A healthy roof protects a home from the elements. Damaged roofing can lead to mold, mildew, water leaking inside the house and lower property value upon resale.
Depending on the extent of the damage, homeowners may choose to opt for a repair or a roof replacement.
The roof is an integral part of any home, but it’s also one of the most expensive house renovation projects. Although regular maintenance can extend the life of a roof, eventually it will need to be replaced to protect the integrity of the structure and prevent leaks and other damage. Fortunately, homeowners can minimize the cost of roofing replacement by considering financing options.
The cost of a new roof depends on several factors, including the size of the existing roof and the material chosen for the replacement. Some of these costs are out of the homeowner’s control, such as geographic location and weather conditions. However, the choice of shingle type and alternate materials can have a major impact on the overall cost. While basic asphalt shingles are the most affordable option, more expensive options like slate or metal are available for those willing to pay more.
In addition to the cost of materials, homeowners should also consider labor and disposal charges for their old roof. Labor to tear off a roof can cost $1 to $3 per square foot, while the cost of disposing of the old roof can be significantly higher. Moreover, roof removal may require removing other structural elements, such as the roof decking and trusses. These costs can range from $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on the type of roof and the amount of structural damage.
Other factors that can affect the cost of a roof include the complexity of the installation, the roof’s shape and slope, and the number of special features, such as dormer windows, skylights, or chimneys. These items can increase the price of a roof because they require additional flashing and are more difficult to install than standard roofs. Additionally, the cost of a roof can also be affected by its pitch or slope, which requires extra safety precautions and more labor.
It’s important to plan ahead for a roof replacement, especially if it will involve significant construction and heavy machinery. If you have pets, it’s best to keep them at a friend’s or kennel service during the replacement, as the noise and hammers can disturb them. If you can’t, make sure to provide them with a safe, quiet space where they can rest and have access to their favorite toys.
Warranty
When a homeowner invests in a home improvement project, they want to feel confident that their investment will be protected. That’s why warranties are an important part of the homeowner protection arsenal. They offer a safety net for a variety of different products and services, including roofs.
When selecting a contractor, it is important to review the warranties they offer before signing a contract. Many contractors offer a workmanship warranty and a manufacturer warranty on their work, and both play an essential role in providing consumer protection.
A workmanship warranty covers the craftsmanship of a roofing project and can protect against defects in the installation process. While this type of warranty is usually standard, it can differ from one contractor to the next. Be sure to ask your prospective contractor about their warranty and ensure that it is written and in your possession upon completion of the project.
On the other hand, a manufacturer warranty is an assurance from a product manufacturer that their products will function properly and last for a specific time period. A manufacturer warranty can cover repairs or even replacement of the product if it fails to perform as promised.
The length of a manufacturer warranty will vary by manufacturer, but most will offer a warranty for up to 30 years on their products. It is also important to keep in mind that the manufacturer warranty may not cover everything. For example, wind, hail and lightning damage are typically not covered by a manufacturer’s warranty.
It’s important to understand the differences between contractor and manufacturer warranties so that you can make the best choice for your roofing needs. Contractor warranties focus on the craftsmanship and materials used in a construction or service project, while manufacturer warranties are more concerned with the quality of the products themselves.
Another thing to keep in mind is that a warranty is not transferable, so it is important to stick with your original contractor for the entire life of the warranty. It is not uncommon for homeowners to violate their warranty by bringing in a different contractor or failing to follow maintenance guidelines, which can lead to the termination of the contract and nullification of the warranty.
Installation
The roof is one of the most important parts of a home. It protects your family from storms and keeps the house a comfortable temperature all year round. If your roof is damaged, it needs to be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. This is because damage to your roof can lead to leaks, pest infestation, mold and mildew, higher heating and cooling bills, and a lower resale value for your home.
The first step in a roof replacement is the tear-off process. The roofing contractor will remove any debris or trash from the site and move vehicles off the driveway. He or she will also cover any plants and shrubs with tarps. This will prevent them from getting covered with shingles and other debris. The contractor will also cover any open drains to prevent clogging.
During the tear-off process, the roofing crew will inspect the sheathing (or roof decking) and the flashing for any signs of damage. The sheathing is the inner layer of your roof that helps hold shingles or tiles in place. If the sheathing is rotten, it will need to be replaced before the new roof can be installed. The contractor will also inspect the flashing around chimneys and vents. If it is corroded, it will need to be replaced as well.
Once the old roof is removed, the roofing contractors will install a sheet of felt or a breathable synthetic underlayment. The underlayment creates an inner barrier that stops water from penetrating the sheathing and causing moisture problems in your home. The underlayment is usually tacked or stapled to the sheathing and is placed in rows up to the peak of the roof.
Before starting on the roof, the roofing contractors will check with your local city or township to make sure that all required permits have been obtained. Some communities have HOAs or Architectural Review Boards that regulate the types of roofing materials allowed, so it’s essential to make sure that all permit requirements are met before beginning work on your new roof. It is also important to notify your neighbors about the work and any noise or disturbance that may affect them. This will help keep everyone happy and allow your neighbors to prepare for the work ahead of time.