Do you have a failing roof that needs a replacement? Perhaps you need to research more before calling your roof construction company. More often, you would first want to know if you can repair the roof. If a reroof isn’t an option, then you know that buying a new roof is inevitable. That’s often the case when the roof is old and in a deplorable condition or when there are already two layers of shingles overlying the deck.
We’ve covered what to expect with new roofs to help you plan for your next roof replacing project. We’ll also look at the things to consider when replacing a roof, including the roof replacement costs. Similarly, you’ll learn some of the roof replacement basics.
Reroofing Vs. Roof Replacement
As we’ve noted above, a reroof is simply repairing a damaged portion of your roof. The technique is best done on newer roofs that suffered some minor to moderate physical damage. Before reroofing, you need to do a thorough roof inspection first. This ensures there are no underlying issues such as a rotting deck or mold infestation.
Unlike a reroof, a roof replacement means tearing off the existing roof shingles and fixing a new one. This process takes time and is costlier than a roof repair. It, however, fixes a majority of the roof issues at once.
Roof Replacement Costs
How much you’ll incur to replace a roof varies. The choice of roofing material majorly determines the overall cost. For example, three-tab asphalt shingles are more economical than architectural shingles or slate. The steepness or slope of your roof and the choice of a roofing contractor also affect the cost.
Other factors include your roof’s square footage, your location or region, and even the time of the year. On average, a three-tab asphalt shingle that fits a small home will cost
an average of $ 7,000. Architectural asphalt costs $4 on average per square foot. That is, including demolition fees, waste disposal, permit, and cleanup fees.
Your location, to a greater degree, will also determine the overall roofing cost. The West Coast and Pacific region states have a higher roof replacement pricing compared to other US states. That said, you may opt to use a roof replacement cost calculator and get a roof replacement estimate.
Last but not least is the condition of your roof. If your roof has some severe water damage, a repair is necessary before installing a new roof. This will call for more time and expertise to fix the decking and ceiling area. Similarly, steep-sloped homes require additional equipment, such as safety harnesses, making roof installation costlier.
Understanding the Roof Replacement Process
If it’s the first time replacing your roof, you may want to know all the steps involved. Often the whole project takes one to four days, depending on the size of the roof. After a roof inspection, the technicians will tear off the old roofing. They will then do some minor repairs on the decking, depending on the current condition.
What follows is to fix a synthetic waterproof barrier that prevents melting ice from seeping through the sheathing. This is common in areas that snow. Next is to lay down rows of asphalt roofing papers before applying metal drip edging around the roof edges.
Before applying tab shingles, the technicians will apply a new valley flashing. This helps protect the mid-section where the two roofs meet. It also directs rainwater runoff away from your roof. Last but not least is to apply the flashing around the chimney, stack vents, skylights, etc. This seals all the areas where leaks might occur. What’s left is to complete the cleanup and haul any debris away.
Replacing Your Roof? Choose the Best Roofing Contractor
Making the decision to replace your roof is a worthwhile investment. You will improve your home’s curb appeal and boost the longevity of the roof. But most importantly, you’ll fix all the roof issues. That means you’ll enjoy some peace of mind for the next couple of years and even decades.
After making up your mind to replace the roof, next is to choose the right roofing contractor. The best roofing company has a team of competent technicians that treat their clients right. The company should also be licensed and insured to offer roof replacement services. That said, you also want to work with a contractor that will listen to your needs and prioritize them. This is often easier said than done. So, you want to go over some reviews to ascertain that the company offers what they say they do.
Before scheduling a roof replacement project with your contractor, you should prepare in advance. You can also inform your neighbors that there will be some loud noise for a couple of days to avoid complaints. This will also help them prepare in advance and to avoid any inconveniences.
