Learning the Basics Before Roof Replacement

Installing a brand new roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll make with regard to home improvement. While it’s not the most glamorous type of home improvement project, especially when compared to interior renovations, it is extremely important in that it will better shield your home against the elements and prevent water from getting into your home, where it can cause some significant damage.

Before you decide to make the investment in roof replacement, it’s important that you understand exactly what you’re getting yourself into. With that in mind, here’s a brief overview of some of the basic information you need to know before replacing your roof.

Choosing roofing materials

You’ll need to determine the type of roofing materials you want to use, and you’ll certainly have plenty of options. Asphalt shingles are the most common and also the least expensive, but they aren’t quite as attractive as some of the other options. You can also choose metal roofing, which has seen a big boost in popularity in recent years due to its increasing aesthetic appeal and its fireproof nature. Other options include slate and composition slate roofing, clay and ceramic tile and wood shakes or shingles.

Full tear-off versus second layer

It used to be a common practice to put new shingle roofs on top of existing layers, though in some areas this practice is now outlawed, with a complete tear-off being required. If layering is allowed in your area, it still may or may not be the best option, depending on several factors.

One such factor is the weight. Putting additional layers of shingles on the roof increases the burden on the underlying framing, which could result in structural issues, especially in older houses. Another problem is that by installing new shingles on top of old ones, you might repeat some of the surface irregularities that are causing some of the problems in your roofs.

However, the process does reduce the amount of work and the amount of time it’ll take to get the job done, and it can eliminate some waste.

Cost expectations

What can you expect to pay for a brand new roof? It really depends on the contractor you work with, the pitch of your roof, the square footage of the roof and the materials you choose. For example, 50-year shingle installation will likely cost $11,000 to $20,000, while aluminum shingles cost $15,000 to $28,000 on average. Your contractor can provide you with a more accurate estimate for your specific job, but it helps to get multiple quotes.

Timing

Offseason roofing work can be beneficial in a variety of ways. You might get lower prices during the offseason as the demand for the labor is low. There’s even a chance you’ll have the job done more quickly, because more laborers will be available during the seasons that aren’t as busy.

For more information about replacing your roof, contact the roofing contractors at Dallas Cherry Roofing and we will be happy to answer any questions you have.

Categorised in: Roof Replacement, Roofing Contractor

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