When it comes to houses, the roof is one of the most important components. It keeps your family safe, dry, and warm, serving as the first line of protection for what is most people’s biggest investment — their homes.
An adequately remodeled roof can improve a home’s appearance and increase its lifespan. It can also add value to your home and make it more energy efficient.
If you’re thinking about doing a roof remodel, it’s helpful to understand everything that goes into a roof remodel, what to expect during the remodel, and what your options are.
How to Prepare for a Roof Remodel
Before starting a roof remodel, it’s vital to do your research and plan ahead. This will help ensure that the project goes smoothly and you end up with the results you want.
If your roof is in good condition, repairing it may be all that’s needed; however, if it’s damaged or worn out, replacement may be necessary.
Once you’ve decided on repair or replacement, the next step is to choose the right materials for your project. There are a variety of options available, so it’s important to select those that will best meet your needs and budget. The most common choices for roofing materials include:
Asphalt Shingles
By far the most popular choice of material, as well as the most affordable, asphalt shingles should be expected to last for 20 to 30 years.
Wood Shingles
A natural material with great looks, wood shingles are usually made of cedar and are often combined with other materials. More expensive than asphalt shingles, they’re often banned in areas facing fire danger. When maintained properly, these roofs can last 30 to 50 years.
Slate Roofs
While very expensive, slate shingles look fantastic and will last up to 50 years. It’s also heavy and requires a substantial roof structure to hold the weight.
Metal Roofs
You can find a variety of metal roofing materials from galvanized steel (low-end) to copper (high-end). They’re usually found in agricultural buildings like sheds and stables as well as structures in snowy areas. The cost of metal has increased significantly in the last year, yet it remains the newest popular trend for giving homes a more modern look.
What to Expect During a Roof Remodel
Roof remodels tend to be somewhat straightforward projects for most homes. Here are the steps you can expect to take place during your roof remodel.
Planning
Before starting a roof remodel, it’s important to have a plan in place. This means knowing what kind of roof you want, what materials you’ll need, and how much the project will cost.
Preparation
Once you have a plan, the next step is to prepare your home for the remodel. This includes things like removing any loose or damaged shingles, repairing any damage to the roof deck, and making sure the area around your home is clear of debris.
Installation
The next step is to install your new roof. This process will vary depending on the type of roof you’re installing, but it typically involves putting down a layer of felt paper and then installing shingles or other roofing material.
Finishing Touches
After your new roof is installed, there are a few finishing touches that need to be done in order to finalize the project, including trimming, painting, gutters, and clean-up.
How to Find a Contractor for Your Roof Remodel
When it comes to roof remodeling, it’s important to take care of all the details upfront to ensure a successful project. Here are four tips for making your new roof renovation go smoothly.
1. Have a professional inspection performed first to assess the condition of your current roof and identify any potential problems.
2. Choose a reputable and experienced contractor who can handle the entire project from start to finish.
3. Ask plenty of questions and get all of the details in writing before work begins.
4. Make sure to have your new roof regularly inspected and maintained by a professional technician so that it looks its best for years to come.
If you’re not sure where to start, talk to a professional roofing contractor like VPC Builders about your options. We’ve installed and remodeled a wide range of roofs and can guide you through the process of choosing materials, planning, and of course the work itself.
Contact us today.