Summary
Installing a new roof is something we do all the time at Summit Roofing of NC so we often overlook the fact that for the average homeowner, this could be a first-time experience or one they haven’t had in many years.
It’s natural to have questions about a new roof. After all, it protects your home and your family!
We are going to answer the top 10 questions we get about installing a new roof but if you have any other questions please feel free to contact us. We’ll happily answer any and all questions you may have. If you’re wondering how you know if it’s time to replace your roof you can find out by reading New Year, New Roof: Is it Time to Replace?
1. How long does a roof installation take?
The answer to this question really depends on a number of factors. When we calculate the time it takes to install a new roof we take into account the size of your home (this will determine how much roof needs to be installed), what the weather conditions will be like at that time of year (fair weather vs inclement weather), any upgrades you want, and finally the complexity of your roof. For simple roof projects, we can typically complete them in a day. For more complex ones it could last a few days.
2. How do I prepare for a new roof installation?
Getting your house ready for the installation of a new roof will help keep both your home and your family safe.
You will want to make sure that all vehicles are moved away from your home. There could be falling debris that could cause damage during a roof installation. The same goes for any patio furniture, grills, etc. that are near your house. If you are able, move them to a safe location either inside your garage or further away from your house.
If your kids and pets will be inside while the roof is being installed you may want to have them spend the day at a neighbor’s or friend’s house. It will be noisy! And as a precaution we always let homeowners know that the vibrations for the roof installation could cause decorations in your home to fall, so moving them to a safe spot is a good idea.
3. When I get an estimate for a new roof, what should it include?
As with any estimate you get from a reputable contractor, you will want to be sure the basic company information such as name, address, and phone number are included.
Next, you should make sure the estimate includes a detailed description of the project so there are no surprises. If you feel the estimate is too vague don’t be shy to ask questions. If the contractor cannot answer them it’s probably a good idea to find a different contractor!
And finally, the estimate should include a timeline for the completion of the roof installation. You will want to know the contractor can handle your project in a timely manner and commit to starting and finishing it.
4. What can I do to extend the life of my roof?
One of the best ways to make sure your roof lasts is to have it inspected regularly. During a roof inspection, we often find missing shingles or shingles that have detached, revealing soft spots or rotten wood underneath. Leaving these problem areas unaddressed can cost you thousands of dollars in future repair costs.
If there are large trees near your home you will want to be sure to keep their branches trimmed and away from your roof. Clogged gutters that aren’t draining properly allow water to build up. When water gets trapped under the shingles, it can damage the edge of your roof and the underlying materials. So keep the gutters clean and extend the life of your roof!
- Clay tiles also fare well in North Carolina and last 40 years on average.
5. How can I tell that my roof needs to be replaced?
Short of having a professional roof inspection, there are several signs a roof may need to be replaced.
If you notice missing shingles this is a sign that your roof is nearing its life expectancy and needs to be replaced as soon as possible to avoid water damage to your home. In some cases, shingles will crack or curl which means they are no longer providing a proper seal and are exposing the roof to leaks and moisture damage. This may be a situation that can be repaired but it could also be time to replace the entire roof.
If you have asphalt roofing shingles you’ll want to look for missing granules. You will find these fragments in the gutter system or possibly on your driveway. When these granules come loose, the shingles’ performance can be compromised and you should consider replacing your roof.
Damaged and leaking roofs often are discovered by homeowners when they notice stains on their ceilings or take a glance up in their attics and find damp rafters or other signs of water. If this happens to you, you’ll want to get your roof inspected immediately. It may be time to replace your roof.
6. What does it mean to replace the entire roof system?
If it’s recommended that you replace the entire roof system it means all components of your roof will be replaced. This includes the leak barrier protection for areas such as the valleys and chimney, the roof underlayment which adds an additional layer of protection against leaks, starter strip shingles to ensure a double layer of protection at the exposed edges of the roof, high-quality asphalt shingles to ensure the maximum life span of your roof, and proper ventilation for airflow which is essential to the integrity of your roof.
7. What are the different types of asphalt shingles?
Historically, the most commonly used type of asphalt shingles was “three tab shingles”. The “tab” in the name refers to the cutouts along the lower edge of these types of shingles, which gives one shingle the appearance of three.
Nowadays, the most commonly used asphalt shingles are architectural shingles. Architectural shingles provide a more dimensional look to the roof and some even resemble cedar shake shingles. Because of their thickness and durability, we commonly recommend these shingles to customers. Architectural shingles can last 30 years or longer as compared to three-tab shingles lasting 20 or so years.
8. How long will my roof last?
With a properly installed and well-maintained asphalt shingle roof you can expect your roof to last anywhere from 20 to 30 years or more depending on the quality of the shingles used. You may start to notice natural wear and tear around the 15-year mark that could lead to more serious damage. When your roof begins to show wear and tear, be sure to have it inspected on a regular basis so any minor damage can be repaired quickly without leading to more serious damage.
If you’re unsure how old your roof is, it’s a good idea to have it inspected so you can avoid any surprises and plan for the appropriate maintenance to extend its life.
9. How much does a new roof cost?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors but the main one is the size of your roof. Roof size is measured in 100 square foot increments called a square. Pricing is done per square and typically includes removing the existing shingles and installing new underlayment and new shingles. The price per square depends on the grade of asphalt shingle you choose. Any extras like skylights and gutters are priced separately.
10. Is there a warranty on new roofs?
Similar to roofing prices, roofing warranties vary depending on the company that roofs your home and the type of shingles you select. The warranty on the labor will depend on the company installing your new roof. The warranty on the shingle will be determined by the shingle supply company. Either way new roofs come with warranties but always do your due diligence when it comes to a roof warranty before getting a new roof.
Ask the Roofing Experts at Summit Roofing of NC
If you’ve been wondering if it’s time to install a new roof on your home we hope we’ve answered some of the questions you may be asking yourself. Our professional and knowledgeable team is available to answer any additional questions you may have and to provide you with a free quote or roof inspection in the greater Triangle area. Contact us today.
