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11 Best Roof Replacement Tips for Homeowners in 2023

House owners must keep in mind a few roof replacement tips to avoid repair after repair! Instead, homeowners can prepare for one big project that will protect their family and pets from any roof structural issues.

Tips for Replacing a Roof

Homeowners must understand a few roof replacement tips before replacing their roofs, either with a professional contractor or by themselves. If done correctly, an asphalt roof can last as long as 30 years, and a metal roof can last upwards of 8 decades!

Understand the Roofing Vocabulary

Before you can begin replacing your roof, there are a few key ‘terms’ that can help all homeowners understand what they need and what they are asking for.

Decking is the foundation of the underside of your roof, which usually attaches to the asphalt shingles. The decking must be solid before you can add any external features to your house to fix its structure. 

Roof vents are essential holes in the outside of your roof that can let heat emit from your home, preventing mold build-up or soggy materials. 

Shingles are the external layer of the roof—homeowners usually use metal or asphalt shingles, depending on their durability and price needs. 

The underlay membrane is the layer nestled between the new shingles and the decking that connects the structures of the roof. The membrane must securely attach to the decking so that the roof’s new shingles can firmly stick to the roof. 

The flashing is the strip that covers any holes on the roof, such as connecting edges and corners. 

Remove Wall Decorations

House owners must remove certain items from in and around their homes to avoid damage. We recommend taking off satellite dishes, old shingles, and external vents. Some owners may also remove antennas before construction begins on their replacement.

Ask the Roofing Contractor the Right Questions

roof replacement tips talking with contractor

There are a few things that you must address with the professional who is going to install your roof replacement. Before you begin, make sure you ask them the right questions so you can cover all of your bases. Some of the most critical questions are:

  • Do you cover any slip and fall injuries?
  • Do you provide warranties for labor and roofing materials?
  • Do you have insurance coverage? If so, what does it cover?
  • Do you need accessible power outlets?
  • Have you done any replacements before in this geographical area?
  • Will you remove any patio furniture, potted plants, lawn ornaments, or other items on the lawn and roof deck?

Value Is More Important Than Price

Although you do not want to spend a ton of money on your roof replacement project, the most important quality to focus on is just that—quality! Make sure that you look at the value of the work and the rates of the contractor, not just the initial price quote. 

When you speak with various roofing contractors to see which one you should hire, ask questions regarding the delivery of new materials, removing old materials, unforeseen repairs required, etc. 

Forget a Roof Over

Although a roof over could be potentially alluring due to the lower price, getting an entirely new roof replacement is usually the best option for a long-lasting and durable option. 

If you get a roof over, it will only last a few years—making the lower price not worth it. Plus, a roof over can cause the new shingles underneath it to lose their warranty and deteriorate quicker. 

Ask the Right Questions About Ventilation

When it comes to getting a new roof, asking the right questions regarding ventilation and durability is vital. You want to find a balance between a long-lasting and sturdy material and one that will not grow mold or deteriorate in specific climates. Contractors can also add vents to the roofs, like ridge vents, roof turbine vents, profile roof vents, and solar-powered roof vents. 

Ask About the Decking

Homeowners must ask their roofing contractor about the status of the deck to see if the decking needs to be replaced along with the roofing materials. The decking is the hard material that is stored underneath the sheathing. Contractors must analyze the decking to see if the sheathing and new roof can be attached to the decking without any premature deterioration. 

Purchase Thick Shingles

Buying architectural shingles ensures the roof lasts longer and will not break down prematurely. Instead of buying thinner, three-tab shingles, architectural shingles are more of an investment, but they offer a better return on investment. 

Ask About the Wind Warranty

roof replacement tips asking about the warranty

Homeowners must make sure their new roof can withstand harsh levels of weather, such as strong winds. Especially if you live in a climate that has gusts of wind, hurricanes, or tropical storms, purchasing a new roof with a wind warranty is crucial. 

A roof’s ability to withstand harsh winds can be the difference maker between a few years’ worth of material and a few decades—make sure you ask the contractor regarding the miles per hour the material can withstand. 

What Inspection Is Involved?

Every roofing contractor should inspect the current status of your roof and analyze the new roofing material—but you should ask the contractor for the details of the inspection involved with the price. 

Talk with the professional roofers to see what is included in the assessment, how long it will take, when construction begins, the initial cost, and the add-on fees of services not included in the installation and inspection. 

Go Through the After-sale Process

Homeowners who need to get a new roof should first understand the after-sale process to make sure they select a contractor who can be with them through any needed check-ups or repairs. 

One of the most important roof replacement tips that many owners forget is to see if the contractor can guarantee service after the installation, including any service calls, and guarantees any included repairs after the initial replacement of the old roof. 

Roof Replacement vs. Roof Repair

Roof repairs are going to cost less than a replacement—however, there are many benefits to choosing a roof replacement vs. a roof repair.

Aesthetics

Getting a new roof can increase the resale value of your house and make it look better than a simple replacement. Installing a new roof ensures all the materials are uniform and your house is currently up to date with the most modern materials. 

Better Energy Efficiency

New roofing materials help reflect heat during hot days, which can reduce your AC bill, and keep in heat during cold days, which can reduce your heating bill. The roofing materials today, like metal roofs, can reflect sunlight and help you save money over time. 

More Protection

Lastly, getting a new roof replacement can help give you better peace of mind that you and your family are protected. If you do a roof over, there are still old materials underneath the newer shingles. 

If you repair a few shingles, the rest of the roof is still decades old. However, if you get an entirely new roof, you can rest assured that your new metal roof can last upwards of 80 years! 

Homeowners must go through a few tips before they have a new roof installed. Not only do house owners need to determine the best home improvement methods before work begins, but understanding the right questions to ask a contractor is essential. 

Getting a new roof, whether metal or asphalt, is often the best option for homeowners who need to fix extensive damage or want better peace of mind regarding the durability of their house. 

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