What You Need To Know About Replacing Your Roof
There are certain home renovations that you look forward to and others that can make you cringe at the thought. The roof is a part of the home that gets overlooked due to its location, but can in fact decide how comfortable you live. A well-maintained roof will protect your family from external elements for years to come. After all, who enjoys leaks? Unwanted and annoying leaks can lead to serious issues, like water damage around the home, that will prove to be quite costly if left unrepaired. So if you have been thinking of replacing your roof, there are a few things you might first want to consider.
1. Inspection leads to detection. Before you commit to replacing your roof, have your existing one inspected by professionals. Who knows, you might only need a few repairs that can save you thousands in the long run. Many reliable roofing companies provide inspection services to diagnose the physical condition of your current roof. They will also be able to detect weaknesses and failures that can lead to potential problems down the road.
2. Do your research or prepare to pay the price. Nobody wants to be on the suffering end of a scam, so do your research and then check again. Contractors who make low price guarantees and materials that cost next to nothing may prove to be too good to be true. As Remodeling magazine estimates roofing projects to cost over $19,000, a thorough internet search for referrals and company credentials can become your saving grace.
3. Stock up on the right stuff. Once you have identified your course of action, it is time to stock up on roofing supplies. As there are many shingle options available (asphalt, metal, slate, tile and wood), it is very important to choose the right one for your home and climate. Head to your local home improvement or roofing supply company and inspect all materials in person prior to purchase. Be sure to consult with a professional about the right supplies for your abode as everyone's needs are different.
4. Check with your home insurance. If your roof was the unfortunate victim of weather-related damage or an accident (e.g. a neighbor's tree falling), check with your home insurance about coverage. While most may not provide coverage for general wear and tear, you just might get some financial assistance to make replacing your roof more manageable on the wallet.
5. Hire a reputable professional. There are some projects that are great do-it-yourself options and some that are for the professionals. When it comes to major repairs or replacing a roof, some things are better left to the experts. The National Roofing Contractors Association offers guidelines on selecting a roofing contractor that may just save you heartache and pain. Always ask for references and make sure the prospective company has liability insurance. Bonus points to the companies who provide warranties on their work.
6. Keep up on maintenance or it'll cost you. Like visiting the doctor, annual roof check-ups can save you tears in the long run. Roofs take quite the beating each year as they are exposed to various weather elements including inescapable heat from direct sunlight, rain storms, snow and more. Simple cleaning routines, like removing visible debris, can help prevent future clogs and roof deterioration. If you don't want to make the trip to the roof, please contact a reputable contractor to service your home.
Tanvier Lee is a New York based lifestyle decorator, stylist and freelance writer. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
