What to Expect During a Roofing Replacement

Most homeowners will need to replace their home’s roof at some point in time. We know roof replacement can seem daunting, expensive, and time-consuming. However, with a little preparation, you can make the process less overwhelming for yourself. Let us help. Here are the factors to consider when preparing for a roof replacement project that we’ll cover in detail below.

Things to consider when replacing a roof:

• Roofing contractor validation
• Roofing Estimate
• Permit
• Unforeseen roof repairs
• Additional costs
• Securing pets and household members
• How long does it take to install a new roof?
• Clean up and removal of roof debris
• Benefits of a roof replacement

Roofing Contractor Validation

There are three “first things first” steps that must be taken before you can begin installing a new roof.

The first step is hiring a licensed roofing contractor. An experienced contractor is vital to ensure your roofing replacement goes smoothly. Whether you use the services of a contractor recommended to you or you do your own research, be sure to validate the contractor’s credentials. Contact the licensing board for your state to be sure the contractor you hire is both licensed and insured. In addition, check with the Better Business Bureau for customer comments, reviews of the contractor’s residential roofing replacement services and complaints, and/or recent legal action.

Get a Roofing Replacement Estimate

Roofing contractors will inspect your property to evaluate the current roof, take measurements, and identify visible damage. During this phase, you’ll receive an estimate that includes:

• A breakdown of all initial roof replacement charges.
• Photos of problematic areas of the roof.
• An estimated start and completion date.

Ask about additional charges for items like dumpster rental, debris cleanup, property checks for nails, or any costs not included in the initial estimate.

Contractors should also provide samples of roofing materials, such as:

• Asphalt roofing
• Wood shakes
• Metal roofing
• Slate roofing

Use our roof replacement and installation cost calculator to get estimates for your locality and region.

Roof Replacement Cost Calculator

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Roof Replacement Permit

The final “must do” step in a home roofing replacement involves a building permit. Talk to your contractor to find out if they will work on the permit, or if it’s something you will need to do. This is not a step to ignore, as an inspection will take place once the roof is installed to determine if the new roof complies with the building codes for your area.

Unforeseen Roof Repairs

Sometimes, unexpected damage can take your new roof construction in a different direction. This happens when damage is found underneath the current roofing material. Unfortunately, the initial inspection cannot detect these types of roof structure problems until the existing roofing material is removed.

The contractor will communicate these issues and request your approval. In some situations, they may also request elective roof work/repairs be completed, which will also require your approval.

Additional Costs

The cost of a new roof can be expensive, and when hidden damage is found, the cost can increase. Here are some examples of hidden damage to the roof that may be discovered once the project begins.

• Rotten wood affecting the stability of the roof deck or beams
• Leaking around roof vents and/or a chimney
• Not enough flashing

Securing Pets and Household Members During New Roof Construction

While the roofing crew is in the process of installing a new roof on your home, make sure that everyone in your household follows safety procedures. Check with your contractor to see what procedures are usually in place to keep everyone safe during roof replacement. For your part, either keep children and pets inside or leave the home while the roof replacement is underway.

How Long Does Roof Replacement Take?

On average, installing a new roof takes between 3 and 5 days. The time depends on the size of your property and type of roofing materials you choose. Additionally, your new roof installation can take longer if the contractor finds any hidden damage or you’re in a location that is subject to inclement weather.

Clean-up and Removal of Debris

Once the final nail is in place, the contractor should ensure that all old material, which includes the original roofing material, roof framing elements, underlayment or tarpaper, wood, nails, or any other debris from the project is removed.

Benefits of a Roof Replacement

Along with a secure home against weather and instant curb appeal to the exterior, consider these additional benefits.

• Insurance: You may be eligible for a homeowner’s insurance discount. Contact the agent prior to the start of the project and ask if there is any discount for a new roof using specific nail patterns.
• ROI: The property value will increase.
• Longevity: A new roof is an instant selling point as roofing materials range in lifespan from 20 to 100 years.
• Eco-friendly: Your property will experience better interior energy efficiency as long as the home is well sealed allowing no air leakage in or out.

A new roof replacement project can be stress-free with an experienced contractor on the job, the investment in a new roof will pay for itself in more ways than one.