A roof replacement isn’t a minor project. The roof is an essential part of any home. This surface protects your interior rooms from the elements. It helps with climate control and keeps moisture out of your living space.
Homeowners have several material options when building a new roof. When properly installed, these materials can survive for years. However, they aren’t meant to last forever. Eventually, you will need to make repairs or hire someone to do an entire roof replacement.
Catching problems as soon as possible is the key to avoiding bigger, more expensive repairs. If damage and wear are ignored, leaks can form and water can make its way into your home’s interior. Moisture can quickly damage wood and compromise the integrity of the structure.
EA Homes wants to help all homeowners protect their properties. We offer free estimates as well as same-day emergency services.
What Causes Roof Damage?
Since your roof is always facing the outdoors, it is subject to a lot of abuse. Mother Nature can be hard on exterior surfaces. Some of the most common conditions that can lead to roof damage include:
- Hail storms
- High wind
- Thunderstorms
- Hurricanes
- Extreme heat
- Extreme cold
If your area has experienced any of the above, you should inspect your roof to look for signs of damage. You may be able to perform a visual inspection from the ground level. However, the most thorough way to do it is to hire a professional like EA Homes to check everything out for you.
An expert can get on top of your roof and search for issues in areas you may not be able to see. We always advise homeowners to not climb up on top of their homes. Elevation makes this process very dangerous. An expert will have knowledge of safety practices to protect themselves from a fall.
Other situations can lead to roof damage. If your roof wasn’t properly installed, it can wear out quicker or may develop leaks. Ignoring existing damage can also lead to bigger problems.
Since nothing lasts forever, age can be a factor. The average residential roof will last for 15 to 30 years. However, the length of time is influenced by the type of material used. For example, a metal roof can last for 70 years while asphalt shingles usually survive 10 to 50 years.
How to Know if You Need a Roof Replacement
There are several things to look for if you are thinking about a roof replacement. First, consider the age of your roof. If it is already nearing or past its prime, have an EA Homes professional come out and inspect it. A roof that’s over 20 years old may need to be replaced.
Even if it is not past its estimated lifespan, you may see indications that something is wrong. Common signs that you need a roof replacement include:
- Shingles that aren’t lying flat or are missing
- Bald spots on shingles where granules are missing
- Shingles that appear cracked, damaged, or are curling
- Dark streaks of airborne algae or moss growing on the surface
- Exposed nails that can rust and cause leaks
- Moisture appearing inside the home
- Parts of the roof appear to sag or droop
- Chimney flashing appears damaged
- You can see daylight coming in through roof boards
It may be time for a roof replacement if notice your neighbors having theirs done. Many subdivisions have homes that are close in age. If you see others on your street getting roof replacements, it may be time to find roofing contractors.
What Happens During a Roof Replacement?
Your roofing company should go over the process with you. If you are having plywood replaced, then you should cover your furniture and belongings to protect them from falling debris. This can occur while roofers are nailing materials into place.
Remove anything valuable from the attic and cover other things up. This is the area directly below your roof, so it will get the most falling debris.
You should also move anything outside of your home that might be in range of falling debris. This includes lawn furniture, potted plants, yard decorations, grills, solar panels, children’s toys, and satellite dishes.
It’s also advised to park your car away from the work area to avoid falling debris-related damage.
During the roof replacement, you should keep all children and pets in a safe place. They should not be permitted to run outside under where the roofing contractors are working. Putting them in the quietest room is usually the best way to reduce stress and keep them safe.
The roofing company will work through the following steps:
- Protect your property with plywood and tarps
- Remove old roofing material and inspect wood decking
- Replace all rotted or worn wood to form a solid base
- Install drip edge along the sides of the roof
- Install water and ice shielding
- Apply new roofing materials from the bottom up
- Perform a final roof inspection
Your roofing company should look for missing nails before applying the drip edge. Make sure the contractor you hire will handle this step. If your wood decking isn’t re-nailed, you may see bumps on your roof within weeks of replacement.
How to Get Started on Your Roof Replacement Project
The easiest way to get started on your roof replacement is to talk to residential roofers. This is a major home project and not something you should tackle on your own. Roofing work can be very dangerous. You need someone who is experienced and insured to get the job done correctly and safely.
Contact EA Homes now to request a free estimate for your roof replacement.
