As a barrier that protects against the sun, rain, wind and extreme temperatures, the roof of any building goes through wear and tear over time. Repairing or replacing your roof can be a huge investment.
But a newer, more durable roof can save you money in the long run. The signs that indicate it’s time for a new roof can range from visible exterior clues to subtle indicators within your living space.
Getting a new roof can be expensive. There are a number of components that go into the total cost, including materials and labor. The type of roofing material you choose is a big factor. Some are more budget-friendly than others. You also have to consider the overall house aesthetic and maintenance requirements. In the end, it’s best to work within your budget while still making a responsible choice that will last for years to come.
Depending on your roof, your homeowner’s insurance may cover all or part of the replacement cost. It’s important to check your policy in advance to make sure you know what to expect. Generally, homeowner’s insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing a roof due to severe weather events such as hail, high winds, or heavy snow.
The average cost of a roof replacement is around $9,400. This price is based on the type of roofing materials you choose and the size and complexity of your current structure. A basic three tab shingle roof is an affordable option for many homeowners, while a metal roof can save you money on your energy bills in the long run. Other cost-effective options include PVC or a tile roof.
Labor is the largest portion of the total cost of a roof replacement. Typically, roofers charge by the “square,” which is equal to 100 square feet of the roof surface. A complex or steep roof can drive up the labor cost. Other factors that increase the cost of labor are the type of roof, material pricing, and local labor rates.
When you get a quote from a contractor, make sure you’re both clear on the square footage. This is the area covered by the roof, and it includes living spaces like bedrooms, dining rooms, and kitchens. However, it doesn’t include garages, basements, or exterior walls.
You can also find a lender that offers a home equity loan to cover the cost of a roof replacement. This is a great way to get the roof you want without breaking the bank upfront. You can even use a credit card to finance the project, though this will have an effect on your credit score.
Materials
The roof is a crucial element of the home and protects the inhabitants from weather elements. It’s important to select the right roofing material based on the climate in your area, your budget and aesthetic preferences. A professional roofer can help you make the right decision. Some popular options include asphalt shingles, wood shingle, clay and concrete tiles, and metal roofs. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are more durable and have a longer lifespan than others. Some are also easier to maintain. Other factors to consider include cost, energy efficiency, and installation time.
Before the contractor starts working, they’ll remove any existing shingles from your roof. They’ll use a shingle fork to pry them off, starting at the top and working their way down. They’ll then dispose of the old shingles in trash cans or dumpsters near your house. They’ll also replace any soft or rotten wood decking that’s in need of repair.
Once the old shingles have been removed, the contractors will install the new roof materials. They’ll start with the shingle layer, which is typically made of asphalt. This is a good option for most homes because it’s inexpensive and durable. It can withstand a lot of wind and sunlight. However, it’s not the best choice for humid or cold climates.
Wood shingle roofs are a more expensive alternative to asphalt shingles and come in various styles. Some are sawmilled for uniformity, while others are split into wedges and have a more natural look. They’re a better choice for traditional or historic homes, but they won’t last as long in damp climates. Clay and slate tiles are another popular roofing option, but they’re very heavy and can add a lot of cost to the project.
Metal roofs are an excellent choice for modern homes because they’re durable and energy-efficient. They’re also fire-resistant and can withstand strong winds. You can choose from a variety of metals, including galvanized steel, aluminum, and copper. Copper and galvalume will oxidize over time to create a beautiful patina while aluminum will keep its silver, raw metal appearance.
Installation
A roof replacement is a massive project that requires expert craftsmanship. It is one of the most expensive home improvement projects and can have an impact on the resale value of your house. That’s why it’s important to find the right contractor for the job. In addition to a solid track record and experience, you want to make sure that the company is licensed, insured and follows local building codes. A good way to do this is to check with your local building department. They may have a list of recommended contractors or can recommend one themselves.
The first step in a roof replacement is to tear off the old shingles and underlayment. The roofers will carefully remove the existing materials to prevent damage to the underlying structure. Ideally, the underlying sheathing should be inspected for water and other problems before proceeding to install the new roofing materials.
After the old shingles are removed, a layer of felt or a breathable synthetic underlayment will be installed on the entire surface of your roof. The underlayment will help to protect the underlying wood and prevent moisture from penetrating into the interior of your home. Next, the roofers will install a pre cut starter course shingle on the roof perimeter to seal the first row of shingles down. The sheathing of the roof will be inspected for any rot or water damage and repaired as necessary. A galv’d metal drip edge and valley flashings will also be installed. In areas that get snow, ice dam protection will be installed to prevent melting ice from backing up under the shingles and damaging the sheathing.
Depending on the size and type of roof, the installation process can take anywhere from a few days to a week. It’s important to remember that your roof is not just shingles, but an entire system of underlayment, flashings and other components that must be properly installed for the best results. Special features such as skylights, dormer windows and chimneys require additional flashing and special roofing materials. It is also possible that your home’s pitch can limit the types of shingles you can use.
Maintenance
Ownership of a home requires ongoing maintenance, from yard work and painting to changing A/C filters. But one of the most important things homeowners can do is properly maintain their roofs. Keeping up with the right maintenance can save them thousands in repairs and extend the life of their roofs by years.
Roof maintenance involves a wide range of tasks that prevent rot, mold and water leaks. It also helps the roof withstand heavy rains, hail and high winds. These tasks include removing leaves and debris from the roof, checking the flashing around chimneys, skylights and vents, and re-caulking as needed.
Most roof problems are caused by water penetrating the surface materials and causing damage beneath, so many maintenance tasks are geared toward ensuring that the roof is water resistant and spotting potential problem areas before they get out of hand. For example, a small split in the wall flashing or an open pitch pocket left unattended can lead to major interior damage, expensive emergency repairs, and premature roof failure.
Other maintenance tasks include ensuring that the gutter system is free of blockages, and that the vents, chimneys, and skylights are sealed. Generally, maintenance workers will inspect the interior of the roof as well to make sure the vapor barrier and insulation are in good condition. They will also check the ridge and soffit vents for proper operation and to make sure there are no signs of water leaks.
Choosing whether to repair or replace an old roof depends on various factors including the age of the roof, the extent of the damage and the homeowner’s budget limitations. It is important to carefully evaluate the pros and cons of each option so that a decision is made that will provide maximum service life for the property.
A full roof replacement usually involves a lot of additional costs beyond the cost of the new materials and labor. The cost of hauling away the old materials, local disposal fees and labor for the cleanup is often overlooked by homeowners. In addition, the pitch of the roof, special features such as dormer windows and skylights, and other factors can add up to significant expenses during a roof replacement.