The roof is one of the most important components in protecting your home from the elements. Whether you decide to repair or replace it, understanding your options and consulting with a roofing contractor will help you make the best choice for your home.
Regular inspections by yourself or a professional will catch problems before they become severe and costly. Check for missing or damaged shingles, visible leaks in the attic and ceilings, and discoloured exterior walls.
Costs
Roofing costs can vary depending on the type of repair needed. Minor repairs, such as patching holes and repairing leaks, cost less than structural repairs that involve removing and replacing roof materials. The type of roof and its design also factor into repairs’ prices.
For instance, wood shingles, clay or slate tiles and tile roofs typically have higher per-square-foot maintenance costs than asphalt shingle roofs. They are also more expensive to replace if they sustain damage.
Rafter tails and the fascia and soffits attached to them are other roof components that can require costly repairs. These features are often damaged by excessive moisture or insects, and if they’re not repaired promptly, it can lead to larger structural problems.
Homeowners can utilize their home insurance to offset expenses related to roof repair in Kansas city. However, the type of coverage and specific perils covered will vary by policy. It’s important to speak with a professional about the details of your coverage to determine what costs, if any, are not covered by the insurance company.
Materials
Roofing materials can be expensive, but choosing a material that will hold up well over time is important. Asphalt shingles, for example, are the most common and affordable roofing material. They typically last for 30 years and are easy to repair. Repairs include fixing curled corners and applying roof sealant to cracks.
Roofers, including those from EMT Solar, also replace or fix flashing, which is metal placed around chimneys and where the roofing planes meet. This prevents water from penetrating the underlying decking, which can lead to wood rot and attic leaks.
When selecting a roofing contractor, read the fine print regarding warranties offered by the company. Manufacturer warranties protect the roofing material and typically cover damage caused by extreme weather or manufacturing defects. Warranty coverage varies between manufacturers and can range from several years to decades. Homeowners can also get an artistry warranty to protect against installation errors.
Inspections
Inspection will allow a roofing contractor to spot minor problems like cracked shingles, blown-off granules, and leaking caulking. When these are repaired before they become major issues, a homeowner can keep their roof in good condition and maintain their warranty coverage.
Roofing specialists can also inspect the basic envelope of the home, checking that it is watertight and well-constructed. This includes inspecting the gutters and downspouts, window seals, and how the walls and roof meet. A specialist will look for moisture marks or brown stains, which may indicate a leak.
A professional can also ensure that the roof is installed according to manufacturer standards, which will help the homeowner maintain their warranty. Some warranties are voided if a contractor uses materials not approved by the manufacturer, such as shingle grades or flashing types. These details can seem small, but they are important to ensure the roof is built correctly and will protect the house for many years. Finally, a roofing company should also plan how to dispose of the old shingles and other debris from the roof replacement or repair. This must be fine with the landscaping, driveway or nearby bushes and flowers.
Repairs
Even the most durable roofs can suffer from damage and require repairs from time to time. The best way to determine if your roof needs repair is to have a roofing contractor inspect your home. This allows them to spot problems like missing shingles and tiles, cracks and holes, and leaks.
Surface repairs are relatively easy, like replacing damaged shingles or patching holes. Similarly, replacing flashing, the thin metal pieces that line roof valleys and prevent leaks around features such as skylights and chimneys, is fairly straightforward. However, a simple roof replacement or repair can only sometimes repair major structural issues.
If a roof has sustained extreme physical damage, it may need to be replaced entirely rather than resurfaced with new materials. However, high-quality materials and a reputable roofing contractor can help ensure your roof lasts as long as possible. Moreover, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance and inspections, as this can help extend the life of your roof. In addition, you should also review any insurance coverage or financing options that may be available for your specific situation.
Replacement
Whether to repair or replace your roof is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make for your home. There are many factors to consider, including your roof’s age and condition, how long you plan on staying in your home, and whether or not you have a viable insurance claim.
A well-maintained roof is your house’s best defence against falling shingles, ice dams, and rainwater that seeps in around chimneys and roof windows. Your roof also provides shelter for birds, squirrels, and other critters that want to nest in your house for the winter or escape fall rainstorms.
Regular inspections can help you spot problems before they escalate. If possible, the first step is to get into your attic or crawl space and look around. Inspect the sheathing boards and shingles for damage, especially rotting wood. If you find rotting or softened sheathing boards, replace them with new plywood or one by six sheathing boards. Inspect the flashings around chimneys and roof windows to ensure they’re still secure. Then, lay down a layer of asphalt roofing paper over the sheathing boards.
