If you are looking to improve the look of your home or increase energy efficiency, then you might want to think about a roof replacement. These projects are a great way to increase the value of your home as well. However, a roof replacement can be an expensive renovation. With any project, you probably have a budget and want to stick to it. In some cases, there can be hidden costs that might break the bank. Here are some unexpected expenses that can affect your roofing project.
General Cost of a Roof Replacement
Before you start your roof replacement project, you need to set a budget. For most homeowners, you can expect to spend between $8,000 to $17,500 for the replacement. That price will include the removal of the old roof, costs of material, disposal fees, permits, and labor. There are some other considerations that you should know about your project, including:
Roof dimension: If you have a simple roof, then you can expect to have lower replacement costs. The slope, size, and complexity of the structure will have an impact on your project. All roofs are measured in squares, and the more squares replaced means a higher cost. Slanted roofs also have a large surface area that will need to be replaced. Hips, valleys, and dormers will add to the cost of the replacement.
Roofing materials: You can find a variety of roofing materials for your project that can keep you within budget. Asphalt is affordable, and it only costs between $150 to $550 per square. Slate is one of the most expensive options that cost from $385 to $800 per square. These raw materials can make or break your budget. There are other building material costs that you need to consider, including caulk, boards, plywood, roof underlayment, flashing, and sheathing.
Labor: These costs can vary depending on the scope of the project, the size of the crew, and their experience level. While you might think that roof replacement can be a DIY project, you will need the help of an experienced roofing contractor. A professional roofing company will help you to stick to your budget and avoid any hidden costs.
Disposal: You can install new shingles over existing materials, but that can affect the quality of your roof. For the best results, you will need to remove and dispose of your current roof. All the debris and shingles must be placed in a dumpster. Those costs can add to your budget.
Permits: Depending on your town or city, you might need to secure a permit for your roof replacement. Your roofing company will help with the permits, but you should be prepared to pay for the cost of them. In some cases, the permits are a flat rate. They can also be based on your home’s value or size.
Unexpected Costs for Your Roofing Replacement
You have set a budget and want to stick to it. Unfortunately, the roofing company could uncover additional costs that are not discovered until the contractor begins work. If you have an older house, you should be prepared for the unexpected. Some of the most common hidden costs include:
Pests and mold: If you live in an area with animals or insects, then you might have an infestation and not know about it. Humidity can also cause mold and termite damage to your roof.
Rotten wood: You could have leaks in your roof. The damage will not be discovered until the old material is removed. Any water leaks can cause extensive damage, like rotten wood. If you have any of this damage, it will need to be fixed. Structural damage can increase the cost of the project by a few hundred dollars.
The roof is not up to code: If you have an older home, then your roof might not have the precise requirements that will keep it up to code. With a new efficient roof, you can increase your home’s sustainability. However, a new roof with improved features will add more expenses to your budget.
Keep Your Roof Replacement on Budget
With any home project, you want to avoid those extra costs that can drive up the budget. There are some ways that you can prepare for the project and lower those costs. Some of these tips include:
Cover your attic belongings: If you are storing items in the attic, you will want to cover them with plastic sheeting or a tarp. This plastic can protect your items and debris from falling into your attic.
Move valuables away from home: You should think about moving lawn furniture and plants away from your home. You also want to move vehicles too. By moving them, you can lower the risk of items getting damaged by the roofing team.
Plan an off-season roof replacement: In the spring and summer, there is a higher demand for roof repairs. In turn, the costs will be higher than those projects completed in the colder weather. Shingles can even cost more in the summertime than in the fall.
Leave some wiggle room in the budget: You don’t want to make your budget down to the cent. If something can go wrong, it usually will happen. By doing this, you can take any of those issues in stride without worrying about coming up with more money for your project. You would rather be safe than sorry when it comes to roof replacement.
Establish a relationship with the contractor: You want to have an open line of communication with your roofing company. They should know about your budget limits so that they can determine the best way to give you a new roof for your home.
As you can tell, a roofing project can be complicated and expensive. You want to stick to your budget, but you should be prepared for the unexpected. With the right roofing company, they will help you avoid any hidden costs by being upfront with all expenses.
If you want to learn more about a roof replacement, make sure to fill out the contact form.
