Whether to repair or replace a roof requires careful evaluation of several factors, including the extent of the damage, budget limitations, and practical considerations. The roof style is also an essential factor, as different styles have varying installation and material costs.
Other signs that it’s time to re-roof include a visible sagging of the roof, water spots inside the home, and excessive granule buildup in the gutters. For professional help, contact Roof Replacement NJ.
The cost of a roof replacement is more than just the materials, but also includes labor and other expenses. It is best to have multiple estimates and choose a contractor that is licensed, insured and certified by the state. You should always ask to see proof of insurance, including worker’s compensation and general liability coverage.
The type and size of the roof will impact the cost. For example, a larger roof will require more materials and take longer to install than a smaller roof. In addition, the style and shape of the roof can add to the overall price. For instance, a roof with a high pitch (a steep angle) requires more painstaking labor and may need specialized equipment to work on.
Whether or not you need to replace your roof depends on the amount of damage, age and condition of the shingles and other materials. Generally, it is better to replace your roof when there are a lot of damaged or missing shingles, the shingle lifespan has expired or if there is evidence of water or mold damage to the structure of your home.
Minor issues like soffit tears, valley problems and gutter issues are better addressed individually rather than replacing the entire roof. It is important to note that a repair or replacement will add value to your home, and buyers may demand that any major repairs be made prior to closing on the property.
In some cases, homeowners’ insurance will cover a part or the entirety of the cost of a roof replacement. However, this only applies if the roof has not been damaged due to neglect or other factors outside of your control.
Other factors that affect the cost of a roof replacement include debris removal, clean-up and disposal, and structural repairs. These can increase the total costs of a project by several thousand dollars. It is important to discuss these with your roofing contractor so that you can understand the estimate you receive and make sure you are comfortable with it. You can also explore a roof financing option, which can help you afford the cost of your project without having to delay your home improvement projects.
Materials
A roofing replacement can be a great opportunity to upgrade your home’s aesthetic, especially if you choose the right materials. Different roof materials offer different advantages, such as cost, lifespan and warranty. Some can also improve your energy efficiency and some may be better suited for particular climates.
A metal roof is durable and resists leaks, but it can be noisy and expensive compared to other options. Fortunately, there are several types of metal roofing available that can make it more affordable, such as galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum and copper. Some also come with a protective finish that prevents corrosion and has a reflective surface for energy efficiency.
Another good option for flat roofing is EPDM membrane, which comes in large sheets to minimize seams, and can be mechanically fastened or glued to cover boards or insulation boards. It’s a popular choice for commercial facilities, and lasts 10-15 years. TPO, which stands for thermoplastic polyolefin, is also a common choice for flat roofs. It’s manufactured in rolls and is hot-air welded to the edges of the roof to seal it. It has the added benefit of being water-resistant and fireproof.
If your roof is nearing or has reached its lifespan, it’s best to replace it as soon as possible for peace of mind and energy savings. Old, worn-out roofing materials allow conditioned indoor air to escape and outside air to infiltrate, which forces your HVAC system to work harder. A quality roof replacement can prevent this by preventing air leaks, improving insulating materials and replacing damaged areas of the roofing structure.
Choosing the right material for your roof is one of the most important decisions you can make. The right choice will increase your home’s value, provide longevity and a high level of performance in extreme weather conditions, and contribute to the overall aesthetic of your property. In addition, a new roof will give you a renewed manufacturer’s warranty for a longer period of time than an older, unprotected roof. Get our free Buyer’s Guide to learn more about the different materials, how they perform and how much they cost.
Installation
A new roof is a major undertaking. It’s important to work with a reputable roofing company that understands your home and can give you an accurate estimate of what the cost will be. You’ll also want to ensure that the contractor is licensed and insured. This will protect you from any damage that may occur during the project.
The first step is a thorough inspection of the existing roof. This will determine whether a roof replacement is the right course of action or if repair would be more appropriate. A craftsperson will examine the roof, take measurements, and discuss your options and preferences.
Once a plan is established, the construction process begins. The roofing team will remove the old shingles and felt paper, if needed, and install a moisture barrier. This will help prevent water leaks and mold growth in the attic. The crew will also replace or re-seal any flashing and vents, as well as clean up the gutters.
Depending on the size of your roof, this process can be completed in a day or two. The timeframe depends on the type of roof you have, as certain types of shingles need to dry before installation. Metal roofs are the quickest to install, while wood shake or slate roofs can take up to a week to complete.
While some homeowners might try to complete a roof replacement themselves, it’s usually best to leave it to professionals. This way, they can work without disrupting your daily life and you can be sure that the job will be done correctly. In addition, a professional can also provide you with the best materials for your specific roof.
Before starting the work, it’s a good idea to clear the attic of sentimental items. These are more likely to be damaged during a roof replacement, and storing them in the attic can lead to mold problems. It’s also a good idea to cover any movable items with tarps. This will keep them from being damaged by hammers and the thousands of nails that are likely to fall during the replacement.
Maintenance
Keeping your roof well maintained is one of the best things you can do for your home’s structure and aesthetics. This will help you avoid costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your roof. A maintenance plan should include regular inspections and cleaning, repairing minor issues, and addressing any areas that may be vulnerable to moisture (which can damage roofing materials and cause water leaks in your home).
Depending on the condition of your roof, you may need to consider a partial or full replacement. Sometimes, the damage to a roof is too extensive to repair and the cost of a new roof is more affordable than repairing the existing damage. In addition, some homeowners choose to re-roof their homes for cosmetic reasons.
The first step in a roof replacement project is a thorough inspection by a qualified roofing professional. The contractor will look for any signs of leaking, mold growth, or other issues that require attention. They will also look for areas where additional waterproofing is needed. They will also check the shingle installation and verify that it is properly aligned and straight. The contractor will also inspect the flashing, which is a metal strip that seals gaps around chimneys and vent pipes, to make sure there are no leaks.
After the old roof has been removed, the roofing contractor will begin installing the new roof. This usually starts with a layer of underlayment, which is made of a water-resistant material. It is important to use a waterproof underlayment, especially in Florida, where shingle damage and moisture are common problems. The roofing contractor will also inspect the underlying frame of the roof and repair any damaged wood, or areas that are rotted or decaying. They will also replace the flashing, and install any necessary caulking or insulation.
Before starting the re-roofing process, it is a good idea to trim back any trees that are overhanging the roof, and move outdoor objects like ceramic landscaping features, potted plants, or your satellite dish. It’s also a good idea to deactivate your sprinkler system, as it can leave puddles on the ground that need to be dried before the new roof is installed.