shingles are a way to cut costs on your energy bills while saving the planet. Many companies offer big rebates and discounts/credits for installing a solar roof. Just something to be aware of.
How to Prepare for Installation?
In the case of needing to replace your roof, there are a few different steps to take in order to make the process proceed smoothly and quickly with the least amount of damage to your property.
- Remove all loose items from your walls – Pounding and walking on the roof can oftentimes vibrate the whole house causing items to fall and break.
- Remove vehicles and items away from the outside of the house and clear the driveway – Contractors will appreciate the extra room for equipment and falling materials will not damage your possessions.
- Mark/convey problem areas – Contractors may want to know where to be careful of in order to not damage anything that is not moveable. (gardens, canopies, etc.)
The contractor will be able to tell you what should move and what can stay. Most contractors can get the job done the same day, but make sure to have a plan if the project will last longer. They will be able to tell you where it is safe to move, when they are coming and going, etc.
What is the Lifespan of my Roof?
Even with the best quality materials and quality of workmanship the roof still has a lifespan. Generally, the average lifespan of a roof is 20 years. This time frame is all dependent on weather, quality of materials and workmanship, and how you choose to maintain your roof. Setting up a regular maintenance schedule and roof inspections will help to elongate the timeframe of your roof. A good contractor will offer these programs and will help to keep the roof in tip-top shape through the next 20 plus years.
