When constructing a roof, homeowners want to work with a roofing contractor they can trust. A roofing contractor like chicago siding that won’t rip you off.
You don’t want surprises, you don’t want an inferior job, and you certainly don’t want to fall victim to fraud when trying to replace your roof. Roof replacement experts at Colony Roofers help homeowners make the right decisions when it comes time to replace their existing roofs. Read to learn what you need to know when replacing your roof.
Roof Age Determines Replacement Time
A roof’s lifespan varies depending on the material, but most roofs have a lifespan of 20-25 years but can last longer if there is correct installation. If your roof is older than this, it may be time for a replacement. An excellent way to know if your roof needs replacing is by looking at its condition and asking yourself:
- Is it leaking?
- Does it seem worn out or faded?
- Is there moss or algae growing on top of it?
Some Roof Repairs are for Professionals
It’s essential to ensure you know the difference between minor and major repairs. While many people can handle smaller repairs, some jobs require professionals with the right equipment and knowledge to do the job right.
For example, if water leaks into your home through a hole in your roof, hiring an experienced contractor can save you time and money. The pros have access to specialized tools that fix most problems quickly and efficiently. They’ll also tell if previous repairs caused additional damages.
Choose Quality Shingles
Shingles are the most prominent part of your roof and protect your home from storms, wind, rain, and snow. There are different shingles, and each one offers different benefits. Ensure you know what kind of shingles work best for your home before making any purchase decisions.
When choosing a new roof, a few factors will determine which type of shingle is right for you. For example, some shingles cost more than others, depending on the material used (such as asphalt). If your budget is small, this might be an essential factor in your decision-making.
Also, consider how well they will withstand bad weather conditions such as rainstorms or snowstorms during winter.
Choose a Roofing Company
Choose a Siesta Roofing company that knows how to handle your specific situation and is willing to help you make an informed decision. Here are some questions you should ask before hiring any company:
- What types of roofs do they specialize in?
- What are their credentials? Do they have insurance?
- Do they provide free estimates? What is in those estimates?
- Do they offer warranties? How long does it last?
Get Different Quotes
It might be tempting to call the first company on an internet search during roof replacement. That’s not a good idea; you could pay more than necessary for a less-than-quality installation.
Get multiple quotes from different companies. Ask each of them for their written estimate, which should include the materials they plan to use, how long they will work on the roofing project, and the number of workers they’ll have on-site. Also, ask about any warranties they offer and ensure they provide references.
Once you’ve gotten several quotes and researched their reputations, you can choose the company that fits your budget and needs.
Put Documents Together
Obtain a permit from your county and a letter from the insurance company stating that you’ve undertaken this work. It will protect you if any damage or leaks during the replacement process.
Once you have these documents, you can schedule an appointment with a roofing contractor to evaluate your roof condition.
After the Roofing Project Clean-up
After roof replacement cleanup, remove any debris from the area around your home. It includes any leftover nails, old shingles, or damaged wood panels. Ensure to check under any overhang. Next, clean up any messes inside. The repair work will have created dust inside the house, so vacuum everything up before it settles.
Never wait until the last minute to repair a roof. Roofs require regular maintenance to retain their integrity and prevent them from leaking. If you are considering repairing your old roof yourself, don’t. You should hire a professional instead. With different types of roofs on the market today, it’s nearly impossible for a non-specialist to tell whether or not one type will work better than another at keeping out water. Professional roofers understand these differences and ensure that your home isn’t at risk of water damage.