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Whether renovating or preparing it for sale, your roof is one of the most important investments when it comes to your home. A solid, well-constructed roof serves as the canopy that ensures your home is free from issues like mold, excess moisture, and water damage.
Unfortunately, many homeowners are finding issues related to a failing roof. Besides age, this can occur because of several factors such as improper installation, poor materials, or lack of maintenance.
Another common cause of a roof needing to be replaced is when a roofing repair service fails to fix minor issues correctly, causing the issue to grow and snowball into others. Sadly, this results in homeowners having to foot the bill for an emergency roofing service to bail them out
How do I know I need a new roof?
The first thing to determine is if your roof can be repaired or requires replacement. Don’t call a professional quite yet. The first step is to get into your attack and see if you can spot any beams of light shining through from the top or under the eaves.
Depending on the amount of light coming through, you will get a pretty good idea of whether you need to start getting estimates for a new roof.
It may also be time to replace the roof if you notice shingles not laying flat or shingle granules collecting in your gutters.
A drooping or sagging roof strongly indicates that a new roof is needed. Also, plants such as moss growing on your shingles may indicate moisture trapped within your roof. If you don’t want it to spread to the rest of your house, causing things like mold damage, you should look to get it replaced.
How long does a roof last?
You should look at the maintenance paperwork to see the age of your roof.
For reference, asphalt roofs tend to last between 20-25 years. Slate, copper, and tile roofs can last more than 50 years. Depending on the type of metal roof you have, it can range between 25 and 50 years. Wood shakes, and shingles can last up to 30 years as long as you maintain them yearly.
If your roof is reaching the end of its lifespan, replacement may be the best, most cost-effective option long term.
How much does it cost to replace a roof?
The cost involved depends on many factors, including where you live, cost of materials, labor, competition amongst roofing companies, and the type of roof you want to be installed.
With that said, assuming the size of a 2,200 square foot home, the median price for a new roof is $8,314, with the low end sitting at $5,443 and the high end-capping out at $11,209.
These estimates are based on the national average and can fluctuate drastically depending on where you live. Most professional full-service roofing companies will come by your home and provide a free estimate.
What should I look for in a roofing service?
That brings us to the next important question. How do I find the best roofing service near me? Who installs your roof is just as important as what materials you use.
When determining the most qualified roofing service, it’s important to consider the following.
● How long have they been in business?
● Do they have correct licensing and insurance?
● Do they have references or a portfolio of work?
● Do they have experience working on similar homes with similar roofs?
● What is their timeframe?
● What kind of warranty or quality assurance do they provide?
In addition to asking these questions, it is important to get multiple estimates, ideally three. This lets you understand the price range to more accurately determine your budget.
When financing your roof, make sure that the company you choose documents every step of how the financing process will work.
Reputable companies such as Accent Roofing Service make it a point to provide detailed, transparent agreements, so homeowners know exactly what they are getting into.
Another good way to determine if a roofing service is the right fit is to knock on some of your neighbor’s doors that may have had their roof replaced in the last few years to see who did theirs and how they liked the experience. Sometimes word of mouth is the best research tool of all.
Should I hire a professional Roofing Service or do it myself?
The simple answer is that you should hire a professional. Unless you have experience in roofing, the number of potential challenges and hazards often outweigh what savings you would get from doing it yourself.
Apart from the physical danger, many counties and townships prohibit homeowners from going anywhere near a roof install. Getting proper permits can also be a hassle that most people would soon avoid.
How long will it take to replace a roof?
The time it will take for your new roof to be installed can vary. With the boom of new construction and renovations happening across the country, you will have to wait for your spot in line. Some roofing services are booked out six months or more in advance.
How long it takes will also be determined by the size of the install crew, weather, and most importantly, the type of roof being installed.
Asphalt shingles can take two to three days, while tile roofs can take up to two weeks. Metal roofs common in southern climates can take up to five days. It is best to get an accurate time from your roofing service before you sign the dotted line.
While installing a new roof is an expensive and large undertaking, selecting the right professional roofing service will make the process much easier. It is important to continually ask questions to get the clarity you need about the entire process.
A good roofing service will be more than happy to answer any questions you have to make sure you are on the same page.
