It’s that time of year when winter is over and home improvement projects come to mind. Roof installation is not a project that happens very often. However, it is a major project when you need a new one. It’s best to be completely informed before you take the plunge and get a new roof.
Roof installation can be a very complex project. There are some things that you need to know and understand before you start this process. When it comes to roofing contractors there are both good and bad ones out there. Some may try to talk you into an expensive new roof even when this is not called for, but others will be honest and up front about any problems.
Some things that you need to know about this type of improvement include:
- The cost of a new roof can be low, high, or anywhere in between depending on all of the relevant factors involved.
- Dimensional shingles are just one of the shingle types that you can choose from, so find out what your options are ahead of time.
- A new roof should usually involve new flashing and other related components to get the best results and the longest life from this structure.
- Your choice of roofing contractor will be a big factor in whether you get a great outcome or you are very disappointed with the results that you get.
- It is possible to stay within your budget and still get the roof you need, when you understand how to make changes to lower costs without lowering the quality or end result.
- Get a minimum of two to three written estimates from roofers in the area, and then compare these to see if each contractor is offering you a competitive price.
The Cost of a Roof Installation can Vary Widely
When you need roof installation cost is always a concern, and you will want to know a rough amount that you will need to spend. Each home and homeowner is different, and each case will involve different additional work, different materials, and other factors that will be reflected in the price.
Most existing roofs will need to be torn off before the new shingles applied. This needs to be figured in with your roof installation calculations. If your roof is very steep, it may require walk boards or other special equipment to get the job done. The cost of a roof installation on a steep roof is generally considerably higher than a roof that is easy to walk.
What are Dimensional Shingles, and Should I Use Them or Another Type Instead?
Dimensional shingles are shingles that provide a three dimensional pattern or appearance, while traditional three tab shingles give a repeating pattern on the roof. A new roof installation means picking the best shingles for your home. If you are not sure which products will work best then discuss this with the roofing contractor you will use for the job.
Always Replace Flashing and Other Components When a New Roof is Installed
Some roof installation experts may tell you that new flashing is not needed when a new roof is installed. But this material should usually be replaced when you have a new roof put on to ensure the best performance and the longest life. Some contractors prefer not to replace flashing because of the low profit margin involved.
Often times the first place that starts leaking on roofs is around the flashing. Chimney flashing is one area where leaks often occur. Membranes can be applied to ensure a water-tight area.
Flashing prevents rainwater or snow melt from running down the chimney into living spaces where it can damage ceilings and walls and cause rot in rafters.
Source: Chimney Safety Institute of America
Make Sure You Choose a Qualified Roofing Contractor That You Trust
The contractor you use for roof installation is a very important decision, one that you could end up regretting if you are not careful. Make sure to interview a few contractors closely before you finally pick one for your home improvement needs.
Read our article here for some common FAQs about choosing roofing contractors.
There are Many Options to Help You Stay Within Budget
New roof installation can be costly, but there are ways that you can lower the price and still get a quality roof that looks great. If you choose dimensional shingles, cedar shakes, slate, or other roofing products and the project cost is too high then you can make changes to lower it while maintaining a high degree of quality.
Always Compare Written Estimates Before Choosing the Right Company
Get written estimates for roof installation from several contractors, and make sure that each estimate involves the same products and components. If one estimate lists dimensional shingles as the product then the other estimates should also include this item. Read the fine print to make sure you are comparing apples to apples.
Have you ever had roof installation performed, and how did it turn out?
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