What to Expect During a Roofing Replacement

If you’re a homeowner, you’ll most likely need a roof replacement at some point in time. And though the very idea of such a big project may seem expensive and time-consuming, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming — especially if you’re prepared. Here are the factors to consider when preparing for a roof replacement project that we’ll cover in detail below.

• Contractor validation
• Roofing Estimate
• Permit
• Unforeseen repairs
• Additional cost
• Securing pets and household members
• Time to Complete a Roofing Project
• Clean up and removal of debris
• Benefits of a Roof Replacement

Roofing Contractor Validation

There are three “first things first” steps that must be taken before the project begins. The first step is hiring a licensed roofing contractor. An experienced contractor is vital to a proper roof replacement project. 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 and complaints, and/or recent legal action.

Roofing Estimate

Roofing contractors will visit your property to inspect the current roof, take measurements, and inspect for any visible damage during the estimating phase. The estimate should include a breakdown of all the initial charges, pictures of problematic areas, and an estimated start and completion date.

Ask the contractor about additional charges that may be incurred for such things as dumpster rental for debris, clean up and removal of material, additional checking of the property for nails, or any other cost not included in the initial estimate.

Your contractor should provide you with samples of the different material types:

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

You can use our roof replacement and installation cost calculator to get estimates for your locality and region.

Roof Replacement Cost Calculator

Take Me There

Roof Replacement Permit

The final “must do” step involves a building permit. Either you or your contractor is responsible for acquiring a permit for the roofing project. 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

With some roofing projects, a change to the order may be necessary. This is when damage is found underneath the current roofing material. The initial inspection cannot detect these types of problems until the existing roofing material is removed.

The contractor will apprise you of these issues and request your approval. In some situations, they may also request elective 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

On the day the contractor and crew are scheduled to begin the roofing project and throughout the duration of the installation, it is important that you and everyone in your household follow safety procedures. The contractor should have a safety procedure in place and ample supervision to ensure everyone involved in the project stays safe. For your part, keep children and pets inside whenever the project is underway or just leave the property during the work.

Time to Complete a Roofing Project

The time it takes for any roofing replacement project depends on the size of the property and the type of roofing material being installed. On average, a roof replacement project can take between 3 to 5 days. If unforeseen issues arise, such as hidden damage that must be repaired, or the area is subjected to inclement weather, the project can run longer.

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.