Since replacing a roof or installing a new one can be a very costly venture, it makes sense to understand what it entails. After all, you don’t want to go through the trouble of hiring a roofing company and paying thousands of dollars in other costs only to discover that it wasn’t the right kind of roofing.
The following are crucial whenever you’re considering installing a new roof.
1)Have Some Roof Inspection Done
If you’re concerned about the state of your roof, then it’s probably in need of repair or replacement. However, you can’t just decide to have a new roof installed without seeking the advice of a professional. Roof installation is a costly venture, not to mention that it’s also time-consuming. You want to get it right the first time around. Get some professional roofers to inspect your roof to determine if you need a new one.
2) Selecting the Right Materials
If you’ve decided to hire professional roofers, they’ll most likely recommend some materials. However, it would help if you were involved in the decision-making. Several factors should help guide your decision. For example, where you live could mean the summers are extremely hot. You’ll need roofing that accounts for this. Of course, the cost is always a factor. You don’t want to be way over your budget. Ordinarily, you can go with asphalt roofing shingles because they’re very economical. However, work with your roofing contractor to determine the best option for your house.
3) Layering on or Peeling Off
A roof may look like it has only one layer; however, it’s usually composed of several. This helps with temperature control and cushions the blow of natural forces like strong winds. If you intend to layer your existing shingles while having a new roof installed, it always helps to be aware of the building codes in your jurisdiction. For example, some municipalities forbid the use of more than two shingle layers when installing a new roof.
Always peel off the extra layers of shingles if you have more than one. The extra layer adds undue physical stress. Your roofer will know about this.
4) The State of Your Roof Frame
If your roof has had a history of serious leakage and sagging, it’s best to examine your roof frame. Even when installing a new roof, these supporting structures. For example, some roof frame areas may have disintegrated due to prolonged leakage. This can be a problem down the line if you decide to install a new roof without changing the roof frame.
5) Know Some General Roofing Lingo
If you’re not plugged into the roofing business, you’ll be unfamiliar with the industry jargon. For instance, a professional roofer may use “squares” when referring to the measurement and amount of roofing materials needed. It helps familiarize yourself with some of the basic terms and jargon professional roofers use. This will make communication easier and help you fully understand what you’re paying for.
6) Think About Ventilation
While you may not know it, proper ventilation is crucial to your new roof’s longevity and durability. Your roofer will properly recommend the right kind of window size and ventilators to aid in the proper aeration of your house. This is crucial, especially in temperate regions where summers can get very hot. Your new roof will most likely not reach its full lifespan without proper ventilation.
7) Consider Wind Resistance
Warranty is important when considering roof installation. This is because several things can lead to roof damage. Key among such destruction natural elements are strong winds. You need to understand how well (or not) your new roof will stand up to such environmental forces. If you live in regions that experience strong winds, tornadoes, or hurricanes, this is crucial as it could determine your roofing choice.
8) Remember that Roofing Can be Noisy
Never underestimate the noise and inconvenience that roof installation will cause. If you or your family are uncomfortable with the noise, staying somewhere else is best until the roof installation is complete. The last thing you want is the constant noise of hammering and stripping shingles and other roofing structures.
9) Keep Your Belongings in the Attic or Storage
Remember that the roofers will be walking up and down the house during the installation process, not to mention all the dust, dirt, and debris that’ll litter the place. It’s best to gather your belongings like suitcases and electronics and store them in the attic. If this isn’t an option, you can temporarily rent a storage facility to keep your things there.
10) Hire the Right Contractor
This should be at the top of your list. A good and experienced contractor will make a huge difference. You want to ensure that they’re honest about their business practices. This means no lowballing—the practice of quoting an initially low price for something to rope you in. Of course, you should check out their credentials and licensure. All the other factors require a good roofing contractor to ensure that everything works fine throughout the roofing process.
