Should I Trust Online Reviews for Roof Repair or Replacement?
If you are in the market for roof repair or replacement, it may be tempting to rely on reviews you have read online to find a great contractor. It is true that online reviews can be helpful, but the best advice is to do more thorough research before hiring. Use the online reviews to narrow down the field of contractors, and then base your decision on all of the information available.
Evaluate Your Sources
Look for reviews from reputable websites, such as Google, Bing, or Yelp concerning roof repair companies. Be wary of reviews on a contractor's own website or social media pages, as they may be biased or selectively edited. The best source of qualified referrals is among the people you associate with regularly, including friends, relatives, and coworkers.
Paid Vs. Voluntary Reviews
Some online review sites accept payments from contractors in exchange for favorable-- and fake-- reviews. You will get better, more dependable information from voluntary reviews than from paid ones. Don't rely on a single review to make your decision. Read several reviews to get a more comprehensive understanding of the contractor's performance.
Look For Patterns
Pay attention to common themes or issues mentioned in multiple reviews. If many people mention poor communication or subpar workmanship, for example, it's likely that there is some truth to those claims. Take extreme reviews (both positive and negative) with a grain of salt. Sometimes, people will leave overly glowing reviews in exchange for incentives, or they may leave negative reviews as a result of a one-time negative experience.
View Ratings as a Group
While one or two negative reviews shouldn't necessarily disqualify a contractor, if the overall rating is consistently low, it may be a red flag. You can't make such an important decision based on a single review, but you can form a relatively reliable opinion based on the average rating of several. Online reviews can be a useful tool in your search for a roofing contractor, but they should not be the sole determining factor. Be sure to do your research, ask for references, and trust your instincts when making your decision.
The Better Business Bureau
While the BBB can be a helpful resource, it's important to note that not all contractors will be listed on their website, and some contractors may choose not to participate in the rating system. Be sure to look beyond the overall rating and read the reviews and complaints in detail. Pay attention to how the contractor responded to any complaints and whether they were resolved to the customer's satisfaction. You can also check to see if the contractor is accredited by the BBB or any other industry organizations, which can be a sign of their commitment to quality and professionalism.
Online reviews are a great source of insight and may reveal patterns of excellence in roof replacement contractors. The key is that these reviews are only one aspect involved in vetting a contractor. The final decision should be made after verifying licensing and insurance, evaluating online reviews, and speaking with the contractor personally.
Is It a Good Idea to Use the Same Contractor for Residential Roofing and Exteriors?
Using the same contractor for both residential roofing and exteriors can be a good idea for several reasons, but it ultimately depends on the specific contractor and their qualifications. It's important to thoroughly research any contractor you are considering, regardless of whether they specialize in one area or multiple areas of home improvement.
Basic Attributes to Look For
A good contractor should have a significant amount of experience in the roofing and exteriors industry. They should have the necessary licenses and insurance to operate in your area. This will help ensure that they comply with local regulations and construction codes, and that you are protected in case of any accidents or damage. Lastly, a reputable contractor should provide high-quality workmanship and use quality materials. This will help ensure that your roof and exteriors are durable, long-lasting, and able to withstand the elements.
You Know What to Expect
Using the same contractor for both roofing and exterior work can help ensure that the overall design and aesthetic of your home's exterior is cohesive and consistent. Becoming familiar with the routines of your contractors can make the project progress more smoothly, so maintaining consistency is often the best idea. Some contractors show up on time every time, and others take a more leisurely approach. When you find the former, you won't be in a hurry to hire the latter.
Single Contractors are Convenient
Working with a single contractor for multiple projects can be more convenient than hiring multiple contractors, as it simplifies communication and coordination. Instead of describing your expectations multiple times, a single contractor can help coordinate the work, often leading to more expedient construction completion.
Combo Deals and DiscountsSome contractors may offer package deals or discounts for customers who hire them for multiple projects, potentially resulting in cost savings. You probably won't be able to knock a huge portion of the bill, but any discount amounts to less out-of-pocket cost.
Property Awareness
A contractor who has worked on both the roof and exterior of your home may have a better understanding of the property and any unique considerations that need to be taken into account. If there are special instructions-- a keycode at the gate, for instance-- keeping the information as closely restricted as possible is in your benefit. Similarly, it saves you a lot of time to be able to show a contractor around once than to have to do it multiple times when both contractors will be using the same property resources.
Ultimately, the most important factor is finding a contractor who is qualified, trustworthy, and able to deliver the results you are looking for, whether they specialize in one area or multiple areas of home improvement. Friends, family, and coworkers are often the easiest way to get information about great contractors, and you may be warned away from noteworthy shysters as well. You may occasionally come across spiteful reviews online that should be taken with a grain of salt, but recommendations from those you associate with on a regular basis are fairly reliable in most situations.
Getting a Tax Refund? Why Not Renovate With Roof Repair or Replacement?
Home repairs and renovations-- including roof repair or replacement-- are a great way to turn a tax refund into a home investment. Depending on the condition of the roof being replaced, you could see an immediate return of about 60 to 68 percent of the project cost, but it adds even more base value if you plan to sell in a few years, especially if a roof in poor condition is replaced by a new roof material such as tile or metal.
Broken Shingles
Broken or missing shingles are the most common reason to get roof replacement or repair. When the shingles become damaged, they allow wind and water to get beneath the exterior covering. In time the water under your shingles will cause rot and has the potential to promote the growth of mold and mildew inside the home by increasing the interior humidity. Additionally, loose or broken shingles are more vulnerable to blowing winds, creating a domino effect of damage.
Sagging Trusses
If there is a noticeable dip along the surface of your roof, it is a definite sign that the trusses beneath are either old or damaged and no longer able to support the roofing properly. Left alone, the whole roof will eventually cave in. This type of roof replacement will add a great deal of value compared to how it would appraise with the old roof. This type of roof damage is fairly rare, however, and typically develops over decades.
Soffits and Fascia Boards
The bottom end of your trusses is capped with what is called a fascia board. This board creates a seal that prevents water from getting to the more porous truss ends. A soffit is the thin sheeting material used to box in the eaves. If you have a roof leak, both of these items are vulnerable to rot and may lead to extensive wall damage as well.
Storm DamagesIn heavy storms, debris can be blown long distances. Even if you do not have any trees near your home, branches can be blown onto it. In the most severe storms, all sorts of airborne debris could potentially cause damage. Similarly, leaves and twigs that accumulate in valleys and gutters encourage wood, metal, and asphalt to deteriorate more quickly.
Build Property Value
Go for a leisurely drive and take note of the condition of the roofs on houses as you go. It is easy to see when a roof is in need of repair or replacement. Because a roof is highly visible, it will quickly degrade the home value if it is not well-maintained. Conversely, putting a new roof on a house that needs one will improve the perceived property value of itself and the homes in its immediate vicinity.
Home repair and renovation have to be done now and then. If you are lucky enough to avoid damages caused by heavy storms, the materials themselves will eventually decay. If you have been putting off getting repairs to your roof, consider that a leak can cause a lot of interior damage, including walls, ceilings, and floors. The longer roof repair is delayed, the greater the cost of interior repairs will be.
Installing New Roofing and Exteriors is Like Investing in Your Home
New roofing and exteriors will transform your home. Whether you try out a new roofing material or a different type of siding, you may be surprised how much of a positive difference the change will be. And since the roof and siding form the outer protective shell of your home, renovations are an investment in your home as well.
Replace Aging Siding
Age is a leading cause of deteriorating roofing and exteriors. As siding ages, it begins to lose its luster, starts to decay around the edges, and often pulls the fasteners loose because of years of winds subtly prying the siding away from the home. These minor damages can be corrected with regular maintenance for several years, but eventually the movement of one item against another will wear down the siding and replacement will be the final solution.
3 Great Siding Options
Home siding comes in many different materials and styles. Each one has its own set of advantages and disadvantages in relation to longevity, energy conservation, and cost, among other factors. Here are 3 popular siding materials, and why they are at the top of the list.
T-111 Siding - Perhaps the most economical siding material, this wood siding comes in sheets that are applied vertically. It can last for up to 20 years but requires periodic maintenance, including painting every few years.
Fiber Composite - Sometimes referred to by its most-familiar commercial name Hardee Board, this siding may be applied in sheets or planks. Because it is a composite covering, it has a longevity of around 30 years and provides exceptional insulation when compared to other sidings. The downside is that this long-lasting home exterior is relatively expensive to install.
Vinyl Siding - Vinyl siding is low-cost and durable, offering up to 30 years of exterior protection. Vinyl is available in many colors, allowing it to be matched with your roofing color without painting.
How a Roof Affects Value
As the upper covering of your home, the roof plays a big part in maintaining your property value. Roof materials include asphalt shingles, metal, and clay tile, to name only a few. As with siding, the material you select will determine the longevity of the roof, the amount of maintenance it requires, and more. In general, metal and tile are the longest-lasting materials, with asphalt being the shortest, at around 20-30 years.
Renovation is a Great Investment
Putting money back into your home is a great way to invest in the future. Remodeling adds equity to the home, reduces energy consumption, and reinforces the protection that the home provides for its occupants. As for the investment, research shows that installing a new asphalt roof -- the least expensive option-- will increase the home value by around 68 percent of the installation cost. The remaining cost is recouped over time through reductions in energy use, maintenance, and repeated repairs.
You can completely re-cover the exterior of your home in about a week with professional roof replacement services. And the work isn't just for beautification or investment. A lot of a home's energy loss is through the siding and roof, so the replacement will even pay for itself over the years, further increasing the financial benefits of investing in renovation.
Roof Repair or Replacement: How to Make the Best Decision
No matter what type of roof you have the chances are high that you will need to have roof repair or replacement at some point during your home ownership. The main question is whether you should get a full replacement, or if a few repairs will keep the roof in good working order for years to come. To help with that decision, here are some helpful tips to consider.
Age of Roof
Most roofs are warranted for around 20 years, and all roofing materials will require roof repair or replacement eventually. Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roof, but the shingles are prone to breakage and decay as they age. As a general rule, older roofs should be closely inspected before scheduling roof repair because replacement may save you money in the long run if your roof is seriously deteriorating.
Extent of Damage
Replacing a few shingles or tiles on your roof is an affordable solution if the damage is minor. If the damage is more extensive or the roof is failing in more than one location, roof replacement will be the most affordable option. Additionally, replacing the entire roof when multiple repairs are needed will prevent your roof from taking on a patchy appearance related to new shingles being installed in proximity to older, more faded roof material.
Type of Roof
Some types of roof are easier to repair than others, and even if your roofing material is in great shape, small leaks penetrating beneath the roofing can cause the underlying support structure to decay. One example is a roof comprised of metal sheets. Once a fastener works loose, water will begin to accumulate beneath the sheet in an area that is a perfect breeding ground for mold and decay. The outer metal sheet may appear to be in good condition, but over time the roof will sag and eventually collapse.
Something Different
There are more than a dozen types of roofing material available. If your existing roof is showing signs of age and wear, why not take a look at the options available on today's roofing market and install a new roof that gives your home a completely different look. Tiles, shingles, and metal roofing are all available in a wide variety of colors and styles, and some types of material-- metal and tiles for example-- can be manufactured to resemble other roof types.
New Construction
New construction of a garage, cottage or other structure on the property is an excellent time to replace the roof on your house as well. Replacing your roof in conjunction with roofing other buildings allows you to match the materials, colors, and designs across all of the structures on your property, creating a pleasant and vibrantly homogenous view of the property.
In general, roof repair is appropriate for buildings with minimal roof damage. Even older buildings can get by with repair if a majority of the roof and support structure are in good condition. If you are having a difficult time choosing the best course of action, scheduling an appointment with roofing contractors can give you a clear idea of the options available and a ballpark figure for the costs involved.
Revitalize Your Home in 2023 With New Roofing and Exteriors
A home is one of the largest investments the average person makes, and taking care of the roofing and exteriors will extend the life of your home by many years. If you have been putting off some necessary home maintenance for a while, this could be the right time to revitalize your home with a brand new look. From conserving energy to boosting the resale value, exterior renovations have a lot to offer.
Reduce Energy Loss
A home's roofing and exteriors play a major role in protecting the residents from rain and variations in temperature. As the home ages, shingles break, siding decays, and it becomes more and more expensive to keep the home interior at a comfortable temperature.
Improve Curb Appeal
Your roof and siding are the first thing every visitor sees, and the lawn and exterior are always there for people passing by. If you plan on putting the property on the market in a few years, roofing and exteriors are a certain way to draw people's attention to the house in a positive way.
An Exterior Makeover
A majority of houses will always look the same as the day they were built, but that doesn't have to be the case. Replacing your roof and siding at the same time allows you to customize the appearance of your home as a unit. There are enough options available for you to redesign your home to look exactly the way you've always wanted, including mimicking traditional architectural styles such as Victorian.
Roofing Options
It might surprise you to discover how many types and styles of roofing materials are available for residential properties. From sheeting to ceramic tiles, you can choose between many popular colors and designs. There are quite a few roofing materials worth considering, each with benefits like durability, longevity, and cost efficiency. A few popular types include:
Asphalt Shingles
Cedar Shake Shingles
Metal Roofing
Ceramic Tiles
Siding Options
Just as you can choose from an assortment of colors and designs for your roof, exterior siding allows you to select the features that suit you best. Wood has always been a favorite, and is available in sheets, planks, and tiles. Vinyl siding is available in many colors, and can be applied as planks, sheets, or tiles. If durability is your primary goal, fiber composite planks come in many colors, and are rot and insect resistant, along with providing an exceptional seal against the elements.
Replacing your roofing and siding at the same time protects everything inside for 20 years or more, often with little or no annual maintenance. Modern materials are more insect resistant and fire retardant than they were a couple of decades ago, and that means your home will be better able to face the challenges of the future.
3 Pros and Cons Regarding Roof Repair or Replacement
If you are trying to decide between roof repair or replacement, it is a good idea to weigh the pros and cons before settling on the direction you want to take. If your roof only needs minor repairs, fixing only what is broken can save you time and money, but putting off replacing a roof in bad shape could lead to other damages to the home.
Advantages of Roof Replacement
Home Value
A new roof, unlike roofing repairs, will add a great deal of value to the home. If you are considering selling the home in the next few years, then the choice between roof repair or replacement should be approached from the long-term potential gain. Simple repairs preserve the home but don't add any significant value at the time of the sale.
2. Curb Appeal
Roof repair will not blend perfectly with the existing roof, even if you use the exact same roofing material and color. Your existing roof has slowly faded with the passage of time, and repaired areas will typically stand out when viewed against the original roof.
3. Peace of Mind
A new roof will last for 20 years or more, giving your family the peace of mind of knowing that the home's interior is well-protected against leaks. In contrast, making localized repairs may stop leaks for the time being, but indicate that your roof is beginning to age and more repairs may be necessary in the near future. It is logical to replace the entire roof at once rather than multiple smaller jobs in a few short years.
Disadvantages of Roof Replacement
Cost
Full-roof replacement can be very expensive, especially if you choose to go with certain types of roof material such as ceramic tile. Luckily, as long as the roof beneath those tiles is still in good condition, individual roof tiles are easy to replace and will not require removing more tiles than need to be replaced.
2. Disruption
Putting a new roof on your home will be a disruption for your household for a short time. Keep in mind that a new roof entails tearing off the old one and hauling away the debris, while a tear-off and dry-in can be done relatively quickly, it does add steps to the roofing process. Between the noise of hammers and saws, and delivery lifts or other heavy equipment you should be prepared for some inconvenience.
3. Time
You can have a small area repaired in the course of a single day, but replacing the whole roof-- especially when a tear-off is necessary-- will take a good deal longer. At best, quality roof replacement is going to require 3 to 4 days, but 7 to 10 days is a more realistic estimate. Climatic conditions like rain can delay progress. Even after the roof is dried-in, roofers aren't going to be working on a slippery, wet roof.
If your roof is leaking, missing shingles or the soffits and fascia boards are looking bad, it is important to get roof repair or replacement as soon as possible. If you aren't sure which route is best for you, your roofing contractors can offer a wealth of advice, including offering you some excellent options for roofing materials that are appropriate for your home and region.
5 Examples of How Roofing and Exteriors Protect Home Value
The best way to think of your roofing and exteriors is to consider them together as a hard shell that shields the home's interior from weather, rodents, wildlife, and more. That shell was carefully constructed to fill the purpose, but a lot of things can happen over the years that make it more vulnerable. From seismic movements to a warmer climate, the exterior of a house needs to be repaired or replaced to keep it viable for decades to come.
Reduce Maintenance Costs
Time is the enemy of even the best roofing and exteriors. Nails will eventually loosen, pulling loose from the siding or allowing moisture under shingles and other roofing materials. Even factory-colored siding will eventually fade in harsh sunlight, and the soft timber used for fascia boards and soffits will age and decay. The older your roofing and exteriors become, the more they will require maintenance to provide the home with protection against the elements.
2. Curb Appeal
A home with a new roof and siding looks better. This enhances the enjoyment of cookouts and get-togethers, as well as making your home a more noticeable part of the community. Just as we all feel good about getting dressed up for special occasions, you'll also feel great knowing that your home is being viewed in a whole new light.
3. Improve Home Health
Once the seal formed by the siding and roof begins to lose its integrity, the health of your family may be affected. Mold and mildew can take root in moist, dark places such as between the soffit and the roof, in the attic, and inside your walls. This can aggravate breathing problems like asthma and COPD, leading to higher medical bills and more frequent medical care.
4. Home Value
It might surprise you, but putting a roof on your home can add 20 grand or more home value, and new siding offers a similar boost. If you are thinking about selling the home in the next few years, roofing and exteriors will transform your house into a more appealing, more valuable property to invest in.
5. Weather Worthiness
WIld weather is becoming more common in every part of the country and houses depend on their roofs and exterior to hold the forces of nature at bay. Old siding can be raked off in heavy winds, rain can find small cracks to penetrate the home's walls and attic, and burning sunshine can weaken asphalt roofing. Your home is your protection from storms, and it needs an exterior in good condition to work the way it should.
Even a home built with the best workmanship and materials on the market will eventually need fresh attention. For older homes that are already aging, it is vital to protect everything under the roof as well as you can to keep it in great shape for years to come. And while you are refinishing the outside of the home, you may want to consider adding an extension or building out your garage to accommodate a growing family.
Is It Better to Use One Company for Both Roofing and Exteriors?
In most construction scenarios, the job site can easily become cluttered with materials for both roofing and exteriors, equipment belonging to different companies, and limited access to the building. A better idea is for one qualified contractor to handle both parts of the project, effectively halving the number of people roaming around the property and eliminating some of the bottlenecks that occur when multiple companies are working on different aspects of the same job.
Project Management
For the property owner, replacing the roofing and exteriors at the same time makes it easier to manage the renovation project. Since the roof and exterior siding work together to form a shell around the building, taking care of both projects at once simplifies the project, allowing the contractors to move seamlessly from one part of the project to the other.
Efficiency
Just as doing the roofing and exteriors at once is a boon to project management, it is also an efficient way to manage time and employee assignments. And when the same home contractors are working on both segments of the project, the workers have a working knowledge of what is being done and where they should focus each day's progress to get the most productivity.
Security
When only one contractor is working on the property, everything is more secure. You will become familiar with the faces working on the project, and that means there is less opportunity for unsavory outsiders to case the property or decide to liberate equipment for their own.
Quality
When your work is performed by a qualified contractor who can do the roofing and exteriors jointly, it is easier to maintain the desired level of quality control. Similarly, if something goes wrong, such as someone accidentally backing into the mailbox, there is no question about liability. And, with fewer workers on the job site, there is more room for everyone to move about, position equipment, and concentrate more fully on the task at hand instead of waiting on a chance to get started.
Economy
Replacing the roof and siding as a single project is generally a lot less expensive than splitting the job into two projects. Combining them doesn't reduce the workload, but it may simplify the permitting process and you will definitely be able to negotiate a lower overall project cost by negotiating with a single contractor rather than two of them.
Protection
When the project begins, it is always a good idea to take care of the roofing before the exterior siding. The rationale is simple on this count: If the roof is installed first, you won't have to worry about the siding getting damaged when workers are on the roof. Likewise, it is more logical to work in a top-down fashion so that all workers are safe from falling debris or dropped tools.
There are situations when the roofing or siding needs to be addressed individually, such as times when getting a roof and siding installed is time-sensitive or needs to meet different job goals that aren't possible with a single contractor. For most cases, however, the benefits of using a single home renovator outweigh any advantages of doing the jobs separately.
Should a 20 Year Old Tile Roof Get Repair or Replacement?
Roofing tiles have a lot to offer the property owner, including being eco-friendly, impressively durable, and capable of going for decades without requiring significant roof repair or replacement. The important thing to remember about a tile roof is that repairs should be made as soon as the damage is detected because a breach in that tough outer shell leaves the building vulnerable to wind, rain, and pest infestation.
Analyze the Damage
Depending on the type and amount of damage, the decision between roof repair or replacement may go either way. If there are a lot of broken or missing tiles, replacement is generally the best option. If only a few tiles are damaged you can probably just get the area repaired. A nice trait of tile roofing is that replacing a few tiles is a relatively simple task because each tile is fastened individually. You should also take a close look at the soffits and fascia boards to determine whether the roof needs more extensive repairs.
Flashing and Roof Repair
Flashing around chimneys, vent pipes, or other places will lead to more serious damage if it is not repaired promptly. Missing flashing or sections that have become separated in places allow moisture to get beneath the tile causing the wooden portion of the roof to start decaying. If the flashing is the only issue and the roof is still secure, qualified roofers can make the repairs economically.
Underlayment and Porous Tile
Roofing tile is porous. It does a great job of channeling water off the roof and provides excellent protection against ultraviolet light and wind, but the underlayment is the primary moisture barrier. Unfortunately, when tile breaks it tends to cause minor punctures or scapes in the underlayment, allowing moisture to penetrate the outer roof. This leads to decayed decking, rotten rafters, and more. If the leak is severe enough, a small hole in the underlayment has the potential to cause many thousands of dollars in damage to the ceilings and walls of the building. Since roof tile can be removed and reattached, it is possible to have the underlayment repaired, and the process is affordable when compared to having to purchase new roofing tile as well.
Underneath It All
A tile roof has more repair options than-- for example-- an asphalt tiled roof. Small sections can be repaired without causing damage to the surrounding areas, roofers are able to access the flashing more easily, and you can reuse tiles that are not damaged when the repaired area is re-tiled. Very few roofing materials can compare to tile when it comes to durability and ease of repair, and regular maintenance will make the roof last as long as the building itself.
For a tile roof, 20 years is only about a quarter of the expected longevity. Unless something causes major damage suddenly, it is possible to keep the roof in great shape for up to 75 or 80 years, and even keeping the same roof for a century or more is a realistic goal.
5 Critical Indications That You Need Roof Repair or Replacement
Roof repair or replacement can be costly, and homeowners are often inclined to put off reroofing the home as long as they can. The problem with that philosophy is that your roof and home are going to continue to deteriorate until the damages have been repaired, and delaying the inevitable will only cost more money in the long run. These 5 signs are clear signals that you need to schedule a roofing contractor as soon as possible.
1. Sagging Roof
Roofing relies on strict scientific formulas that dictate how much weight can be supported and what stresses are acceptable. When your roof is beginning to fail, that science breaks down, and roof repair or replacement is imminent. One of the most obvious symptoms of a failing roof happens when parts of the roof surface begin to sag-- a certain sign that the trusses and their fasteners are losing their integrity.
2. Ceiling Stains
If you begin noticing brownish stains on your ceilings, the most likely cause of the problem is a roof leak that needs immediate attention. There are other problems that can cause ceiling stains, including a room that is not properly ventilated and leaking plumbing. But a stain appearing on the ceiling closest to the roof is typically a sign of roof issues rather than plumbing problems.
3. Missing or Loose Shingles
Every shingle that curls away from the roof surface or becomes dislodged is a potential home disaster in the making. Missing or broken shingles are fairly common on older roofs with asphalt shingles that are nearing the end of their expected longevity. In some cases, you may be able to have the damaged area repaired, but the odds are good that other shingles will be failing soon, and complete roof replacement is more economical.
4. Decaying Fascia or Soffit
The fascia board is the piece of lumber that covers the end of your trusses, and the soffit is the sheet of wood that covers the underside of your eaves. If either of these areas shows signs of water leakage, rodent gnawing, or termite damage, it is a good idea to have the roof inspected right away.
5. Shingles are Granulating
If you are noticing what appears to be large grains of sand in your gutter spouts, your shingles are beginning to show signs of wear and tear. Asphalt shingles are susceptible to widely fluctuating temperatures, heavy rains, and high winds. the small particles on the surface of shingles will lose their cohesion a little at a time and will be washed away with the next rain. Unfortunately, the underlying cause is one or more shingles that need to be replaced, and granules today could be a major leak soon.
Professionally installed roofing is warranted for 20 years or more. If your roof is younger than 20, roof repair or replacement may be covered by the existing roof warranty. Before you schedule a roofer, check your home's paperwork to determine whether you should be calling the manufacturer rather than a contractor.
4 Reasons to Consider Exterior Remodeling During a Roofing Project
By the time your roof needs repair, it is likely that other parts of the home exterior need attention as well. Roofing and exteriors work together to form a complete outer shell for the home, and any part of the shell that becomes damaged is likely to cause other areas to begin to decay. Before you sign a contract for the roofing work, inspect some other areas to determine whether the home exterior needs some love while the work is being done.
Weathered or Damaged Siding
There are a lot of symptoms that you need to repair the roofing and exteriors. Common problems with home siding include nails that have partially pulled out the studs, rotten corners, joints that have pulled apart, and damages such as noticeable holes, missing trim, etc.
Decayed Soffits and Fascia Boards
The end of your roof trusses are vulnerable to insects and decay. To protect them, an endcap called a fascia board is attached to the ends of the trusses, and the eaves are sealed using plywood, Hardie board, or vinyl sheeting, called a soffit. It is common for the fascia boards and soffits to begin to decay after a roof leak has occurred. This is especially true of the soffit, which can literally hold water between the soffit and the truss because there is no outlet for the fluid to escape.
Planned Home Sale
Anything you do to beautify or repair the home prior to putting it on the market will have a positive effect on the home's value. A new roof adds a respectable amount of value, and replacing the siding at the same time gives the house a complete facelift that makes it more noticeable to passers-by. Making your roof replacement a home remodel is a great way to get more for the house and sell it faster. Installing skylights or rainwater reclamation systems to the home at this time can be especially appealing to environmentally-conscious buyers and may reap more than the actual cost of installation.
Rodent or Insect Infestations
If your home is being attacked by rodents and insects, there are probably signs of the intrusion around the lower portion of your home's siding. Look for small piles of debris that resemble wood dust on the ground below the siding. Carpenter bees will make small round holes that they use to get into the walls, and rodents like rats and mice will make similar but larger holes. While you are inspecting for rodents, be aware of any holes you find near the foundation. These holes typically indicate that you have burrowing pests such as gophers, armadillos, rabbits, or gopher tortoises. These creatures do not directly attack the home, but their tunnels can wreck the foundation, leading to major repairs of floors and walls.
Replacing the home roofing and exteriors at the same time makes good economic sense, but it also makes good practical sense in the bargain. Having a home contractor working on both projects at once can get the work done sooner and result in less inconvenience for your family.