28 Facts About Roof Replacement That You Can’t Afford to Miss

Twenty-eight facts about a roof replacement are a lot of information. However, some of these facts might be something you don’t already know, and therefore are worth learning. Before you begin your roofing project, become a well-informed 

1. You can put a new roof on over an old one to save time, but only if the local and state laws allow it.
2. A total roof tear-off takes a max of 3 days, depending on the size, shape, and style of your roof. Smaller homes have a roof tear-off in one day.
3. Changing the roof’s primary material is possible. A lot of people choose metal roofs after having asphalt shingles on the roof before.
4. The most complicated roof to install is a terra cotta one because all the shingles have to fit together and be plastered to seal.
5. Modern metal roofs have lifetime warranties when you purchase and install the right ones.
6. Metal roofs don’t have to look industrial. Many styles look like wood or asphalt shingles but are actually metal.
7. Wood Shaker shingle roofs look nice but require the most upkeep to prevent water damage and leaks.
8. Weather permitting, you can have a complete roof replacement in about five business days or less.
9. The best season for a roof replacement is summer because the long days allow the crew to get more done.
10. You can save money if you have your roof replaced in spring or fall instead of peak season of summer.
11. In Texas, you can still install a new roof in winter, weather permitting.
12. Anyone could nail shingles to a roof, but you should only hire a licensed and insured contractor to avoid being sued. If you need to sue the roofer, you stand a better chance if the roofer is licensed. 
13. A traditional shingle roof only lasts 20 years.
14. You need a permit to replace the roof. Make sure your contractor is going to take care of that or you could get into a lot of legal trouble with the local municipality.
15. Make sure the local building and code inspector checks the final roof, so it passes code inspection. 
16. Premium roofing systems can only be installed by certified contractors or the warranties these systems come with become null and void.
17. Your roof project should be scheduled in case it is necessary to vacate during the first couple of days of the project. 
18. It is helpful to make room for your contractor to drop a dumpster to dispose of materials or park a dump truck. 
19. Bad weather stalls the project. This includes extreme heat and a ton of rain.
20. Adding features or removing features from your roof increases the cost of the roof replacement. 
21. If rot or pests (e.g., termites) are found in the wood of the trusses in your roof or attic, the project is stalled until these issues are addressed.
22. New roofs need maintenance too. Don’t skip the usual seasonal maintenance this year just because your roof is new.
23. If something goes awry with the roof in the first couple of months, make sure the same contractor comes back to check it out and fix it.
24. Some roofing contractors offer their own guarantees or warranties on their work. Get it in writing if they do.
25. Roofs need proper ventilation. Make sure your contractor accounts for this and has the right roof vents installed.
26. Gutters are not optional roofing accessories. They serve a purpose and need to be on your home.
27. Roofing estimates are usually free. Get more than one for comparison.
28. Roofing projects vary widely depending on the contractor and company. For the best price on your roof replacement, shop around.

There is always more to learn about roofs and roof replacements. Being the well-informed homeowner and consumer helps you get the best roof possible for the best price. Roofing contractors recommend that homeowners do all they can to become familiar with this process and adjust their personal expectations accordingly. 

Research Anything You Don’t Know

If you have never replaced the roof on your home, research anything you don’t already know. Living in the age of digital information, it’s not difficult to access answers to your questions and confirm the answers with a handful of skilled contractors. Your next roof is something you have to live with for at least twenty years (more if you buy a metal roof), and you should not regret your purchase because you didn’t know enough.