Your roof protects everything inside your home. But if it’s damaged or aging, it needsĀ Roof Replacement NJ.
Surface damage, as are leaks around chimneys and skylights, is fairly easy to repair. But it’s time for a replacement if the damage is extreme or extensive. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
When homeowners decide to replace their roofs, they need to choose a roofing material that will protect their home and compliment its appearance. The type of roofing material will also determine how much value the roof adds to their home upon resale. There are many different types of roofing materials, each offering their own benefits and drawbacks. Some are more expensive than others, but they may offer energy efficiency or a unique look that increases resale value.
When choosing a roofing material, you should consider your budget and the type of weather in your region. Some roofing materials are not suited for certain locations, while others will require more maintenance than other types. Additionally, the cost of repair and replacement is a major factor to consider when selecting a roofing material.
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material and are an affordable option with a 20-year life expectancy. They come in a variety of styles, colors, and textures that can add a modern look to your home or give it a more traditional feel. Wood shingles are an alternative to asphalt and give your home a natural, rustic look that will increase the resale value of your property. Shakes are split into wedges to create a rougher texture and will add more character to your home’s appearance, though they will be more costly than shingle options.
Metal roofs are another popular choice for their durability and attractiveness. They are able to withstand high winds, hail, and other extreme weather conditions. The most common metal roofs are made of steel or aluminum and covered with a high-quality baked-on coating or mineral granules. They are also available in a wide range of colors to complement your home’s exterior and will last 30 to 50 years.
Another option is to use rubber roofs, which are composed of recycled rubber and plastic. They can be manufactured to mimic the look of clay tiles, slate, and wood shakes. The downside to this type of roof is that it can be noisy and will absorb a significant amount of heat.
A new roof protects your home and keeps the elements out. It can also improve the curb appeal of your house. Your roofing contractor can help you choose the right materials based on your location, budget, and aesthetic preferences. There are many different options available, including asphalt shingles, clay tiles, metal, and wood shakes. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Once you’ve selected a material, the roofing team will begin the installation process. They’ll remove the old shingles and underlayment, inspecting the deck for any damage. They’ll then put down the new underlayment and start putting on the shingles.
The duration of this process depends on a few factors, including the size of your roof and the roofing material you choose. A typical asphalt roof can be replaced in a day, but metal roofs may take longer. Also, complex roofs with chimneys, skylights, and dormers will require extra time to install.
Your roofing contractor will replace any vents that are damaged or outdated, as well as add any additional ones you want for attic ventilation. They’ll also install any ridge capping. This prevents moisture from leaking into your attic and increases the lifespan of your new roof.
Moss, mold, and fungi can grow on dark areas of your roof, locking in moisture and leading to damage over time. Once you notice this growth, it’s a sign that it’s time to get your roof replaced.
Once the roof is finished, your contractor will do a quality check and walk the roof for any leaks or other issues. They’ll also inspect the flashing, which is the material that covers joints in your roof like the eaves, roof valleys, and around chimneys and wood stove pipes. They’ll replace this if necessary, or seal it with roofing cement to ensure water doesn’t leak into your home.
To prepare for the re-roofing, clear out the attic and move any sentimental or fragile items to storage or a friend’s house for the duration of the project. It’s a good idea to keep pets indoors, too, as hammers and strangers can disturb them. If you have a pet crate, it’s best to place them in it for this time.
Most homeowners will see the phrase “Lifetime Warranty” on the trucks and business cards of many roofing contractors in the DFW area. However, it is important for homeowners to understand exactly what this means before making a hiring decision based solely on this claim.
Most manufacturers will offer a standard product warranty of around 40-50 years. However, they are not always as comprehensive as they appear on the surface. These warranties typically do not cover damage to roof-level components like parapet walls, copings, bulkheads and pavers as well as leakage caused by storm damage or other acts of nature.
In addition, these standard warranties may be prorated after 5-10 years meaning that the amount of money the manufacturer will pay to replace a defective material or workmanship will depreciate over time. This is a key reason why it is essential to work with a contractor who can provide an upgraded roof warranty that will not be prorated and will extend beyond the original manufacturer’s limited coverage.
A quality upgraded roof warranty will also extend beyond the initial material and workmanship warranties to include other aspects of the roofing system that can contribute to leaks and roof failure such as underlayment, flashing and ventilation. This will help protect the investment in your roof as well as the rest of the building.
Finally, it is important to remember that most warranty plans will have specific stipulations that must be followed in order to receive the full benefits of your roofing system. These stipulations can include things like the need for routine maintenance, such as annual inspections and cleaning of gutters in order to maintain the validity of your roof warranty. Failure to follow these stipulations will void your roof warranty.
With so much to keep in mind when selecting a contractor and roofing system, it is imperative that you take your time and carefully evaluate each candidate for the job. Ask any prospective roofing contractor questions, and be sure to review the warranty information carefully so that you can be confident in your hiring decision.
A roof replacement is a significant investment, and you want to make sure it lasts as long as possible. Proactive roof maintenance can significantly extend a roof’s lifespan, delaying the need for a full replacement by years.
Roof maintenance procedures include cleaning, patching, risk mitigation and inspection. While many homeowners and business owners are reluctant to invest in proactive maintenance, it is an effective way to extend a roof’s life expectancy and save on costly repairs and replacement costs down the line.
Regular maintenance procedures should also include a review of the attic and ceiling, as issues with one may affect the other. For example, cracks in the attic and ceiling can indicate underlying issues with the roof. These are often caused by moisture penetration and can be easily corrected by a professional roofer.
If a problem is identified, it is important to fix these issues before the roof begins to leak. This will prevent damage to the interior of the house and may even prevent future roof damage from occurring. Our roofing experts will work with you to find the best solution to fix these problems and make sure they are properly executed.
It is important to clean your roof regularly to remove moss and algae, as these can cause the shingles to break down or crack. You should also check the flashing, which is a metal strip that seals gaps between other components on your roof, such as chimneys and vent pipes, for signs of deterioration or leakage. It is also wise to inspect eaves and gable ends for rotting wood, which should be replaced with new wood before water damage occurs.
You should clear the attic during a roof replacement to prevent sentimental items, such as old photographs and toys, from being exposed to hammering and dust. It is also a good idea to cover the attic floor with tarps or painter’s drop sheets to protect it from dirt and debris that will accumulate during the roof replacement. It is also a good idea to keep pets indoors during the roofing process, as noise and strangers can be stressful for them.