Roofs are a critical part of your home’s protection from the elements. They also add to the overall value of your property.
There are a few things you should know before installing a new roof to ensure that the process goes smoothly and that you get the best results. Read on to learn more!
1. Know Your Roof
Your roof is an important part of your home’s protection from the elements. It also impacts its appeal to potential buyers – so it’s important to keep your roof in good condition.
Keeping your roof in good condition is one of the best ways to minimize the costs associated with roofing repairs and prevent leaks from causing water damage inside your home. However, even the most durable roofs will have to be replaced from time to time, so it’s important to know what signs indicate when your roof may need a replacement.
If your roof is more than 25 to 30 years old, it may need a complete replacement. This is a serious investment, so it’s important to consider how long your current roof has been in place before you decide to replace it.
While you’re inspecting your roof, look for dark stains caused by algae or moss. This is another sign that your roof needs to be replaced soon, as it can cause a lot of structural damage to your house and can lead to mold growth, which can affect the quality of air you breathe.
If you are unsure whether your roof needs to be replaced, consult with a professional roofing contractor. They will be able to determine the exact age of your roof and give you an accurate estimate for the cost of replacing it.
2. Know Your Roofer
A roof is a huge investment, so it makes sense to choose the right contractor for the job. You’ll want to find out if the company you hire has a good reputation, whether they do good work and how much they charge for their services.
You’ll also want to look for a good roofer who uses high-quality materials and offers a warranty that protects your home and family. Choosing the wrong roofing material for your home could end up costing you more money in the long run.
It’s a good idea to get multiple estimates from different companies before making your decision. Ask to see examples of their work and ask if they’re willing to show you any references or previous projects.
One of the most important things to know about your roofer is how they will remove the old shingles. They should use the most environmentally friendly methods possible, as this will reduce your carbon footprint and help prevent future damage to your property.
You should also make sure to mark out any bushes, trees or landscaping elements that may be in the way of the roofing crew’s tools and equipment. It’s also a good idea to put up netting over your prized plants and flowers, so they don’t get damaged in the process.
3. Know Your Materials
When it comes to roofing materials, there are many options out there. But before you make your final choice, there are a few things you need to know.
The best roofs are made of premium quality materials that last for years to come and stand up to the rigors of everyday use. They also look great and add value to your home.
One of the most common materials used in roofs is asphalt shingles, which can be a great choice for homeowners who want to save money while still keeping their homes safe and dry. They also come in a wide array of colors and styles.
Another good option is metal roofing, which can be a great complement to older houses. They’re also available in a variety of shapes and designs, and they’re surprisingly durable.
Other materials worth considering include tile, slate and solar panels. They may cost more than asphalt shingles but are worth the extra money in terms of performance and longevity. The best way to find out which material is right for you is to do your research and compare products from different manufacturers. Fortunately, there are some great online resources that can help you get started.
4. Know Your Warranty
A new roof is a major investment for most homeowners, and warranties are an important way to protect your home from costly repairs and replacements. Knowing what type of warranty you have, how it works, and how to use it if something goes wrong will give you peace of mind and help you avoid costly surprises down the road.
There are two types of warranties you may be offered by a contractor: workmanship and manufacturer. These vary in length, but they both provide coverage against leaks caused by faulty workmanship and materials.
Workmanship warranties are usually provided by the roofing contractor who installed your roof. They typically last between two and five years, though some contractors offer longer coverage periods.
If you have a workmanship warranty, be sure to read the fine print. Many contractors will try to hide things in the warranty, and this can make it difficult for you to understand what is covered and what is not.
You can also void your warranty if you do not follow proper maintenance practices, such as cleaning your roof regularly and getting regular inspections. These can include removing debris, ensuring that gutters are in good condition, and making necessary repairs.
5. Know Your Insurance
A new roof is a major investment, so it’s important to know what your insurance policy covers. The time frame for filing a claim depends on the type of damage and your insurance company, so it’s essential to contact your insurer as soon as you spot any signs of damage.
Your deductible will also vary depending on what perils caused the damage. This could mean that you’ll need to pay your deductible first before your insurance company will reimburse you for your roof’s repair or replacement costs.
You should also consider a home warranty for extra protection if your insurance doesn’t cover windstorm or hail damage. This is especially true if your home is located in an area with frequent storms.
Before work starts, make sure your contractor moves any outdoor furniture away from the house and covers any foundation plants to protect them from a potential splatter of roofing materials. Have him walk around the perimeter of the property with a magnetic sweeper to pick up any nails that might fall from the shingles during installation. These tips will help ensure a smooth roofing process. Remember, a new roof is an investment that can last for many years, so be prepared!
6. Know Your Budget
A new roof is a significant investment, so you need to know how much it will cost before you start the project. It’s best to seek out estimates from at least three contractors and compare their costs. This will allow you to make an informed decision. Largo roofers are more than willing to give you a quote so be sure to get in contact with them.
Your budget should include all the expenses you need for the project, such as materials, roofing, and labor. You may also need to pay for travel to and from the job site, and some people opt to hire a cleaning service to clean up after the work is complete.
Fortunately, there are many ways to save money on a roof replacement. One way is to get a few months’ worth of estimates before starting the project. This will give you a clearer idea of what your total expense will be and help you determine what areas of your life can be reduced or replaced with cheaper alternatives.
It’s also important to consider your home’s climate when deciding on the right type of roof for your home. For example, a white roof like TPO is less expensive than a heat-welded hot BUR (built-up roofing system). However, it can take longer to get the benefits of this material in warmer climates such as Florida and the Pacific Northwest.
7. Know Your Options
When choosing a new roof, you have a number of options to consider. Some of them are better for your home than others, so take the time to consider these before settling on one. For example, if your house has a lot of different tones in its masonry, a dark-colored asphalt shingle may be a better choice than a lighter one. In addition, it is important to check if your roofing shingle comes with a warranty that can be transferred to the next owner of the property.
