A new roof is not an expense anyone wants to be surprised with. While inclement weather can hasten the need for a new roof, often we can plan ahead for a roof installation.
Barring any future natural disasters, homeowners can generally take their time and shop around when seeking a roofing contractor. This helps ensure that a good roofing contractor is found and that homeowners can pick the shingles that are right for them. Shingles have a major impact on how a home looks; choosing a roofing contractor and picking your shingles shouldn’t be a rush job! In this post, we’ll be covering different aspects of planning for a roof. It’s an important decision, so you’ll find plenty of links and information to help ensure you have everything you need to get started on the process.
Do You Need a New Roof?
A loose shingle or two doesn’t mean you need an entirely new roof; however, numerous ripped or broken shingles, bald shingles, or a saggy roof can indicate it’s time to start speaking with a roofing contractor.
We’ve detailed when homeowners should start thinking about roof replacement in this post. If you don’t know how old your roof is, check for shingle damage and granule debris. Extensive shingle damage or bald shingles could signal it’s time to hire a roofing a contractor. If you have an attic, take a look inside to see if you are experiencing any water damage. If there appear to be stains, you may have a leak in your roof.
If you’ve determined that you’re not quite ready for a roof, be sure to bookmark this post so you can bring it up when you need it! Also, take care to properly maintain your roof to ensure it lasts as long as possible! Once you start noticing signs of wear, come on back and start planning for that roof replacement!
Know Your Shingle Options
Homeowners have an amazing amount of options when it comes to roofing shingles. In addition to long-lasting asphalt shingles like the Owens Corning shingles we install, homeowners can have clay or tile shingles, wood shingles, metal shingles, solar shingles, and more. Ultimately, your shingles are an investment in the health of your home. While they add to the stylistic beauty of your home, they also protect it from the elements and help keep you and your family safe.
We’ve given some extensive coverage to shingle types in previous posts. We’ve also shared why we believe asphalt shingles are the best choice.
Costs vary across shingle types.
When you’re considering which type of shingles are the best for your home, you may want to consider:
- The type of elements your shingles will encounter.
- The style and color you want for your home.
- The durability of the shingle types.
- The quality of the warranty that accompanies the shingles and their installation.
- The cost of the various shingles.
Vet All Contractors
Finding the right contractor to install your new roof can take time.
Ultimately, the quality of work you get comes down to who you hire. Make sure you and your contractor are on the same page and that they have all the necessary licenses and insurance before they ever get on a ladder. This protects both you and your contractor. Never hire someone who isn’t willing to share their licenses with you or their proof of insurance!
If you want a specific type of shingle, make sure the roofers you speak with have experience with them.
Get a Couple Roofing Quotes
A quote isn’t a contract, but it helps homeowners understand the general scope of the project and the projected costs. A good quote will provide you with information about labor costs and supplies. At the same time, a quote doesn’t tell you everything about a potential contractor. That’s why it’s so important to ask questions (and to know what type of questions to ask). Too many homeowners get taken in by shady operations.
Select Your Contractor
With your quotes completed and having met a couple of contractors, you’ll be better prepared to pick the right contractor for your roofing needs.
As you compare quotes, remember that cost should not necessarily be the deciding factor. Your roof is an investment in the wellbeing of your home. You want to ensure that you have quality roofing materials and a skilled contractor to install them.
When comparing quotes, consider:
- Highest qualifications
- Timeline for work
- Who will be completing the work (roofing contractor’s crew or subcontractors?)
- Reviews
- Cost estimate
Your decision will likely be based on a variety of factors. There’s no shame in making a pros and cons list if you are having trouble deciding between contractors. And if questions arise during the process, a high-quality roofing contractor will have no problem answering them and putting your qualms to rest.
Finalize the Details & Sign
Once you’ve picked your contractor, you’ll want to finalize the details. This includes setting a date for the job, determining how your old shingles will be disposed, finalizing your choice of shingle, and learning more about who will be completing your roof. Make sure you have a point person that you can be in touch within case you have any questions or concerns. Read over your work contract. If there is anything you don’t understand, say something! A good roofing contractor will have no problem explaining the contract to you and ensuring that everything is to your satisfaction.
