Whether you plan to stay in your home as long as possible or sell soon, you likely want a good roof to protect the inside of your home. For this reason, monitor your roof for damage and replace it when necessary. If you would like to learn more, check out these four commonly asked questions about roof replacement.
1. What Does Roof Replacement Involve?
Depending on the condition of your roof, you can replace it in multiple ways. In most cases, the roofers remove the old shingles and then replace them with new ones. They then install or replace the flashing. However, if the contractors notice underlying damage to the wood structure after removing the shingles, they may need to make repairs. If the roof is particularly old or damaged, the entire roof structure may need replacing.
In rare cases, you may forgo a roof replacement for an overlay. During an overlay, the roofing contractors lay new shingles down over old ones. This, however, adds weight to the roof, and it prevents contractors from seeing the extent of the roof’s damage. However, this type of process is faster and less expensive than a total roof replacement.
2. When Should You Replace Your Roof?
Roofs tend to last a long time, especially with good maintenance, but all roofs have their expected lifespan. Common asphalt shingles, for example, tend to last 20 to 25 years. Therefore, if your roof is getting older and needs repairs, replacing it may be a better choice. Repairing an old roof could lead to wasted money if the repairs don’t last.
Naturally, regardless of your roof’s age, some signs indicate major problems. A sagging roof could indicate underlying rot or roof separation. Regardless of the cause, this increases the risk of leaks, and water can pool where the roof sags. Other signs to watch for include visible holes, missing or damaged shingles, moss growth, and water damage inside the home.
3. What Materials Are Best?
You have many roofing materials from which to choose, so choosing the best one for you may seem difficult. Asphalt, the most common roofing material, is inexpensive and light, but asphalt roofs don’t last as long as other roofs, forcing you to spend more money in the long run.
Metal roofs are another popular option because they tend to be affordable and lightweight. Metal roofs are more durable than asphalt roofs, so they usually last longer, but many homeowners find metal roofs unpleasant, especially if they start to develop patina.
Slate is not as common because it is one of the most expensive roofing materials. Plus, slate is heavy, so it may not work on every roof. If your roof has a low slope, it may not be strong enough to support slate tiles. However, you get what you pay for because slate tile roofs can last a long time.
4. How Much Does a New Roof Cost?
The exact cost of your roof depends on many factors, including the material, necessary repairs, size of the roof, slope of the roof, or current demand. In general, however, asphalt shingles cost between $1 and $4.25 per square foot. Metal shingles, on the other hand, may cost as much as $5.25 to $12.50 per square foot. Slate tiles can cost as much as $15.88 per square foot, but solar shingles are the most expensive at $24.25 per square foot.
A new roof is an investment in your home’s future. It can boost the value of the home, but it also keeps you and your family safe. If you would like to learn more, or if you would like to request a quote for roof replacement, contact us at Rays Harford Home Improvement Contractors Inc. today.
Leave a comment
Open Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 5 pm | 410-893-3037
Whether you plan to stay in your home as long as possible or sell soon, you likely want a good roof to protect the inside of your home. For this reason, monitor your roof for damage and replace it when necessary. If you would like to learn more, check out these four commonly asked questions about roof replacement.
