Installing a new roof is a major project. Before you start, you want to make sure you have the right home roofing contractors for the job, as well as answers for all of your most important questions. This roofing FAQ provides an overview of important things to keep in mind before, during, and after you install a new roof, so you can make the best decisions.
How Do You Tell If a Roof Needs Replacing?
Several signs can indicate when a roof needs replacement. Curled, buckling, and broken shingles are dead giveaways. Sunlight coming through the roof and wet spots on your ceiling, attic, and/or crawl spaces are other clear signs.
If your roof has problems, and you think repair may be a better option than a replacement ? or vice versa ? contact a professional home roofing contractor, and have a full inspection performed to identify the best solution.
How Do You Choose the Right Contactor?
Choosing the right home roofing contractor can be difficult. Any home roofing contractor you consider should provide you with a clearly written proposal in language you understand. Essential items that should appear in a roof work proposal include:
- Materials for the job
- Scope of the project
- Installation method
- Approximate dates for start and completion
- Payment procedures
- Descriptions of warranties
Contractors should also readily answer any questions you may have before the project commences and throughout its duration. Checking a home roofing contractor’s work background ? including licensing, certifications, and local reviews online ? is also highly recommended.
What are the Costs of a New Roof?
The price of a new roof varies widely. Factors that determine cost include: materials used, square footage of the roof, number of stories in the home, and cost of labor. The time of year a roof project is performed also impacts cost. Late summer and autumn are usually the most expensive times, while winter is the most cost-effective.
Getting an estimate from several home roofing contractors will help you find the right service for your budget, but don’t let costs alone determine which contractor hire. Also consider a contractor’s experience installing the type of roof you want, as well as the business’ experience working with your type of building (commercial or residential).
What Type of Roofing is Best?
When determining which type of roof is right for your home, consider more than the color and look of the finished product; you also need to consider materials when selecting your roof. Asphalt, tar shingles, composite coverings, and steel sheets are examples of roof materials that are great for some situations but not others. Speaking with your home roofing contractor can help you determine which type of roof system is best based on:
- Cost of each roof type
- Lifespan for each type
- How roof types respond to weather
- The slope of your home’s roof
- Types of roofs allowed by local building codes
Whether your home is small, medium size, or large, each of these factors can significantly impact the look, cost, and longevity of your roof. Taking time to research your upcoming roof project can greatly help with selecting the best option.
How Long Does it Take to Install a New Roof?
The timeline for a new roof installation depends on the extent of the project. If there is more than one layer in your old roof, this increases project time. So does installing new gutters. Weather is also a big factor in how long roof installation requires.
Typically, roofing projects last about three to four days for a total tear off and new installation. When determining project times, make sure home roofing contractors include time for cleanup of materials and debris after the roof is installed. Asking questions in person, can give you a clear picture regarding the scope and timelines for the installation.
What Can You do to Prepare for a New Installation?
This is one of the most important questions in our roofing FAQ, as there are steps you should take before a roof installation begins. Removing loose items from walls and shelves can protect them from falling due to vibrations caused by the installation. You should also clear the driveway, and keep items around the exterior of your home set far away, so they won’t be damaged by falling debris during the tear off process. This also gives home roofing contractors more room to work, allowing them to get the job done quickly.
What Problems Might Occur After Installation?
Following the installation of a new roof, you may notice leaks; especially, following a heavy rainstorm. This is commonly caused by shingles that are poorly installed, allowing moisture to seep in. Since shingle manufacturers now include lifetime warranties for their products, CHR&R contractors that work on your roof honor these warranties. We’ll take care of issues with shingles immediately, without additional cost to you.
How Long do Roofs Last?
Even the best roof will eventually wear away. Roof materials and typical weather conditions have the greatest impact on the lifespan of your roof, but 20 years is a common lifespan estimate.
Maintenance and routine inspections from home roofing contractors can help extend the lifespan. We offer a warranty on our work, to give you an estimate of how long you can expect your roof to be in great shape.