You’ve decided that it’s time to replace your roof. Maybe you’re planning this because you know your roof is old, or maybe you’ve seen signs of damage, but you know the time is right. Replacing your roof is a big project and many homeowners are overwhelmed by the process. Choosing a contractor, choosing materials, and preparing your property are all things you’ll need to do during a roof replacement. Knowing what to expect can make the process much more manageable.
Be Wary of Roofing Over Old Shingles
Many homeowners are in danger of being seduced by the possibility of layering their new roof on top of the existing roof. Roof removal and disposal is a big part of the cost. However, in nearly every case, it’s a bad idea. Your roofer won’t be able to examine the decking for any underlying problems, the new roof will not last as long, the extra weight can put a lot of stress on your home’s structure, and the ultimate cost of removing and disposing of two sets of shingles in a few years will quickly negate any savings. Unless you have several roofing contractors assuring you that you are the perfect candidate for layering, be very wary of any roof contractor who tries to steer you in this direction.
Hire a Local Roof Contractor
Hiring a company to replace your roof can be overwhelming. There are likely many roofing companies who want your business. Sticking with a local roof contractor with local references is one of the smartest moves you can make. You want a local roof contractor with an excellent reputation in your community. Contractors thrive on referrals, so a local roof contractor with plenty of referrals is likely to do a good job on your roof replacement as well in order to keep that reputation. It is important to get several thorough estimates and make sure every contractor you talk to has their licensing and insurance paperwork up to date. Each estimate should include an inspection of your roof and should encompass everything from necessary repairs to roof removal, clean up, and disposal when the new roof is finished.
Choose Quality Roofing Materials
Replacing your roof requires more choices that most homeowners realize. There are numerous choices for materials and colors. The right contractor can help you find affordable materials that fit the style of your home and carry warranties that will protect your investment. Your roof is protecting your home and you don’t want to go for the cheapest price which will be lower in quality, but you also don’t want to spend more than you need to. Finding a local roof contractor you can trust will make the process of choosing the materials much easier, as they can guide you toward quality materials that will last without breaking your budget.
Make Sure Your Roofer is Prepared to Protect Your Property
Ask the right questions and make sure that your roofer will protect your property during the process. Ask where they will put the refuse container for the old shingles. You don’t want to finish a roofing job that was a major investment and find that now you need to repair a driveway that cracked under the weight of a dumpster. Ask how your roofing contractor will protect your gutters during the process and how they intend to protect your landscaping. Finally, ask how they will protect your home in case of inclement weather during the roofing process. Your contractor should have specific answers based on experience to all of these questions and should be available throughout the process if you have any concerns.
Having a roof replaced is a big investment that many homeowners will not need to go through more than once, so it’s common to feel overwhelmed by the project. Doing your research, knowing what to expect, and asking the right questions can make your roof replacement much less stressful. We’re here to help. Contact Armorvue Home Exteriors for a virtual appointment to discuss replacing your roof today!
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