Needing to replace your roof can be a much smoother process if you have an understanding of what you need, and what to expect.
Roofing Repair or Replacement
You want to repair your roof if there’s minor damage due to high winds or fallen tree limbs. If only small areas of your roof are affected and you will just need some repairs to prevent leaks and replace broken shingles. However if your entire roof is showing a lot of signs of wear then it’s probably a good idea to go ahead and do a roof replacement while crews are already on-site. But it’s important to first determine if this is what you need. Before making an investment as big as repairing or replacing a roof, you will want to interview different roofing contractors, or at least get a second opinion.
Here are signs that indicate you need to replace your roof:
Your roof is old: One of the factors that determine whether you need to replace your roof or not is its age. Although you haven’t noticed any sign that your roof is near its life expectancy, it’s better to replace it in advance instead of waiting for visible damages. Thus, know what material is used for your roof and check the life expectancy below.
- Asphalt shingles: 15 to 40 years
- Three-tab shingles: 18 to 20
- Architectural shingles: 18 to 20 years
- Wood shingles: 30 to 40 years
- Wood shakes: 20 to 40 years
- Clay tile: 50 years or longer
- Metal: 70 years
- Slate: 100 years or longer
The shingles are in bad shape: Shingles begin to curl and break over time because of heat, moisture, strong winds, and lightning storms. When this happens, water will penetrate the sheathing layers, which will result in rot. Repairing the roof won’t be enough, especially if the cracks can be seen on different areas of the roof, so a complete replacement is what you need.
Moss and molds are thriving: Although moss doesn’t automatically signify that you need replacement, this could be an indication of a potential problem. This is because shingles are designed to allow water to roll into the gutters. But, when moss is present, it will absorb the water, causing the water to be seeped into the layer of the shingles, and cause mold growth and roof damage.
If you’ve seen these signs on your roof, it’s time for a roof replacement. Schedule an appointment with professional companies that provide top-notch customer service and high-quality materials, such as Roofing Contractors Franklin TN and get your roof done as soon as possible.
Know Your Roofing Materials
There are different types of shingles and each has its strengths and weaknesses depending on the climate, the budget of the client, and other factors. The most common shingle types are asphalt and metal, but there are also metal, flagstone, and even plastic shingles.
Roof flashing is a finished piece of sheet metal, typically made of galvanized steel or aluminum, that is installed around joints to make your roof watertight by deflecting water down and away so it rolls off the side of your house. Flashing covers the perpendicular area where vertical and horizontal portions meet, such as where your roof meets your chimney or vent stacks. Without this, water would leak into your house from rain and snow.
Decide On How Many Shingle Layers
It is possible to put a second layer of shingles over an existing layer, but your roof will have to already be in top condition. So you will need to make a decision as to whether or not you’re going to remove the shingles you have now before installing new shingles, or if you’re going to layer them over the original layer. This latter option is a lot quicker to do and it is less expensive. Since you cannot have more than two layers of shingles on your roof, if you already have a double layer of shingles on the roof that has problems, then that layer will need to be removed..
Get Everything In Writing
Before your roofer starts any steps onto your property you want to have signed a contract that clearly explains everything you have spoken about everything you’ve agreed upon with your roofer. There are many key decisions that you need to make before work begins such as:
- Layering
- Shingle type and color
- How much of the roof is being worked on (full replacement or partial replacements)
- All costs associated with your project, including labor and materials
What To Expect When Work Is Being Done
During the time that roofers are working you’re going to experience a lot of noise in your own home especially over the area where they are working. If you have small children or work from home, then you will want to make other arrangements during the time roofers are working on your property. You will also want to make sure that there are no cars in your driveway as debris can fall off on your roof and damage your vehicle. If you cannot leave your home then be sure to make a plan with them to protect your vehicles.
