What to Know About Reroofing a Home
Many homeowners consider making home improvements, landscaping changes, and complete renovations
As spring approaches, many homeowners consider making home improvements, landscaping changes, and complete renovations. One of the most popular warm-weather projects is tackling any lingering roof issues. Sometimes these involve simple repairs, but in many cases, homeowners are facing old roofs that need to be completely redone.
Below, homeowners contemplating reroofing their homes this spring will find a handy guide of what to expect and what they can do now to simplify the process.
Partner with reliable roofing professionals
If one factor determines the quality of a reroofing experience, it’s the contractor a homeowner selects. Before moving forward, research the area’s professional roofers. Review their online presence, customer reviews, and marketing materials. Then, meet them face-to-face to understand their working style and their expertise.
Choose a roofer with industry-recognized certifications or a good rating from the Better Business Bureau. Always discuss licensure, permits, and insurance, as these ensure that a project and home are fully protected.
Read the job quotes thoroughly
When a roofing contractor comes out to evaluate the home, they should thoroughly inspect the property. Typically this includes climbing onto the roof. They will also inspect the area around the home for signs of drainage or other problems that could indicate roof or gutter issues. A thorough discussion will help them understand the most pressing concerns, including budget, timeframe, and any architectural or design goals to keep in mind.
A professional will provide job quotes in a timely fashion and crafted in a way that’s easy to understand. The quote should provide the following:
Anticipated job start and finish dates.
Details about provided materials and labor.
Additional information about warranties.
If there are questions about the information provided or if a homeowner feels critical data was left off the quote, follow up by phone for additional clarification on these points in writing. The sooner a homeowner has a comprehensive quote, the sooner the contractor can put them on the schedule.
Prepare for the process
Each roofing job is unique, depending on the home’s construction, the roof’s existing state, and what materials the homeowner has selected to use during the reroofing. In some cases, underlying structural damage may need to be repaired after the existing roofing is stripped away. Additional sealant and ventilation may also be required if problems with a hot roof or leaks exist.
On average, homeowners can expect a small and straightforward roofing project to be completed within a few days once the work begins. However, large or complicated projects, or those with extensive rot under the shingles, may take a week or more on a residential home. The roofing team should be entirely focused on completing the job for the project’s duration, except for any weather delays. A professional roofer will communicate with the homeowner throughout the process if any weather patterns necessitate a job delay and reassure them as to what steps they are taking to protect the inside of the house during inclement weather.
Contracts are critical
A professional roofing company will not undertake a project without a contract. Contracts lay out all the project details, including the scope of work, cost of materials, cost of labor, miscellaneous charges, timeframe, and warranties. Professional contracts will also address the issue of any hidden rot and include “not to exceed clauses.” Having a contract in place protects both the consumer and the company. Don’t do business with a roofer on a handshake. A home is too significant an investment to leave anything to chance.
Investing in a new roof for a home can improve living conditions and increase the property’s value. But it’s a significant undertaking, so knowing what to expect and finding the right partner will position a homeowner for a successful project. Homeowners ready to reroof their homes this year should contact a reliable, professional roofing contractor to discuss the project.
Your Roofologist is a Plano-based licensed roofing contractor specializing in consumer protection in the residential and commercial roofing industry for the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We offer services such as roof inspections, roof repair and replacement, and other exterior and home improvement repairs. We transform homes with ten years of experience backed by excellent service, pride in our workmanship, and a warranty. Call us at (469)535-7852.
