Replacing your roof is a costly home maintenance project that demands proper planning and management for its success.
As such, before kicking off this project, there are several vital factors to evaluate to help determine if you are 100% ready for a roof replacement. Here are eight tips for replacing your roof.
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1. Have a Thorough Pre-inspection and Replacement Quotes
While there are many signs that it is time to replace your roof, it is vital to evaluate the extent of the damage that your home’s crown has suffered.
Not all damages are equal, and having professional pre-inspection will offer better insights on how much work needs to be done and expected costs.
Roofing specialists such as Roof Maxx come in handy during these initial phases as they could offer an alternative yet efficient roof replacement option if your asphalt roof is not too worn out. This will help you avoid high re-roofing costs while benefiting from the extended roof life.
2. Focus on Value
It is no secret that everyone wants to save money, especially when faced with a costly project like replacing your roof. However, your number one focus should be on the guaranteed value that a roof replacement package offers.
You are better off spending more on a package that will enable you to benefit from resilient roofing options over one that will leave you facing more problems after a few years.
3. Is the Decking in Good Shape?
One of the primary reasons you always need thorough roof pre-inspection before initiating a re-roofing project is that you need to know the state of your decking.
Since this is your roof’s foundation and is typically made of wood, there is always the likelihood of it being rotten and needing to be replaced.
This is also another reason why a tear-off roof replacement is generally better than a roof cover as it exposes this protective membrane allowing for necessary upgrades.
4. Do Not Forget About Attic Ventilation
You need the right attic ventilation to avoid moisture buildup during winter, leading to mold problems or excessive temperatures in summer that make your home uncomfortable.
As such, among your top concerns should be about the kind of venting that your roofing contractor will use. Most importantly, ensure this is included in your roof proposal and estimates.
5. Be Ready for Disruptions
There will be a lot of disruptions once roofers start working on your home, and you need to be prepared for this. Your priority should be on the safety of your loved ones, and some of the actions you need to take include:
- Stipulate off-limit areas for your kids and pets during the entire project
- Remove wall decorations, hanging pieces, and items that could easily fall over
- Relocate your vehicles
- Secure items in the attic
- Board up your windows
- Move patio furniture, potted plants, grills, and other outside items away from the work area
- Inform your neighbors about the project to avoid exposing them to unnecessary risks
6. Have All the Vital Documents
Most cities require you to have a permit before you can start any repairs on your roof. As such, it is highly advisable to work with local roofing contractors who fully understand these regulations and adhere to them.
As a homeowner, you also need to ensure you have everything in writing as you need assurance on how the contractor will manage the project.
Right from the estimated project timeline and what the roof replacement will involve to how you will make payments, all agreements have to be on paper and signed by both parties.
This will offer you an edge in case you encounter any problems while working with the roofing contractor.
7. Insist on Post-inspection and Insurance Cover
You can never be safe enough when handling a roof replacement, as this is one of the most dangerous home improvement projects.
To avoid liability in case of accidents, it is essential to settle for a roofing contractor with insurance coverage that protects workers on-site as well as your property.
Most importantly, only settle for a contractor that will guarantee a free post-inspection and warranty on their work.
This way, you will avoid bearing the financial burden of poor workmanship and flaws that might impact the functionality of your roof.
8. Consider the Weather
You need to time your roof replacement project to avoid being a victim of extreme weather conditions that affect how quickly the roofing contractor can complete the job.
The best weather for roofing should be when it is not too hot, too cold, or too wet, allowing roofers to make the most of each day.
You will also avoid the likelihood of costly property damages caused by heavy snow, strong winds, rain, or excessive humidity.
Endnote
You must never take avoidable risks when replacing your roof, and these tips will help you take better charge of this high-value project.
