The roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Keeping it in good condition can help to protect your home from damage and enhance its curb appeal.
Some signs it’s time for a new roof include a sagging roof, small holes that leak, and disintegrating shingles. Visit https://www.ellingsonroofing.com/ to learn more.
A re-roofing project can require significant materials and painstaking labor, especially if your home has a steep pitch or features like chimneys.
Replacing a roof isn’t something homeowners look forward to, but maintenance and repair can only take a home so far. Eventually, even a well-built roof will wear out. A replacement can protect the integrity of a home and prevent costly damage and safety hazards.
Roofing costs can vary depending on the size of the roof, the type of materials used, and other factors. The size of the roof is important because it determines how much material will be needed to cover the surface. Some roofs are small enough to be covered with shingles, while others require more extensive work and materials such as underlayment and ice barriers. The type of shingle also plays a role in the cost, with basic three-tab shingles cheaper than 30-year or architectural shingles.
The location of the house can also influence the price, as some areas are more prone to extreme weather than others and may need specialized materials to prevent damage. Some roofs will require ice barriers, while others may need extra insulation or underlayment to protect against heavy snowfall. The cost of the shingles is a big factor in the overall cost, but other materials, such as vents, skylights, chimneys, soffits, and ridge caps, can increase the total price tag.
In addition to the cost of the materials, a homeowner will have to pay for labor to install and remove the new roof. The amount of labor needed depends on the size and complexity of the roof, as well as whether a homeowner will be installing a dormer window, chimney, or other features. Typically, these features will add to the cost of the new roof due to the need for special flashing and additional materials.
It’s a good idea for homeowners to research the cost of a new roof before needing one, as prices can fluctuate widely. There are several ways to finance a roof replacement, including personal loans and credit cards. Homeowners should be careful when using credit, however, as failing to repay a loan could have negative effects on their credit score. Another option is to save up for the project over time. If a homeowner decides to do this, they should request estimates from multiple contractors to get an idea of the average cost for their area.
Materials
A quality roof requires excellent workmanship and the right materials. Roofing contractors must assess each roofing material’s cost, longevity and aesthetic. They also consider how each material reacts to climatic conditions in a given area.
During the design phase, homeowners voice their concerns and preferences to help the roofing team determine the best roofing materials for their needs. Besides the main roofing material, other components include sheathing, ice and water barrier and flashing.
Sheathing is a wood base layer that contractors use to attach other roofing materials to. It is typically made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). The sheathing protects the roof from moisture and ice build-up. It also provides a smooth surface for shingles. The sheathing is nailed to the roof’s joists and trusses, and it can be covered with a waterproof underlayment.
Shingles are the recognizable outer layer of a roof and provide architectural appeal as well as protection from the sun’s UV rays and wind. They are available in many styles, colors and textures to match a home’s décor. The shingles can be asphalt, metal or wood, depending on the homeowner’s preference and budget. Some shingle options are fire-resistant, which is an important consideration if the home is located in a high-fire risk area.
If the homeowner wants to reduce energy costs, he or she can choose metal roofs, which are long-lasting and highly durable. Some metal roofs resemble traditional asphalt shingles and others look like clay or slate tile. Composition slate and other synthetic materials that closely resemble tile are growing in popularity, as they meet the fire requirements for most locations.
To keep the attic cool and prevent moisture build-up, roofs must be properly ventilated. To do this, roofers must install vents that allow air to flow in and out of the attic, balancing the amount of hot, humid air that enters and cold outside air that exits. To maintain the balance, the vents must be properly sized and secured to the rafters or trusses.
Lastly, roofers must replace the fascia boards to ensure that the gutter system is secure and that the edge of the roof is protected from rainwater. The fascia boards can be made of wood or composite.
Installation
If your roof is leaking or you notice a lot of shingle debris in the gutters, it may be time for a replacement. Replacing a roof can be a huge improvement to your home or business and will increase its lifespan. It can also add to your property value and give it a distinctive look. You can choose from a variety of roofing materials to fit your budget and aesthetic preferences. The best choice is asphalt shingles, which are economical and durable. However, you can also consider other materials such as slate, tile, wood shakes or metal to give your home a unique look.
The first step in the process is getting permits from your state and local building departments. These are required to ensure that your new roof is up to code and will not cause any issues with your home insurance. You should also check with your homeowner association or architectural review board to see if there are any restrictions on what kind of roof you can install.
Before the roofers begin the physical work, they will examine your existing roof to determine its condition and discuss the options you have for a replacement. They will also take measurements of your roof and note any special features like chimneys, skylights or vents. This inspection is essential because the wrong type of shingles can cause leaks or damage your property.
Once you have approved the roofing materials, the roofers will prepare your property for the job. They will move movable items that could get damaged and put up tarps to catch debris. They will then tear off your old roof, starting at the furthest edge away from the house. This is done to prevent the old shingles from being thrown into your yard and neighbor’s yards. They will then apply flashing to any areas that might leak or cause problems with water penetration, such as the eaves, along the chimney and around vents. They will also install ice and water sheathing in areas where leaks are most likely to occur.
Once the ice and water sheathing is in place, your roofers will start installing the new shingles. They will install a starter strip across the bottom of your roof to help hold the shingles in place. They will then install a row of shingles next to the starter strip.
Maintenance
The lifespan of roof materials such as asphalt shingles, tile or wood shakes is greatly enhanced by a regular maintenance program. Roof maintenance procedures usually involve a thorough inspection, cleaning and addressing any minor issues to prolong the life of your roof. These services may include:
Inspecting for leaks, mold or rot. A small problem like a cracked pipe boot, for example, can lead to a $300 or more repair bill in just a few months if left unattended. Leaks can damage the interior of your home as well as cause serious structural problems to the building. Regular inspections can prevent these costly damages by identifying the problem early and making the necessary repairs.
Maintaining a good drainage system. Keeping drains clear of debris can prevent clogging and ponding water, which can prematurely deteriorate roof systems. A roof with a drainage system that is regularly maintained can have up to 20% of its service life extended.
Cleaning and repairing gutters and downspouts. These are important in preventing water and debris from getting into the walls and ceilings of your home. Inspecting the metal on and around the roof, such as vent pipes, flashing or chimneys for corrosion. If rust is present, these areas need to be repaired as soon as possible to avoid water leaks and structural damage.
Examining the fascia boards for signs of damage or wear. These boards are located along the bottom edges of your roof, and are exposed to the elements, so they can become damaged by rain, insects, animal infestation or just age. A few boards or even a few pieces of fascia can be easily replaced, but larger sections are often best left to professional roofers.
During the inspection, all visible issues are documented in a report to be reviewed by the property manager upon return. These reports typically include pictures of the roof, the condition of the roofing material, building measurements and any other pertinent information for the roof. A roster of crew members who will be performing the maintenance services is also included. This roster may have background checks run on the crew members to ensure they are reliable and safe to work at your building.