Nobody looks forward to a roof replacement. It’s an endeavor that’s both costly and very involved. Unfortunately, no roof lasts forever, and even the best-built one can only be repaired so much before it has to be completely replaced. Chances are, an immortal roof will never be invented, even in the far-flung future.
The problem is, your roof is very, very important. It’s one of the most important components of your home, working as the first and last line of defense against the elements, preventing lethal water damage. It denies access to pests and other infestations. It helps to keep the climate contained.
Your roof’s condition also directly impacts your home’s curb appeal and resale value, and if it’s in bad enough shape, it can even get your home condemned by code enforcement, the home is deemed unfit for human habitation. So, as a homeowner, sooner or later, you will be facing roof replacement.
As frightening as the idea is, if you go in with the right knowledge and preparation, it’s not all that bad. Today, we’re going to talk about a few things you should know about roof replacement before going in. At RGB Construction, we believe strongly in our customers being as informed as possible.
Materials and Roof Types
There are a host of different roofing materials and styles in use in the modern world, ranging from various shingle types to tiles and other components, some very modern and high-tech from a material sciences perspective.
Choosing the right type of roofing material for your needs, tastes, and budget is a big decision that can be costly if it goes wrong. While the sky is the limit on the types of roofing materials you have to choose from, averages dictate you’re probably going to go with asphalt shingles or something analogous. This may seem like it simplifies things, but there is a wide range of qualities when it comes to shingles, and also there’s the big choice of traditional shingles versus architectural. Architectural shingles are on average, much costlier, but are far superior, providing a higher-quality aesthetic as well as more lasting durability due to the elimination of seams that produce eventual weaknesses.
Layering Vs. Stripping
Depending on what’s already on your roof, you may have the ability to go with layering, rather than stripping, for your roof replacement. If you’ve already got an asphalt shingle roof or something similar, it may be possible to simply layer a new shingle roof over what’s already in place (though some level of stripping for damaged materials must be done). This saves a lot of time, effort and money, but doesn’t compromise the stability or quality of the new roof installed.
Impact
You’re most likely going to be living in your home during the replacement process. This process may take multiple days, depending on the scope of the project, and the weather, etc. It’s worth noting that this will be a loud project, as people walk around on your roof, strip old materials off, and apply new ones. This involves power tools and stapling/hammering and other loud activities.
It’s also worth noting that roofing materials such as shingles need a place to be, and so does waste. Be sure there is space available, and that your car doesn’t get boxed in by any of this.
Installation Ramifications
Before replacement happens, be sure your contractor is clear on any changes to roof shape or height that the replacement may cause and that they inform you of whether they’re layering or stripping. Knowing the lasting effects of a proposed project, on your roof, is just plain wise.
Legalities
Finally, be sure to know your warranty, what is and isn’t covered, and so on. You want to choose a roof with an extended warranty, covering some maintenance issues. Along with this, be sure you have a signed, legal contract with your contractor before they begin work on your roof, and that you have thoroughly reviewed it before signing.
To learn more about roof replacement, fill out our contact form today!
