Re-Roofing? What You Need to Know Before Making a Decision

Your roof won't last forever. Even the best quality products, installed with the highest craftsmanship standards, won't continue to function properly for an infinite period of time. At some point your roof will leak, shingles will curl and buckle, wood will rot, and the repair costs will start adding up. When this happens, it's time for a new roof.

Re-roofing a home is a major home improvement that you want to be done right the first time around. That means preparing for the project. What steps do you need to take before the first shingle, piece of metal or other roofing product goes on to your home? Take a look at the major factors that go into the planning process.

There isn't a one-price-fits-all re-roofing estimate. Your house has its own needs, and that means it comes with its own costs. While there are general estimates for certain types of materials, this won't include additional costs and the labor. For example, an existing roof that's worn down to the attic's rafters requires extra attention (and extra materials) during the new roof's install.

When you're creating a budget, consider all of the factors. Talk to a professional contractor and find out what your re-roofing project really includes. Do you just need new exterior materials? Will you also need a new sub-roof? Are your gutters still functioning or will you need repairs/replacements for these as well? Along with these questions, ask the contractor whether any special issues may add on to the overall price of the labor.

Keep in mind that a new roof adds value to your home. The average homeowner (who later sells their house) recoups over 68% of the roofing replacement costs. Skimping on your re-roofing budget may mean that you aren't adding as much value as you could. While going into debt to buy a new roof isn't wise, you need to balance what you can reasonably spend with what will add the most overall value.

What's your home's style? Your existing exterior is a major factor when it comes to which materials you choose for your re-roofing project. A traditional classic or rustic style house won't look right with Mediterranean clay tiles on top. Likewise, a sleek modern home may not match with a wood shake roof.

There are a wide variety of roofing materials available. Talk to your contractor about your options. They have experience planning and completing projects in different styles, and can use their expertise to guide your planning process.

Understanding the factors that go into your roof's lifespan can help you to pick the perfect material. Look at the overall weather patterns and climate in your area. Hot weather, constant rain, tropical storm conditions, ice, and other issues can all impact even the most durable roof's life.

In general, asphalt shingles have the shortest lifespan. This type of roof typically lasts up to 20 years. Consistently hot weather can reduce the life of asphalt shingles, giving your roof less time than you'd expect. Wood shingles also have a lifespan that rates on the shorter end of the roofing spectrum. With an average of 25 years, this type of roof may also not stand up well under constant hot sunlight or other weather extremes.

If you're looking for a roof that is durable and stands the test of time, clay, concrete, and slate products can last well over a century. Metal roofing also has a long lifespan, lasting anywhere from 40 to 80 years.

Are you ready for a new roof? Gurrs Roofing, Heating and Sheet Metal can help you through the re-roofing process.