The roof of your living space is perhaps the most important element. Beyond providing the structural support to the building, it protects you from heat, cold, rain and snow. So keeping it in a good shape should be your top priority as a homeowner. When it comes to roof maintenance, you will need to keep a constant eye on its condition and get necessary repairs when required. Further, investing in complete replacement will also be essential at some point in time. Since roof replacement requires considerable time and money, you must make sure that you are fully prepared right from the start. Here are some things that you should consider before getting a roof replacement for your home.
Assess the requirement
First things first, you should start by assessing if you actually need a roof replacement at any point in time or can still manage with a repair only. Ideally, you will require a complete replacement once the house is two decades old because wear and tear is natural over such a long time span. Watch out for warning signs such as buckling and curling of shingles, sagging roof, daylight showing through the boards and gutters being full of shingles. A careful inspection by roof experts on a regular basis can help you understand when you need quick action.
Choose the right roofing material
Once you are sure that your home roof needs replacement, choosing the right roofing material is the next obvious step. There are traditional variants like asphalt and slate. At the same time, you can consider the modern trend of metal roofs as well. Remember that you should prioritize durability over everything else when it comes to choosing the right roofing material for your home. Other factors that you can bear in mind include appearance, budget, and current trends in roofing materials.
Decide whether you want layering or peeling
Another key aspect of roof replacement is the choice between layering on or peeling off. While layering means that you will have more layers of shingles installed on an old roof, peeling involves the removal of the existing shingles before putting up the new ones. Obviously, you will have to comply with the building code while deciding because it does not allow more than two layers of shingles on the roof. Peeling is the only option in such a case. It is also ideal for highly damaged roofs. On the other hand, you can opt for layering to save time and money for a relatively newer and less damaged roof.
Shop around for roofing contractors
Though you may be tempted to try DIY, roof replacement should be handled only by experts. Look around for the best roofing contractors in your area. You can ask around for recommendations because a friend or colleague who has recently hired a contractor will be the best person to suggest a good one. Going through this new post will help you with some useful tips for choosing the right roofing company for your project. Never compromise with the services even if you have to spend a little extra because a good contractor will definitely do a good job.
Verify their experience
After comparing the contractors and checking out the recommendations, you will be able to shortlist one or two companies that look good. Prioritize someone that has been in the domain for a reasonably good time because experience matters the most. Someone who has been around will obviously have worked on diverse projects with different complexities. This surely gives them an edge over someone who has just started.
Ask for a contract
Once you are sorted out with the choice of the roofing company, you must ask them for a written contract so that you have everything on paper. The contract should have the A to Z of the requirements listed on it, right from the area of the roof to be replaced to the color and type of shingles and the type of technique to be used. Also, make sure that the contract has the cost and timelines of the project so that there are no disputes at a later stage.
Gather other essential documents
Besides the contract with the roofing company, there are certain other essential documents that you need to have before starting with the replacement. Firstly, you require a building permit that ensures that the roofing contractor will adhere to the construction code and regulations in your area. Secondly, you need a letter from the insurance company of the contractor stating that the project is covered.
Ask about the warranty
Roof replacement is a big investment for any homeowner because you will have to spend a lot of materials and pay a hefty amount to the roofing company as well. So you should look for a company that covers you for an optimal warranty period in case you have any problems with the roofing early after replacement. Look for someone who provides at least 10 years of workmanship warranty if you to ensure a reliable collaboration.
Be prepared!
Besides ensuring that you make the apt choice of material and contractor for replacing your home roof, you should be prepared for the practical aspects too. The process will be loud, messy and time-consuming because the old shingles will have to be removed and new ones will be hammered in their place. If you have small children or pets, you may even have to consider moving out for a few days. Despite the mess and noise involved, you must have a replacement when you need it. The best advice is to go ahead and get it done by experts because they can complete the project within a minimal time span.
Beyond just making your home a better and safer place to live in, roof replacement increases its value as well. If you plan to sell the home anytime in the future, its roof must be in good condition to fetch you an excellent price for the property. So you must absolutely invest in this project when there is a need for it.
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