A roof provides important benefits to your home. Aside from sheltering you from environmental elements, it also adds to your house’s curb appeal. For this reason, it’s crucial to maintain your roofing with regular cleaning, repainting, and checking for clogs or holes. However, if your house is an old structure, you may come to a point when you need to replace your entire roof.
If you’re dealing with a lot of missing shingles and recurrent leaks, partial repairs may not be enough to fix the problem. The first step is to consult a reputable roofing company to determine the scope of your undertaking. Bear in mind that replacing an entire roof is a major renovation job. It will be expensive, tedious, and stressful. Before you hire a contractor, here are five things to consider:
1. Roofing Materials
If the last time you reroofed your house was a decade ago, you’ll be surprised to know that the process may not be the same this time. Thanks to technology, there are newer, more innovative materials that are now available. It’s a good idea to check out what’s in the market. Head to your local hardware and see your options.
Aside from conventional shingles, there are metal roofs that can resemble other types of materials. You may also want to consider architectural shingles that look more appealing than the traditional asphalt ones. Newer materials may cost more, but they also last longer and perform better.
2. Layering vs. Stripping
Roofs with asphalt shingles can bear up to two layers. If your current roof uses this type of material, you could opt to install a new layer on top instead of stripping everything away. This would allow you to save time and money. However, take note that shingles adhere better directly to the roof than to other shingles. If your area is prone to high winds and heavy rains, it may be better to strip and start with a fresh layer of roofing.
3. Installation Inconveniences
Before day one of roofing begins, make sure that you understand what this project would entail. Whether you are layering or stripping, there will be hammering and other loud noises involved. It will be a disturbance to your neighbors, so make sure you secure a permit from your village or neighborhood.
Consider your pets or young children who may be sensitive to the sound. If you conduct business or work in your home office, you may need to find a temporary place during working hours. Coordinate with your contractor and ask to be involved in every step of the way to avoid inconvenient surprises.
4. Warranty
Before you hire a roofing company, inquire about their warranty policy. Some provide free maintenance within a time frame while some offer free repairs in the event of a natural disaster. A new roof is not a cheap purchase, so it pays to know you’re getting the most of your investment.
5. Contract
Your roofer should provide you with a well-drafted contract of the project’s scope. All details should be clearly stated, including the type of materials, color, time frame, procedure, and other considerations. Review this document before signing.
Replacing a roof is an essential and urgent undertaking. Partner with a trustworthy and credible contractor so you can maximize your investment. With the right materials and proper installation, your new roof should serve you and your family for up to 30 years.
We provide home renovation services in Ocean City. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!