If your roof is past its prime, a new one can boost your home’s value and keep your family cool. However, a new roof is a substantial investment that requires planning and budgeting.
We are here to guide you through the process of roof replacement. Before the crew arrives, move outdoor furniture and cover anything that could get smashed by falling debris from the old roof. You’ll be glad you read this!
Cost
Replacing a roof is a costly project. It’s one of the most expensive home renovation projects homeowners can take on. But it’s also a critical project that will protect the house from damage and maintain or increase its value when it’s time to sell.
The cost of reroofing depends on the type of roofing materials, the size of the roof, and the geographic location. For example, homes located in Florida or the Pacific Northwest will require roofs that can withstand high winds and temperatures.
Aside from the actual roofing material, other costs homeowners will need to consider include permit fees and removal expenses for the old roof. Then there are the other materials that will go into the new roof, such as underlayment, new flashing, and ridge vents. Any additional skylights or other features will increase the overall price as well. And lastly, disposal fees will be added to remove the old roof and any other debris.
Materials
The materials used for a roof replacement can make the project more or less expensive. The type of shingles, alternate roofing materials, and the roofing sheathing will affect the cost of the job. Some of these factors are outside the homeowner’s control, but others can be controlled by making smart choices about the material options and contractors.
Thermoplastic roof membranes have become a very popular alternative to traditional asphalt shingles. This type of roofing is durable, watertight, and offers a variety of benefits for homeowners. It is typically best suited for flat or low-slope roofs.
Homeowners can find a wide variety of roof materials to choose from. Some of the most popular options include steel shingles that can be fabricated to look like traditional asphalt shingles or wooden shakes. Metal roofs are also very long-lasting, with some manufacturers offering warranties of 30 to 50 years or more. There are also wood shingles and shakes that provide a classic, rustic look and add value to the house.
Installation
When you hire a roof replacement contractor, they will set up a job site on your property and cover any items that may be damaged by the debris from the new roof. You’ll need to move things like outdoor furniture, grills, ceramic landscaping features, and pottery plants to keep them safe from falling shingle pieces and other waste materials. You should also park your cars further away from the house or in a garage during this time.
Your roofing contractors will check the sheathing (the wood that supports the roof) and make any needed repairs at this time. They’ll then apply a layer of asphalt roofing paper to the sheathing for additional protection against moisture intrusion. This self-sticking material is then tacked or stapled to the eaves and metal drip edge, along with the valley flashing, skylights, and stack vents.
You can add new ridge vents at this point to increase attic ventilation and help prevent winter ice dams. Depending on your location, you may also want to install ice and water shielding or felt underlayment for added protection.
Warranty
A warranty is one of the most important parts of a roof replacement. A warranty is an insurance policy against failure and a way to reduce the risk of costly repairs. There are many types of warranties available from different companies, and each is a little different from the others.
Manufacturer warranties are typically offered by shingle or roofing material manufacturers and cover only defects in their products.
Some manufacturer warranties can be transferred to a new homeowner if the house is sold within a certain timeframe. However, the transfer process varies between manufacturers and may have additional fees. Additionally, a transfer may not be possible if the contractor is no longer in business. Some warranties are also limited in duration and scope. For instance, wear and tear is not covered by most warranties, and the warranty holder may require a claim to be submitted within a specific timeframe. Browse the next article.
