If your roof is showing signs of wear and tear, you may be considering re-roofing or roof replacement.
A re-roof will add a second layer of shingles, tiles, or metal roofing to the existing structure. If the new material is significantly heavier than the original, a structural engineer will need to check that your house can support the added weight. Contact Roofing Helena MT for professional help.
The cost of a new roof will depend on several factors, including the roofing materials used and the amount of labor required. In general, however, a full roof replacement will cost between $2 and $7 per square foot, though this can increase dramatically for complex or steeper roofs. The price of materials will account for 40 percent or more of the total cost, while labor accounts for about 60 percent or less. Additional costs can include landfill fees or hauling charges for the old shingles, as well as the cost of any repairs needed on the structure beneath the roof.
Roofing contractors will also factor in the size of your roof and any special features like chimneys or skylights. These can add to the cost of the roof, as they may require custom flashing and more durable materials than standard shingles. Additionally, the pitch of your roof will influence how much time and effort it takes to replace, as a steeper roof requires more painstaking work and specialized tools.
Your geographic location and the local cost of living can affect your roof replacement costs as well. Roofs in areas with severe weather will need stronger materials and more precise installation to protect against ice and snow damage. Additionally, the climate of your area will influence how often you need to re-roof and the type of roofing material that’s most appropriate for the environment.
If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s worth comparing the benefits of re-roofing to a complete replacement. Re-roofing involves placing a new layer of shingles or another roofing material over the existing shingle system. While a new layer of shingles will provide some protection against leaks and other weather damage, it won’t prevent the underlying structural problems from developing.
Also, it’s important to note that most building codes only allow for two layers of shingles, and removing an existing layer can add significantly to the overall cost of a re-roofing project. It’s best to hire a professional roofing contractor for a re-roofing job, as this will ensure that the roof is removed properly and any damaged sheathing or trusses are repaired.
Materials
When you choose a roofing material, it’s important to consider the style and look that you want, how long you expect your roof to last, and how much you’re willing to spend. A roofing contractor can help you decide which roofing materials are right for your home, and will explain the pros and cons of each option.
The most common roofing materials are asphalt shingles and wood shakes. Asphalt shingles are made from a durable, water-resistant fiberglass that is easy to install. These shingles are available in a wide variety of styles and colors to match any type of house or architectural design. They’re also fairly inexpensive, and if they are well maintained, can last for 20 years or more. Wood shakes are made from large pieces of natural wood, such as cedar or redwood. These are thicker wedge-shaped slabs that can be very attractive and add to a home’s value. However, they are also a fire risk and can’t be used in areas with high rainfall or wildfires.
Another roofing material option is metal. Metal roofs can be very durable and energy efficient, and they often last for 30 or 50 years or more. They can withstand extreme weather conditions and are highly resistant to fire.
One of the most important aspects of a good roof is the sheathing. This is the foundation layer that supports shingles and other roof coverings. Sheathing is commonly made from plywood or OSB and provides a sturdy base for the rest of your roofing system.
You’ll also need to consider the gutters, flashing, and fascia board. These are essential parts of a functional roof, and the installation and repair of these components can help to prevent leaks.
Installation
There are a few steps involved in installing a new roof. First, your contractor will clean and prepare the job site. This may include removing debris and moving vehicles from the driveway or garage so they don’t get damaged during the tear-off process. Next, the underlayment is installed. This protects the underlying structure from water damage and helps prevent ice damming. The flashing is then put in place. This protects the eaves, wood stove pipes, chimneys, certain vents, and other areas of your roof that may be vulnerable to leaks. Finally, the shingles or other roofing material is installed. This gives the roof its final look and adds insulation and energy efficiency to your home.
If your shingles are fading or showing signs of deterioration. This can be a sign of age, or it could indicate that other structural issues are present. If the shingles are curling, cracking, or blowing off entirely, it’s probably time to consider a replacement.
If your neighbors are getting new roofs. This can be a great way to update your home’s appearance, and it can also increase the value of your property. Re-roofing your roof can be a costly project, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option. If you are considering a re-roof, make sure your contractor has all the necessary permits from your homeowner association or architectural review board before starting work.
Maintenance
The biggest factor in whether a repair or replacement is a good idea is the extent of damage. Minor repairs, like replacing a few missing or damaged shingles, cost far less than repairing structural elements such as rafters or trusses. However, some damage is so extensive that a full roof replacement will be necessary.
The roof is the first line of defense against outside elements, so it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance. This helps to catch small issues before they become major problems, which can be more costly. Checking for granule loss, shingle punctures or tears, and other minor damage can be done with a ladder and binoculars, or you can have a professional roofing company inspect your roof and make recommendations.
A professional roofer can also re-caulk seams, address nail pops, replace damaged or old flashing, and examine the condition of the chimney and other roof penetrations. They’ll also be able to add vent holes and/or new vents for increased attic ventilation. This can help to lower your energy costs by allowing hot air to escape from your home instead of being trapped.
Another reason for a re-roof is aesthetics. Many homeowners want to give their house a facelift, and replacing the roof is one way to do it. A new roof can also improve curb appeal and increase your home’s resale value.
Other common maintenance tasks include trimming trees so they don’t overhang the roof, and ensuring the seals around rooftop features such as skylights and vents are in good shape. Keeping gutters clear of debris is important, too. This helps prevent water from backing up and leaking into the attic. Finally, ensuring that any chimneys and wood stove pipes are well-protected from the weather is essential.
The fascia is a long wooden board that protects the lower edges of a roof. It’s susceptible to damage from ice and snow, moisture, mold growth and animal infestation. If the fascia boards are rotting or damaged, they should be replaced with new ones to prevent leaks and other problems down the road.