Replacing a roof isn’t something that most people do every day (unless you’re in the roofing business!) – but it’s something that many homeowners will face at some point. It can be an expensive endeavor, and it pays to know what signs to look for to determine if you need a new roof, what to expect during a replacement, and how to get the most bang for your buck.
In this blog post, let’s dive into the basics of roof replacement: from figuring out when you need a new one to what to consider when moving forward with a full roof replacement project so that your home is ready for its newest upgrade!
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Roof
If you’ve been living in your home for a while, you know how important it is to keep up with maintenance to keep your home in top shape. One essential part of your home that you may not think about often is your roof. Your roof protects you and your family from the elements, so it’s vital to keep an eye on it to make sure it’s not wearing out.
Here are some things to look for to determine if it’s time to replace your roof:
- Cracked or missing shingles: If you notice shingles that are cracked, curled, or missing, it’s a sign that your roof is starting to wear out.
- Visible light coming through the roof: Have a new skylight that you didn’t intend? If light is shining through your roof, something is obviously not right! This could mean that there are gaps or holes in the roof that should be addressed.
- Water damage in the attic: If you see water stains or signs of water damage in the attic, it’s a sign that your roof is not doing its job anymore.
- Sagging or drooping roof: If your roof appears to be sagging or drooping, it’s time to call in a professional. The structural integrity of your roof is at risk, and it’s important to resolve this as soon as possible.
- Mold, mildew, or moss growth on the roof: This type of growth is a sign that moisture is getting under your roof’s shingles and could be damaging the structure.
- Age of your roof: Even though most roofing companies promise a 30-year lifespan for a roof, the hard truth is most roofs last between 20-25 years. If your roof is approaching or exceeding this age, it’s time to start considering a replacement. Additionally, roofs installed after 2001 typically have a shorter lifespan due to changes in how shingles are made. Shingles produced after 2001 are thinner and less durable than those produced prior to 2001.
Remember, it’s essential to keep your home in good condition, and one of the best ways to do that is by keeping an eye on your roof. Catching signs of wear and tear early can save you time, money, and a whole lot of headaches down the road. If you’re not sure if your roof needs replacing, give us a call for a free roof assessment.
What to Consider When Replacing Your Roof
If it’s time to replace your roof, it’s best to be prepared and consider the different factors that an affect not only your budget, but also how long your new roof will last. While replacing a roof can be a daunting task for any homeowner, being prepared can help alleviate stress and manage expectations on the day of installation.
There are many things to consider before undertaking a roof replacement project, and doing your research ahead of time can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.
Here are several things to consider when replacing your roof:
DIY vs. Professionals: One of the first things to consider is whether you will be doing the job yourself or hiring a professional contractor. While replacing a roof may seem like something you can tackle on your own, it can be a dangerous and time-consuming process. Hiring a professional contractor can ensure the job is done safely and efficiently.
Types of Materials: What kind of roof do you want? How do you want it to look? There are many different types of shingles to choose from, including asphalt, slate, metal, and more. Each material has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research and choose the best option for your specific needs and budget.
Stripping vs. Layering: Some roofing contractors will recommend “layering” your new roof rather than stripping. Layering is when the new shingles are installed over top of the old shingles and roof substrate. While layering new shingles can save time and money, it can also cover up underlying issues that may need to be addressed and often voids the manufacturer’s warranty. Stripping off the old material and starting fresh can ensure your new roof is installed on a solid foundation.
Noise and Mess: The one guarantee – no matter which contractor you choose – is a roof replacement will be messy and noisy. Ask your contractor how they will protect your property from damage during the project. Will they use tarps to protect landscaping? Will they be able to protect nearby structures like sheds, cars, and other belongings? Check references to see if the company does a good job cleaning up at the end of the project. Remember – a roof replacement typically creates a large amount of waste so you’ll want to know how the contractor is cleaning up. Some projects can create nearly 1,000 pounds of debris!
It should also come as no surprise that a replacement is NOISY. Make sure to communicate with your contractor ahead of time to understand what to expect and plan accordingly.
Investment: While replacing a roof can be a costly project, a new roof can also add value to your home and protect it from damage in the long run. Make sure to get quotes from multiple contractors and compare the cost of different materials to find the best option for your budget.
It may be tempting to choose the contractor with the lowest price, however, make sure you research the companies you are considering. Check their Google and Better Business Bureau reviews and talk to friends and family who have had their roofs replaced.
PRO TIP: Some contractors will offer lower prices because they use low-quality materials or will skip important steps such as using a water and ice barrier, drip edge, or flashings. Each of these components will help your roof last longer and avoid premature aging.
Warranties: The final thing to consider, and oftentimes the most important, is the type and length of warranties provided by your contractor. There are two types of warranties to consider – workmanship warranties and material manufacturer warranties.
Manufacturer warranties cover defects in the materials themselves and are often limited in scope. Manufacturer warranties are only good if your contractor follows the manufacturer’s installation specifications. If they skipped a step in the installation process and you have an issue, the manufacturer likely won’t cover any loss or defect. In fact, the warranty is void on day one. At Roof Maxx Mechanicsburg, we install Atlas Pinnacle Pristine roofing systems for roof replacement projects. We follow their installation specifications to the tee to give you the best warranties available.
Workmanship warranties protect you against errors during the installation process. This means if something goes wrong due to a mistake made by the contractor, they will be responsible for fixing it at no additional cost. Many companies give a 5-year warranty – don’t you think your investment should last more than 5 years? At Roof Maxx Mechanicsburg, we provide a 15-year workmanship warranty, usually the highest in the market.
Replacing a roof is a big job that requires careful consideration, research, and planning. By taking into account these factors, you can make an informed decision that ensures your home is protected and beautiful for years to come. Unsure of where to start with a roof replacement project? We’re happy to help you get the process started and answer any questions!
Get to Know Your Roof with a Free Roof Assessment
If you’ve had a contractor tell you your roof needs to be replaced – give us a call! Some roofing contractors will replace roofs prematurely when a better and more budget-friendly option is to do repair work. Get a second opinion with our free roof assessment!
Our comprehensive roof assessment takes a look at the condition of your entire roofing system including the age and condition of the shingles, flashings, and ridge vent, and we even take a peek in your attic space to look for signs of leaks and damage.
Based on the outcome of your roof assessment, we can make repairs, extend the life of your asphalt roof with a Roof Maxx treatment, or if your roof is past its prime, we can do a replacement. We provide options!
