Things To Consider Before Getting A New Roof Installation
As integral as the roof is to a house, proper attention has to be dedicated to it. The last thing anyone wants is a defective roof. The difference between a good roof and a bad one is mostly determined by how well it was installed, that is why you should have it done by professionals
New House
If you are constructing a new house, then you would, most certainly, need a roof. A house is not complete without a roof, regardless of whatever design or furnishing you do to it. A roof gives protection, form, and beauty to the house. A house without a roof is basically outside.
The Old Roof Has Lasted A While
Age is something quite critical when dealing with roofs. This is because every roof has a lifespan, and this is also dependent on the kind of material you are using. So if your roof has been around for years, probably you inherited the property, it may be a good idea to get a new roof installed
Continuous Repair Of The Existing Roof.
If you notice you are spending money, and time repairing the current roof you have, then it may be time to get a new one done. No need spending money fixing and replacing shingles and slates, or doing one repair work or the other. A perfect solution to that would be to get a new roof done. It may seem expensive, but it saves you a lot in the long run.
These Are Just Some Of The Very Common Situations Where You Would Begin To Consider Getting A Roof Installation Done
Due to the expensive nature of roof installations, including the cost of materials, and paying for it, one would have to pay adequate attention so as not to make an expensive mistake. Think of a good roof as an investment. If your roof is done properly, it can last you for 30 to 50 years and even much more, depending on the material. It may seem expensive, but your main aim should be to ensure that is properly done by the right people.
How Much Does Roof Replacement Cost?
What Are Roof Replacement Cost Factors?
Roofing contractors look at several variables to determine the price of a new roof, including its size, pitch, accessibility and cost of materials. Because of this, prices for a new roof can range drastically.
How Much is Roof Replacement In Your Area?
Replacing a roof is one of the costliest upgrades a homeowner can make. Contractors in different regions charge different rates for roof replacement. For example, in the North East and West coast the roof replacement cost range from $5 to $7 while in the South, they range from $2.50 to $3.
In terms of a ballpark figure, though, Michael Allen, owner of Above It All Roofing in Irvine, California, says the average cost of a new roof runs as low as $5,000 for a basic asphalt shingle roof — the most commonly used roofing material in America — to $25,000 and up for higher-end roof types. The average price, he says, is $12,000 to replace an architectural shingle roof in his market.
Does Pitch or Slope Affect Price?
The complexity of the roof design may require a little more extra materials. Contractors also charge more for installing shingles to complex roof designs.
A large variable in pricing is the roof’s pitch, or slope. Some roofs have a high pitch, while others have a low pitch or no pitch at all — all factors which affect the cost of the roofing project. Allen says a roof with a pitch of about a 7:12 ratio — the first number represents the height and the second the length — or higher isn’t walkable and may require extra safety harnesses and equipment. A 7:12 roof, for example, means that for every 12 inches it runs horizontally, the roof rises 7 inches vertically.
Signs You Need a New Roof
Most people don’t really think about the roof over their heads…until it springs a leak! Don’t wait until water is pouring through the ceiling and you have to break out the buckets to pay attention to your roof. According to the National Roofing Contractors As
Start Inside
If you think you might need a new roof, the first place to check isn’t your home exterior—it’s your attic. So arm yourself with a flashlight and climb up under the eaves. Look for beams of light coming through the top of the house or stains and streaks, which signal a leaky roof
Paper Trail
Review your home improvement records to see how long ago the roof was replaced or reshingled. Knowing when a roof was installed (and what it’s made of) offers insight into how much life it has left. For instance, a typical asphalt shingle roof lasts 20 to 25 years, while a roof installed over an existing layer of shingles should be replaced after 20 years.
Check Shingles
Keep an eye on your rooftop to make sure its in ship-shape, especially after heavy storms. Shingles should lie flat against the roof; if you find patches that are cracked, damaged, or buckling, then repairs are in order. While you’re at it, check the gutters and downspouts for shingle granules—a roof that is losing a lot of granules may be at the end of its useful life.
Flash Forward
The flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys seals the seams of the roof from rain and weather. Examine these points make sure there are no cracks or breaks, which could lead to leaks. In older homes, flashing is often made of roof cement or tar, but it’s a good idea to upgrade to a metal flashing system for added durability.
Steps to Take to Prepare for a New Roof Installation
Having a new roof installed is an important home improvement project for those that need one. Not only will replacing your entire roof solve important issues like leaks, cracks, and low energy-efficiency—it will also prolong the life of your home construction while increasing the value of your home.
This is especially true if you’re upgrading to a higher quality construction than what your existing roof is made of. Today’s roofing products are more advanced than ever before and engineered for better durability and protection against the elements.
Cover Items In Your Attic
One of the most important things you need to do to prevent any damage to your belongings is to cover any items in your attic. This will help to keep them safe from any falling debris or dust knocked loose from the roof replacement.
Move Vehicles Away From Home
Your car is one of your most valuable investments and falling debris from a roof installation can cause serious damage to cars under roofing eaves. Ensure that you move any vehicles away from the construction zone to keep them safe.
Plan Ahead For Pets & Kids Sensitive To Loud Noises
As soon as your roofing company shows up, you will quickly realize how loud the process can be. Make arrangements for kids and pets that are sensitive to loud noises to keep them safe and sound.
Important Things to Know about Roof Installation
Like other home improvement projects, roof installation is important because it’s your primary defense against the elements. A new roof is also key to your home’s energy efficiency and overall value. As you will have to live with your choice of roofing for at least another 20 years, getting every detail right is important.
Roof Design is Important
Curb appeal is a major criterion in choosing roofing material, but you should also consider other design factors. Take for example a pitched roof. It’s certainly the best in terms of curb appeal, but it’s not exactly a practical choice if you live in an area with little rainfall. In terms of materials and labor, pitched roofs cover a wider area and therefore require more materials. They also need longer and more labor-intensive installation.
Roofing Materials Matter
will tell you that slope is one of several factors that affect your choice of roofing materials. For example, flat or low-slope roofs require built-up roofing or membrane roofing to keep water out efficiently. On the other hand, steep-slope roofs require shingles or heavy tile roofing that can handle large amounts of rainwater.
Roofs Need Constant Attention
It’s ironic that the most-used part of the house is also the least-often seen. Your roof is constantly exposed to the elements, so it’s only logical that your roof needs constant monitoring. Preventive is always better than reactive, and the same logic applies to roofing maintenance. Taking care of the problem is easier to fix and will cost much less than the repair costs it would have incurred if the problem snowballed. Make it a point to have a scheduled roofing maintenance every two to three years.