3 Things To Know About Getting A New Roof

If the roof on your house was new when you moved in, you may be dealing with a roof replacement for the first time. Getting a new roof can be a big undertaking, and you'll have a lot of decisions to make, especially if you want to change the color of your roof or switch roofing materials. Here are three things to know about getting a new roof.

1. A Permit And Inspection May Be Required

The roofing contractor you work with can explain the permit and inspection process, and they may even obtain the permit for you and add the cost to your quote for a new roof. If your city is slow at issuing permits, you'll want to factor that into the timeline for having your roof put on.

When the roof is complete, the codes office will probably inspect the work to make sure it's up to code. Following building codes is standard procedure for a roofing contractor, and having the inspection gives you peace of mind the work was done right.

2. You Have Options In Roofing Materials

There are several choices in roofing materials, even if you know you want to stay with asphalt shingles. You can choose the color of the roof as well as the quality of the shingles. You may want to switch to a metal tile roof for added longevity. When you study different roof options, compare cost, longevity, durability, quality, appearance, and maintenance needs.

You might also want to think about your local environment and climate when choosing your new roof. If brush fires are common, you might want a metal roof or Class A asphalt shingles. If your house is engulfed in shade all day, you may want asphalt shingles that are treated to inhibit the growth of algae.

Another thing to consider is the weight of different types of roofing. If your current roof has a single layer of asphalt shingles, you may be able to put a new roof on top of them. But you'll need a lightweight option, such as metal or asphalt shingles. Clay, concrete, and slate roofing are heavy, so your roofer needs to make sure your roof can support the weight of the tiles before installing a heavy roof.

3. Weather Conditions Affect Roofing Work

You can have a new roof put on any season of the year, but the best times are in the spring and fall when the temperatures are milder. Asphalt shingles have to be applied in a certain temperature range, so your roofer can't work during brutally cold weather.

However, you could have a roof put on during a mild stretch of weather in the winter so that you don't put off having the work done. The roofer can't work in rain or extremely cold weather, and if it's not possible to replace a leaky roof in a timely manner, you can always have a roof tarp put on for temporary protection.

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