What to Consider Before Renovating Your Roof

Working on a roof renovation may not be as trendy as working on a new kitchen, but it means a lot in providing you a safe and leak-free home. Because your roof protects you from nature’s elements, you’d want to keep it in good shape all the time.

If you’re planning to renovate your roof, there are several things that affect this home project including the roof size or roofing square. Check out the following considerations before taking on a roofing renovation.

Renovation or Minor Repair

Don’t wait for the time when you’re constantly placing buckets to catch leaks, before considering roof maintenance. Repairing your roof can save you time and money in the future. Don’t wait for leaks to worsen.

Check the following to see if it’s time to have a new roof:

• Your roof is about 25 years old. This is based on the lifespan of asphalt shingle roofs, which can last up to 30 years.
• You see shingles curling. Whether the shingles are turning upward or clawing downwards, this is a sign of weathering, which means that leaks are about to form.
• There are missing shingles. Although you can patch each missing shingle with a new one, if the roof now looks mismatched, it’s high time to consider a roof renovation.
• Shingles are cracking. Shingles become cracked due to wind damage. If there are a few shingles affected by cracking, they can be replaced. However, if cracking occurs randomly in various places, you’d have to consider a new roof.
• Light passes through the roof. If this happens, so can other elements get into your home. This leak means that you must address it immediately.
• Sagging roof. Now it’s time to panic. This is a structural issue that needs to be solved immediately.

Choosing a roofing contractor

A roof renovation calls for professional help and you’d like to choose only the best contractor. To ensure that the job is performed well, take your time in finding a reputable roofing contractor near you.

Here’s how you can do that:

• Ask for referrals from neighbors, family, and friends who’ve had some renovation in the past.
• Find names from the local hardware store for highly recommended contractors or roofers.
• Search online for contractors serving your neighborhood.
• Check out the reviews of these contractors.
• Make phone calls to these contractors for your roofing questions.
• Decide which one to get based on their reviews and responses to your questions.

Ask Recommendations

Whether you’d want to consider completely replacing your roof or if a few repairs would make it good enough to protect you, this is where your chosen roofing contractor can help you. They can check your roof and make recommendations for you.

Generally, your roofing contractor will recommend replacement if they see signs of water damage and leaks. If you experience heating and insulation issues, your roofing contractor may also suggest renovating the roof to address this concern.

Choosing A Roofing Material

Another important decision to make is the material for your roof renovation. The material you choose will affect the performance, look of your roof, and the overall cost. There are many options, but you’d also want to consider roof angle, availability, styles, budget, and local building codes. Your roofing contractor can also help in this step.

Here are some roofing materials:

• Asphalt shingles. These are usually the least expensive option and the most commonly used material. It can also be used for various roof styles and angles.
• Concrete or clay tile. This material requires minimal maintenance, provides natural insulation, and durable.
• Wood shingles. Provides a natural look and can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. This is also a more expensive choice and may not always be available in all locations.
• Metal roofing. This is another versatile and durable option with many styles and is low maintenance. It’s prone to denting and is also a bit pricier.
• Slate roofing. This option provides a rustic look to your home. It’s also naturally fireproof, waterproof, and insulating. It’s also quite expensive.
• Composition slate roofing. It’s produced using recycled materials, is lightweight, affordable, and a good substitute for authentic slate roofing.

Renovation Time

The duration of the job will depend on several factors including the material, weather, roof size, and the number of workers. Ask for an estimate from your chosen roofing contractor before starting work.

Final Thoughts

A roofing renovation is an essential step to preserve the structure and aesthetics of your home. Proper roof maintenance will help maximize the lifespan of your roof.

But when time and nature have taken a toll on your roof, a renovation might be needed. To ensure the success of this project, consider the given tips before renovation.