Roofing replacement involves removing the existing roof, making structural repairs (if needed), and replacing it with a new one. It may qualify as an insurance claim under some homeowners’ policies.
Aesthetics tend to be a bigger concern for residential roofing, but appearance matters to commercial and industrial property owners, too.
A roofing replacement involves completely removing the old layers of shingles and replacing them with new materials. This can be an expensive proposition, but it offers the best protection against water leakage and other damage. In addition, the removal process can allow for a full inspection of the roof deck and other parts of the structure.
The cost of a roof replacement depends on the type of roofing material used and the area in which the building is located. The climate conditions in the region will also influence the price, as certain roofs may need specialized materials to deal with extreme weather.
Re-roofing is cheaper than a complete roof replacement, but it can be problematic in some situations. For example, if the existing layer of shingles is in good shape but one part of the roof has significant deterioration, re-roofing won’t be enough to address it.
Another issue with re-roofing is that it can cause the roof to look uneven. The second layer of shingles can’t lay flat over the contours of the first layer, especially with higher-quality shingles like architectural shingles that are more dimensional than 3-tab shingles.
In addition to the cost of shingles, a roof replacement estimate typically includes the costs of underlayment and flashing. The underlayment is a layer of material that protects the underlying sheathing from moisture, and the flashing is a sheet of metal installed in areas prone to leaks, such as roof valleys and chimneys.
Materials
The materials that make up a roof play an important role in the overall quality of a roofing project. Roofing contractors must have access to the right tools and materials to ensure a good job. These items can include a nail gun, a utility knife and a chalk line. Having the proper materials can help speed up the work and ensure that it is done correctly.
During the re-roofing process, contractors will first inspect your existing roof to see what condition it is in. Then they will discuss your options. You may want dimensional shingles to add curb appeal, three-tab shingles for cost efficiency or clay tiles for durability and longevity. Your contractor can explain the strengths and weaknesses of these and other roofing materials to help you choose the best option for your home.
One of the most important roofing materials is underlayment, an additional layer that protects the roof deck from water and moisture. It prevents wood rot and allows the installer to inspect the underside of your roof for soft spots that need repair. There are different types of underlayment, including felt paper and modified bitumen or synthetic material.
The type of roofing material you choose also depends on the pitch (angle) of your roof. For instance, metal sheeting is ideal for flat and low-pitched roofs, while composite shakes offer the look of traditional wood shakes or slate but require less maintenance. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monome (EPDM) rubber is another popular roofing material, especially for flat or low-pitched roofs. It is durable and resists impact, sun and heat damage.
Installation
Re-roofing involves covering the existing roof with a new layer of roofing material. It is generally more cost effective than replacing the entire roof, but it may not be the best option for your home. In some cases, re-roofing can result in an uneven surface or damage to the underlayment. Additionally, if the old shingles are already curled or missing, the second layer will not lay flat and may be more susceptible to leaks and winds. If you are considering re-roofing, it is recommended that you have an experienced roofer inspect your roof before work begins. An inspector will walk on the roof to see how many layers exist, and will peel back some shingles to determine if the structure is sound.
During the roofing replacement process, tarps will cover your yard or garden to catch fallen shingles and nails. It is a good idea to remove any plants, toys, or garden equipment from the area so that they are not damaged or covered with debris. You should also have your pets stay inside during this time, as hammering noises and strangers can be stressful for dogs, cats, and even hamsters.
Once the tarps are in place, the roofers will begin working on the top of your house. They will start by removing any shingles, tiles, or metal that are still intact. Then, they will install your new roof. This includes the shingles, underlayment, and sheathing, as well as any insulation or ventilation necessary for your specific home. Finally, they will install drip edge flashing along the edges of your roof, as well as valley flashing and ice and water sheathing in the roof valleys, on gable ends, around chimneys or other projections, and in other leak-prone areas.
Maintenance
HOA managers should develop an ongoing maintenance program to ensure that the community’s roofing materials continue to protect the property and its residents for years to come. This should include inspections to check for accumulated dirt or debris, the status of drains, and the integrity of any protective membranes or seals around roof penetrations such as vents and chimneys. It should also include inspections for a variety of things that could affect the health and longevity of the roof, including tree limbs that overhang the roof, leaks in or around the home, or excess condensation in the attic.
HOAs can also improve the lifespan of their roofing by re-roofing, or adding a second layer to the existing roof. This is typically done when the roof is nearing the end of its life but still has a good amount of life left in it. However, re-roofing doesn’t repair damaged underlayment or weatherstripping. Furthermore, putting a new layer of shingles over an uneven surface is not ideal for aesthetics. The shingle edges will tend to curl up and the resulting appearance can be less than appealing.
When a roof is being replaced, the roofers will first remove any rubber or lead boots from sanitary stacks or vents. They’ll then remove the old shingles and prepare the roof for the new one. This may involve the addition of ice and water sheathing or valley flashing in certain areas. The drip edge along the eaves is usually replaced as well. Finally, the roofer will apply a protective membrane to prevent moisture and mold from penetrating the attic. They’ll use a combination of coatings, such as asphalt tar and polyurethane, to provide long-term waterproof protection.