The roof provides a solid defense against the elements such as rain, hail, heat, snow, and wind. From spring to summer and fall to winter, your roofing system is constantly exposed to extreme weather, making it deteriorate and lose its integrity over time. So, when your roof gets older and gets in bad shape, it may be necessary to consider a full replacement. A weakened roof is susceptible to damage from the elements, insects, rodents, structural damage, and mold and mildew infestation. When it’s time to replace your residential roof, here are the three things you need to understand:
1. Signs Your Roof is Due for Replacement
Many things can determine if your current roof needs replacement or not. How often you replace it will depend on its current age, the quality of roofing materials, current condition, what weather your roof faces, and the quality of the original installation. If you recently replaced your existing roof, chances are you won’t have to replace it anytime soon. If you’re not the one who originally replaced it, it may be difficult to know its specific age.
Overall, newer shingle roofs can last around 20 years or more. If you don’t know when your current roof was installed, be sure to look out for signs of age and wear. When your roof begins to show the following signs, you may need a new roof soon:
- A damaged or sagging roof deck
- Damaged or missing shingles
- Missing granules
- Moss growth
So, if you’re wondering when to replace your current roof, its best to talk to your local roofer to help you discover whether replacement is necessary or simple repairs can help extend its life for a few more years. A professional roofer can also inspect your roof and estimate how many years it has left.
2. How the Cost of Replacement is Determined
The overall cost of roof replacement is dependent on the house. The higher the house is, the more it requires in terms of labor getting up to the roof. The slope of the house also affects how safe it is to walk on, which adds to the labor cost. Again, a roof with multiple layers needing to be torn off will cost more to replace.
Generally, roofing contractors charge material costs per square footage of the roof and the type of roofing material chosen. For instance, shingles have a lower cost as compared to tile or slate. Tearing off and replacing bad decking will also add to the cost of roof replacement. Remember the square footage of a roof is totally different from that of your home. So, a two-story house will have less square footage than a ranch style house.
Since every roof is different, it’s advisable to work with a reputable, local contractor with years of experience working with different roof types. A good roofing contractor will be happy to issue an estimate and clarify any issues you may have about the quote. They will strive to be honest from start to finish and won’t try to hide information from you.
3. How Long a Roof Replacement Takes
For many roof types, the replacement process often takes a single working day. However, several factors can affect this timeframe and make the replacement process go longer. They include:
- The scope of work: If the decking and other roof layers are damaged and need to be replaced, it will take more time and money to get the job done.
- The complexity of the job: Low-pitched, straightforward roofs are easier to move around on, which speeds up the replacement process. However, complex roofs with details such as ridges, valleys, chimneys, skylights, dormers, and other penetrations will take more time to get around.
- Type of material: Some roofing materials are heavier while others need more care when handling.
- Weather/Season: Roof replacement projects should ideally be scheduled in warm, dry seasons. However, sometimes the weather can change unexpectedly and slow things down. The roofing crew will strive to complete the project in inclement weather, but only when it is safe to do so.
At Adam Vaillancourt in the Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts area, we always strive to offer the best to our esteemed customers. Our roofing crew is dedicated to getting the job done right the first time, ensuring you won’t spend money every few years on roof repairs. Our estimates are fair and honest, ensuring your roof replacement process is as painless and as easy as possible. Contact us today for a free estimate or to speak with one of our friendly consultants.
