Some homeowners may think they don’t need to worry about installing a new roof until the old one starts leaking. Wrong! Those who wait that long then have to deal with higher fixing costs. Why? Because by the time you notice the leaks, the structural damage will have already occurred.
Want to know if it’s time to install a new roof? Here are some tips:
- How old is the existing roof? Asphalt shingles, for example, should last about 20 to 25 years, even longer, if they are installed correctly and with suitable materials. If you’ve been living there for many years and you don’t have an idea when was the last time your roof was replaced, it’s time for a roof inspection.
- Go outside and take a look at your roof. Check if the shingle lines are still straight or if they have any sags. A sag is a clear signal of rotting in the sheathing.
- How to know if the asphalt shingles are breaking down? You can figure it out when you start finding granules in the
- Look at the tabs and check if they are intact. Can you see any cracked, curled or misshapen shingle? Is there any shingle missing? Remember that as time goes by, shingles start deteriorating.
- It’s time to visit the attic. Is there any sunlight going through the roof boards? Try to inspect the attic just after a good rain to look for moisture or leaks.
How many of the previous warning signs did you notice on your roof? If you checked at least one, you better ask for a qualified roof inspection ASAP.
TEAR OFF AND OVERLAY
One decision you’ll need to make once you decide to get a new construction is whether to remove the old roof completely or cover the existing roof with a layer of new shingles.
Homeowners can save up to 25% or more by reroofing instead of a tear off and build a new roof completely. Is that a smart decision?
Roofing experts disagree on re-roofing. That’s because tearing down the roof is the best way to find water damage that would otherwise remain discovered. Besides, adding a second layer of shingles could be harmful as you are adding extra weight to the roofing structure. It may seem that the best decision is getting a new roof but, not so fast!
On the contrary, some organization such as the National Roofing Contractors Association and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturer’s Association consider re-roofing as a reasonable option. They say re-roofing can be a good practice if it is approved by local building codes.
Some factors to consider once you make the decision to get a new roof or ask for a roof replacement include:
- The existing roof must be in good conditions. The roofing materials need to be compatible with reroofing.
- The best condition is when you can see the roof’s underlying structure directly from the attic.
- To make sure the warranty applies, it is critical that the roofer follows the shingles manufacturer’s instructions as well as the local building codes.
- Expert roofers must keep in mind that re-roofing requires very different installation techniques than the standard methods.
- The weakest areas in any new roof are chimneys, valleys and other surrounding protrusions.
5 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GET A ROOF REPLACEMENT
We all agree the roof is arguably the most important part of the house. It protects our family and belongings while keeping water out of the building.
We also agree it isn’t an enjoyable task to pay for a roof replacement, less when you have to spend $8,000 to $20,000 on the work.
For that kind of money, you better make sure the job is done right. So, here’s what you need to know when getting a roof replacement:
- Shop around: Never choose a roofing company based on price. You must be extremely careful whom you hire. Some roofing contractors deliver pretty low bids because they hire low-wage workers. Before hiring a roofing agency, get as many references from neighbors as you can. Checking some roofing manufacturer websites (such as diamondcertified.com certainteed.com, gaf.com, owenscorning.com) is a good choice to look for lists of certified roofers.
- Strip away the old: Your roof can have two layers of asphalt shingles. But, if there’s only one in place, you can install a new layer right on top. That way you’ll be saving around $1,000 but the roofer won’t be able to inspect and repair the decking and flashing underneath.
- Go top shelf: The best way not to worry about your roof for a long time is to purchase highest quality products. This includes opting for 50-year-shingles ($300 to $500) or copper flashing.
- Pay attention to the paperwork: Three documents are essential when getting a roof installation:
- Specify all the agreed-to details, supplies, as well as costs of a new roof on a written contract.
- Some cities require a building permit for roofing projects. That ensures that your contractor follows all the building codes.
- A letter from the contractor’s insurance that confirms the coverage of the project for the roofer’s worker’s compensation as well as the liability plan.
- Do not pay until you see the magnet: Contractors have a tool (a giant magnet on wheels) that makes it easy to pick up all the nails and metal that land on your grass while they’re working. Avoid getting a flat tire or any injury. Once the job is completed, ask your roofer to bring the magnet and leave the area free of metal waste.
Your home’s security depends on having a correctly installed roof. Bay 101 is a team of expert roofing contractors in San Jose and the rest of the Bay Area that are ready to help you replace your roof or get a new one.
Do you want to know your roof’s current conditions? Contact us and ask for a FREE INSPECTION NOW!