Replacing your roof is a time-consuming and expensive project, yet every homeowner has to do it every ten to twenty years, unless the roof was severely damaged – in which case you may be forced to repair or replace the roof on short notice. Furthermore, you want to make sure the work is done well since the roof is your first line of protection from the elements. And you also have to understand how the process works to make sure that you’re satisfied with the end results and don’t get swindled. Here are 5 things you should know before you get your roof replaced.
You Can and Should Shop Around
Some roofers aren’t concerned about customer satisfaction since the roof replacement is a once in a lifetime job for some homeowners. However, they do have reputations, and you can and should research this.
What kind of reviews do they get? Are there complaints against them with the Better Business Bureau? For example, they may charge for a premium roof and install something cheaper, or they may replace a roof when the issue could have been resolved with basic repairs. In the worst-case scenario, they rip off your roof and leave your home exposed for weeks before they come back and finish the job.
However, don’t be alarmed if you see a couple of negative reviews on BBB. It’s perfectly normal for long established companies to have a few complaints. Some may be well deserved, while others might be malicious. That’s why you have to look at the content of the reviews in detail, and judge by yourself. Also, check if they seem to always have the same kind of issues with different clients.
You should also shop around to get a better price. Talk to three or more roofers, as this gives you a range of prices so you can judge what a reasonable price tag for the roof repair would be. It also means you may get several different scopes of work. Talk to the person offering to repair the hole in the roof or lay another layer of shingles on the roof rather than replacing the whole thing to understand why they recommend that course of action. Then ask the other contractors why they suggest a replacement.
For instance, companies like Semper Solaris provide both roofing repair and roofing replacements. They won’t hesitate to tell you if you absolutely need to make a replacement or not. They have been in operation for over 20 years, and are recognized as one of the best roofing companies in Southern California.
They’re also notable for being able to handle everything from roof repairs to installing battery storage to fixing your air conditioner. Working with a company that can perform a variety of jobs will make things easier, as their solutions will be tailormade for your previous installation. And you could have all of the energy efficiency upgrades on your to-do list completed at the same time.
The Signs You Need a New Roof Immediately
In some cases, you can debate repair versus replacement for a roof. However, there are a number of signs that indicate the roof must be replaced immediately. Any roof over twenty years old probably needs to be replaced. If the shingles are buckling or curling, they must be replaced. And if there is water damage under the shingles, the whole roof may need to be replaced. Chronic mold problems in your home may indicate serious leaks, while moss growing on the roofing material means the roof needs to be replaced.
If the shingles on the roof valleys are disappearing or damaging, the entire roof surface needs to be replaced. If the roof is sagging, this indicates a serious structural problem. The roof and the supports must be replaced before it collapses.
Chimney flashing made of tar or cement should be replaced as they wear out so that you create a water-tight system. If you see daylight through any part of the roof, the roof needs to be replaced. If you’re finding single granules in your gutters, the asphalt shingles must be replaced at a minimum. If you’ve seen a spike in your energy bills you can’t otherwise explain, your roof should be inspected. These higher energy bills may be due to air-conditioned air leaking through the roof.
The Range of Materials Available
Most homes are topped with asphalt shingles, but you have far more options than that. You can have metal shingles or concrete shingles installed. While they may cost more, they last longer and do a better job of protecting your home. Slate and wood shingles are beautiful, though you can buy modern shingles that resemble these materials but have superior performance.
So, make sure that you look at a wide variety of materials, and weigh the pros and cons of each. Consider things such as maintenance, curb appeal, lifespan, and installation costs. You also have to make sure that your house will be able to support these materials as they can vary greatly in weight.
The Price of Progress
Recognize that the roof work will be loud while it is being done. Plan for how you’ll manage while the roof is being torn off and replaced if you’re going to say in your home or business.
In general, you will want to stay out of your home during the day while work is going on, especially if you have young children that can’t nap through the racket. It would be hard to work from home while things are going on as well. Ask contractors how long the work will take – some will bring in a larger crew and get it done faster.
The Legal Concerns
Don’t sign up with a roofer who offers the lowest price because they lack insurance and licenses. They’re less likely to do the quality work you want them to do, and you have no recourse if they make a costly mistake.
Verify that your roofing project is covered under the roofer’s liability and worker’s compensation plan. This is important for a variety of reasons. For one, the liability coverage will protect you against any damage to your property. It will also cover you if a third party ends up getting hurt due to negligence from the contractor. But not only that, working with a contractor who doesn’t have the right coverage means that you could end up being responsible for one of the employees injuring themselves on the site of the job. So, make sure that you ask for paperwork, and follow up with the insurance company to make sure that everything is in order.
Also, make sure to get the quotes in writing regarding the scope of work. For example, verify that they’ll get rid of the old roof and dispose of all the construction waste. Make certain they will get the necessary permits. A building permit is typically required for a roofing project. And read the contract before you sign it. Negotiate issues before you commit, and make certain the contract is modified to reflect those terms.
Your roof is the most important component of your home. This is why you must educate yourself and ensure that the work done on your roof is done right by the pros. Follow these few tips, and you’ll enjoy a beautiful and sturdy roof for years to come.