What Homeowners Need to Know About Getting a New Roof on Their Home

The roof over your home may be more important than you realize; a roof doesn't just protect your home from the elements. It is part of the structural support and insulation of the home. This is why it's good to have that roof repaired when needed, no matter the expense; it's also good to know when a roof is beyond repairing and needs replacement. Note a few factors to consider about your home's roof replacement needs, and then discuss these with a roofing contractor as needed.

Why replace an old roof if it's not leaking?

Leaks are not the only reason to have a roof replaced; over the years, shingles will become thin and brittle, so that they cannot insulate the home as well as they should. Those shingles are also very heavy, and a lighter material such as metal may be better for an older home with a frame that is starting to shift and settle.

Note that the expected lifespan of a roof typically depends on the material used and general weather conditions; in areas with lots of strong storms, a roof can wear down quickly, more so than one in an area with a more mild climate. Once your roof has reached its expected lifespan, and especially if your home is consistently exposed to inclement weather, consider replacing the roof so that it protects and insulates your home, even if it hasn't yet shown any signs of leaking.

Does leaking always mean the roof needs replacing?

Torn flashing or roofing paper, and missing or torn shingles can be replaced, and a roof is as good as new. However, if the roof is badly damaged with lots of leaks and is reaching the end of its expected lifespan, you may want to consider just replacing it; the cost of fixing all those leaks may be close to the cost of a new roof anyway. Discuss your options with a roofing contracting, taking into account the age of the roof as well as its overall condition.

What is an annual roofing cost?

The annual roofing cost refers to the cost of installation as well as expected maintenance and repairs over the expected lifespan of the roof. This average cost is important to consider, as some roofing materials are more expensive to install, but may require less maintenance and may last far longer than standard asphalt shingles. The annual roofing cost of such materials will actually be lower, so they may be a better investment. Be sure you're considering the cost of maintenance and the lifespan of the material when choosing a new roof for your home.


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