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Replacing a roof is a big undertaking, and not one that the majority of homeowners undertake lightly, or without just cause.
If your roof is coming to the end of its lifespan, or you’re renovating your entire home and want to upgrade the roof at the same time, here are some things you do want to do, and some things you definitely don’t want to do:
Do’s:
- Think about choosing a different material for your roof
It’s not essential, or even necessarily recommended to opt for the same materials when replacing your roof, unless that’s what you want, of course. Discuss the options with your chosen roofing contractor, who can give you all the best up-to-date advice considering the style and location of your home.
- Check the materials before work commences
Never take for granted that the materials you ordered for roof, are the same ones that are going to arrive. While a reputable roofing contractor should be diligent and check all deliveries meticulously, it never hurts to check for yourself, especially when your hard earned money is at stake.
- Check wind and fire ratings
When having a conversation with your roofing contractor about materials for your new roof, enquire about their wind and fire resistance.
- Request a detailed estimate
A good estimate from an experienced roofing company, should be delivered to you in writing, and should always include the materials necessary for the project, along with time, labor, and an approximate start and finish date.
- Choose a roof that isn’t just practical, but attractive too
Although the primary purpose of a roof is to protect your home and everything in it, there’s no reason why it shouldn’t also look aesthetically pleasing, and complement the property. After all, a professionally installed roof can last up to 50 years, so you need to be sure that you’re going to be happy with the way it looks, as well as how it performs.
- Prepare your home once work is scheduled
Putting delicate, treasured and fragile items in a safe place while work gets underway is recommended, as some degree of shaking and vibrating may take place inside your home, as the roof is being replaced.
Don’ts:
- Fail to check the credentials of your chosen contractor
Asking around among friends and family is a great way to learn more about roofing contractors in your area, and online reviews (both on their own website and on independent review sites) can give you plenty of valuable insight into their credentials.
- Fall for scams from storm chasers
Sadly, storm chasers are renowned for coming into an area that has recently been hit by a storm or some sort of natural disaster, and trying to scam homeowners into entrusting their roof replacements to them. Promising swift repairs or replacements, they usually offer low prices that are hard to resist, but there’s no substitute for professional roofing companies, who can be distinguished from these scammers by their realistic prices and timeframes, and general professionalism.
- Take any shortcuts
There are always budget options when it comes to roofs, and if you want to pay a lot less for inferior materials and installation from a less-than professional contractor, you’re perfectly within your rights to do that. But, paying less for labor or materials will almost certainly result in a roof that doesn’t last as long as it might had you invested a little more heavily in it, and you’ll be paying out for repairs or a replacement much sooner.
Once you’ve found a good roofing contractor that you can trust, the rest should be simple, and you need never worry about the do’s and don’ts. They’ll advise you on all of the roofing options available to you according to your budget, and give you unbiased guidance to help you get the most from your investment.
