We know roof replacements are a big decision and a significant investment, so it’s only normal for customers to have many questions about the process. After all, most consumers will only have to deal with a roof replacement once or twice in a lifetime, so it’s not a surprise that many people are unsure about what to expect.
As a professional roofing contractor, we believe it’s important for consumers to be as educated and informed as possible, so they’re able to make the best decision when it comes to their home and roof. With so many decisions to make, it can be hard to know where to start. To help, we compiled a list of five of the most frequently asked questions and answers related to roof replacements:
1. How Do I Know It’s Time For A Roof Replacement?
This is one of the most common questions we hear from customers. Deciding on the best time to spring for a roof replacement isn’t always easy. Unless your floor is covered with buckets, it may not be obvious that your roof needs attention. It’s actually very common for a roof to reach the end of its lifespan before experiencing a complete failure.
The best way to keep tabs on your roof’s health is by scheduling an annual roofing inspection with a professional contractor. A contractor can estimate the remaining years of your roofing system, which can help you to plan ahead and budget accordingly. If you haven’t had an inspection recently, below are some of the more obvious signs that you might need a roof replacement in the near future:
- Your roof’s age – All roofing materials have an average life expectancy, so your roof’s age can serve as a good indication as to whether a replacement will soon be required. Asphalt shingles can last 15 to 30 years, while metal roofs generally last 20 to 40 years. Stronger materials, like clay tiles, can last as long as 70 years.
- Condition of roofing materials – Warped, curling, or missing shingles will drastically expedite the need for a roof replacement when not fixed promptly. Inadequate shingles will expose the sheathing layer of the roof, which is highly susceptible to damage.
- Unwanted plant growth – Patches of algae or moss can lead to significant damage to your roofing materials. If you’re noticing larger patches of plant growth, there may be an underlying issue with your entire roofing system.
- Mold in the attic – The condition of your attic can say a lot about the health of your roof. If you can see sunlight shining through, chances are your roof may be deteriorating. Signs of water entry and mold may also indicate your roof is beginning to fail.
2. When Is The Best Time To Replace My Roof?
The best time for a roof replacement ultimately depends on where you live as weather can have a big impact. In Central Florida, we find that late winter and early spring are usually the best times for roof work. With mild temperature and limited severe weather, roofing contractors can work efficiently with limited disruption.
Summer roof replacements can present a number of challenges. Central Florida summers can bring pop-up thunderstorms and unexpected severe weather. Hurricane season also starts in June and extends into fall. By opting for a winter or spring replacement, you can help ensure your home is protected well before severe weather sets in.
3. How Long Does A Roof Replacement Take?
The answer ultimately depends on a number of factors. The average roof replacement takes between 2 and 3 days, but it could be longer depending on a number of factors. Larger roofs, or complex roofs (steep pitches) can take more time. The roofing materials you choose will also play a role. Asphalt shingles take an average of 1 to 3 days to install, while clay or slate tiles may take as long as a week in some cases. The other factor to consider is weather – rain and thunderstorms can really disrupt a project timeline.
Roof replacements can be disruptive, so many contractors will try to complete the work in a day if it’s possible. However, it’s always important to prioritize quality of work over speed. Given the importance of your roof, you want to make sure the project is done right.
4. How Much Will My Roof Replacement Cost?
The average residential asphalt shingle roof replacement costs around $8,000, but some roof replacements can cost well over $30,000. There are many factors that can drive the price tag higher or lower. Some roofing materials, like metal and tile, are much more expensive (but also last longer). The size of your roof will have a major impact on material and labor costs. If your roof is steep or has complex features, it may take a roofer longer to complete the project, which can impact cost as well.
The cost of your roof replacement will also be largely determined by the roofing professional you choose. Experienced contractors will naturally charge more for the work. While it may be tempting to work with a roofer that is less expensive, remember that a bad roof replacement can cost a lot more than a good roofer.
5. What Should I Do Before A Roof Replacement?
Roof replacements are noisy, disruptive, and cause a lot of debris, so it’s important to prepare your property and family accordingly. If you’re having your entire roof replaced, your contractor will first need to strip away the existing roof. This means nails, bolts, shingles, and bits of metal will be likely landing in your yard
As a result, you will need to move all vehicles away from the property. You can keep you car in the garage only if your garage is on the bottom floor of your home. Make sure to cover any shrubs and plants and remove grills and furniture from the patio. Clear your yard of any lawn decor or toys, as these can be hazards for your roofers.
Damage to the inside of a home is very rare, but it’s still worth taking the time to take any valuables out of the attic and remove art and pictures from your walls. The process can be fairly noisy, so you may want to consider temporarily relocating any kids or pets during the work.
As a consumer, the best way to ensure a successful roof replacement is by staying informed and working with a reputable contractor. If you have questions relating to roofing work in the Central Florida area, get in touch with us at Native Building Services & Roofing today. Our team has more than 30 years experience in the construction industry, and we’d be more than happy to answer your questions.
