The roof of your home is both one of the most important parts of your home and the most mysterious. It isn’t easy to find out if something is wrong with your roof, and you can’t very easily DIY it either. Here is all you need to know about your roof, including the signs it needs replacing.
Roof Basics
The roof of a house is often determined by a series of factors including your location, the local culture, and your own personal taste. In certain areas, you may need to make sure your home is more resistant to fires, or to winter snow. Your roof’s resistance is determined by the kind of shingle used to cover it. There are many varieties ofshingles you can install based on your local area, the angle of your roof, and other factors. Most residential rooves are done in:
- Asphalt composition shingles
- Wood shakes or shingles
- Metal Roofing
- Slate roofing
- Composition slate
- Clay or ceramic tile
Traditionally, a new roof was installed over the old, with new shingles being layered over the old ones. However, this method is no longer allowed in some places. Adding new shingles without replacing what is under them can lead to structural problems over time, or even collapse if the roof can’t bear the weight. Therefore, it’s best to go to a company like Best Roofing to ensure any work on your roof is carried out properly. Your roof is what keeps the rest of your home safe and warm, so it’s in your best interests to invest in quality.
While a second layer may reduce labor costs, it can also exacerbate problems in the roof like bumps, bubbles, and waves. it’s often better to have the old roof stripped off before it’s replaced. This process often doesn’t take long but may cost slightly more than simply adding a second layer.
How Much Does It Cost?
A new roof can cost anywhere from $7000 – $70,000, the exact number is dependent on a number of factors including the kind of roofing materials you choose and whether you get a full replacement or a second layer. Additionally, you may have to purchase certain protectants depending on your climate and pay for the removal of waste.
Labor is also a large portion of the cost and is often determined by square footage and the pitch of your roof. A roof replacement is not the kind of project you should entertain lightly, but sometimes it has to be done.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Roof
As houses grow older they are more likely to need new roofing, in fact, the need for roofing is growing 4.9%per year. If you have a home that is 30 – 40 years old you need to start considering a roof replacement. It’s one of the biggest reasons to have your roof replaced.
Other reason you may need a roof replacement includes shingles become distorted or missing, bubbling or valleys appearing. You should be concerned if you start getting leaks, seeing shingle particulates in your gutters, or daylight through your roof boards. Any signs of water damage like spongey boards or mold should be taken seriously.
Your roof is important and you should keep a close eye on it. It protects your house from the elements but can’t last forever. Check your roof now and make sure you and your family will stay safe and dry underneath it.
