Getting a New Roof Installed
Getting a new roof installed is a major home improvement project. It is important to get an experienced roofing contractor to ensure it is done correctly and will last for a long time.
Roofs need to be inspected regularly. If you notice signs of wear from the ground or in your attic, it is likely time for a replacement.
Cost
A new roof is a substantial investment for a homeowner, but it can be well worth the four- to five-figure cost. Compared to the cost of ongoing repairs and patching, a quality roof can last a lifetime and protect the interior and exterior of the home from damage, moisture and pests. A new roof also adds value to the home and enhances curb appeal.
Many factors influence the cost of a roof replacement, including materials and labor. The type of shingle material can vary in price from one brand to another, and certain styles of roofs are more expensive to replace than others. Homeowners can get a better idea of the average price of a new roof by asking Roofing Companies League City contractors for a quote.
Roofing is a highly skilled and labor-intensive job, and labor accounts for 60 percent to 70 percent of the total cost of a new roof. The size of the roof and its pitch determine how much time and effort the job will take, which will in turn affect the cost of labor.
Roofs with a high slope require more labor and materials than flat roofs. The pitch, or angle of the roof, also impacts the cost. The steeper the roof, the more it will cost to replace because it requires more painstaking work and special equipment. Special features on the roof, such as chimneys, skylights and dormer windows, can also increase the cost because they require custom flashing and materials.
There are a number of ways for homeowners to finance a new roof. Some of these options include personal loans and credit cards. Homeowners should consider the interest rates and repayment terms of these financing options before making a decision. Homeowners can also use the equity in their homes to fund a new roof. This can be a good option if the current roof has extensive damage or if the homeowner plans to sell the property in the future. A contractor warranty and manufacturer warranties can also reduce the costs of a new roof. In some cases, homeowners may qualify for state or local grants to help pay for the cost of a new roof.
Materials
When it comes to your home’s roof, there is a lot more to it than meets the eye. Aside from the obvious roofing shingles, there are decking boards, flashings, and other components that make up your roof system. A good contractor will be able to tell you what each of these is and how they work together.
When you start a new roof project, the first thing that your contractor will need to do is inspect the existing roof to determine its condition and how much re-roofing it will require. Then, they will have to choose the appropriate roofing materials for your roof based on the structure of your home, the local climate, and your aesthetic preferences. For example, you could choose dimensional shingles for curb appeal, three-tab shingles for affordability, wood shakes for natural beauty, metal sheeting for durability, or clay tiles for maximum longevity.
Once the roofing contractor has decided on the type of roofing material to use, they will begin removing the old shingles and underlayment. This can be a messy job, so homeowners should plan accordingly and move any movable objects from the area around the house that may get damaged by falling shingles or debris. It’s also a good idea to invest in a few large tarps to cover plants, lawn furniture, or any other items you want to keep protected from falling nails and debris during the demolition process.
The next step is to lay down a layer of roofing paper over the roof sheathing. This will create an inner barrier against water penetrating the sheathing board, which is important for any home that experiences harsh weather conditions. Once the roofer has completed this step, they can begin to shingle the roof.
As with the underlayment, homeowners can expect a significant amount of waste from their roof replacement. It is a good idea to have garbage cans or dumpsters on hand to help with the cleanup process, and homeowners should be prepared for the extra labor cost associated with hauling away this excess material. Lastly, homeowners should also consider investing in a comprehensive warranty for their new roofing. A reputable roofing company will offer both a manufacturer’s warranty and a workmanship warranty for their customers’ peace of mind.
Installation
The cost of a new roof is split into labor and materials. Labor represents the majority of the cost, with 40% of the total project cost coming from the materials, which range in price from $100 to $1,000 per square (a square is 100 square feet). If you decide to do the roof installation yourself instead of hiring a professional contractor, keep in mind that roofing can be dangerous and requires a lot of physical exertion, especially when working on a ladder. This is why it’s important to have an experienced roofer oversee your project to ensure everything is done correctly and safely.
During the roof replacement process, your roofer will tear off and dispose of the existing roofing materials. This is necessary to prepare the roof for the new shingles and prevent leaks during the process.
Your roofer will then start applying a layer of shingle over the bare wood sheathing. They will start at the eaves and metal drip edge, then work their way upward to the peak of the roof. They will also apply a new layer of shingle around any vents, chimneys, wood stove pipes, and skylights. They will also add flashing to these areas to protect against rainwater and ice dams.
Once the roof is fully installed, your contractor will clean up any debris and inspect it for any leaks or flaws in the workmanship. Once the inspection is completed, you can enjoy your new roof and rest easy knowing that it will shelter your home for decades to come!
If you’re planning on getting a new roof, it’s best to talk to your neighbors ahead of time and let them know what will be going on during the process. This will help them to prepare for the noise and disruption and to cover their plants if needed. It’s also a good idea to have your pets stay at a friend’s house or at a kennel service during the roof replacement. This will keep them from being disturbed and avoid the possibility of them stepping on a stray nail or shingle.
Warranty
The manufacturer of your new roof will offer a warranty that protects the materials and workmanship. This warranty will typically last from 20 to 50 years, depending on the manufacturer and roofing material. The warranty will also state what needs to be done in order to keep it active and the coverage intact. Most manufacturers only offer these warranties to homeowners who work with certified contractors on an authorized list and who meet certain conditions. The warranties can also be voided if the homeowner doesn’t take steps to maintain their roof, such as routine inspections and cleaning.
The contractor will often offer their own workmanship warranty as well, which can range from a few years to a lifetime. This is an indication that they care about their workmanship and are willing to put their reputation on the line to ensure that their customers are happy with the job. However, you should always ask the contractor what their warranty covers and be sure to read the fine print. If you see anything in the fine print that makes you uncomfortable, you should find a different contractor who can provide better peace of mind.
Manufacturers will also offer extended warranties on top of the basic warranty that comes with the new roof. These warranties will last longer than the basic manufacturer warranty and will include both shingle and labor coverage. The cost of an extended warranty will be more than the basic manufacturer warranty, but the extra coverage is worth it for many homeowners.
When it comes to upgrading your warranty, you will need to determine if the benefits outweigh the costs. You should also consider how long you plan on staying in your home. Some warranties will also cover consequential damages incurred from roof leaks, such as mold, carpet damage, and structural issues. Some will not, however, and it is important to discuss this with your contractor to see if the warranty includes coverage for these types of repairs.
Getting a new roof installed is a major home improvement project. It is important to get an experienced roofing contractor to ensure it is done correctly and will last for a long time. Roofs need to be inspected regularly. If you notice signs of wear from the ground or in your attic, it is likely…