What Should Be Included in a Roof Replacement?
When replacing a roof, check to see if you have all the components that form a complete system. These components include:
- Decking, which is the group of wooden boards your shingles are nailed to
- Underlayment, a weather-proof barrier that protects your home from moisture
- Flashing, which is the metal around chimneys or vents that prevents water from entering your home
- Drip edge, which helps control the flow of water and prevents your underlying roof components
- Roof vents, to create proper air floor and reduce excess moisture levels in your attic
- Ice and water shield, which helps prevent damage from ice dams and wind-driven rain
You should also replace any damaged or missing shingles and set up repairs for any cracked mortar around chimneys or other protruding elements.
Roof replacement doesn’t have to be a complicated process. See how the experts at Elevated Contracting get the job done.
Ten Things You Can Do Ahead of Your Roof Replacement
To ensure that you have the best possible experience, it pays to do some preparatory work beforehand. Here are ten steps you should take before beginning your roof replacement:
1. Get Several Estimates From Various Contractors
Don’t just settle for one estimate—take the time to get multiple quotes to compare pricing and service quality.
2. Ask Questions About Their Materials and Labor
Make sure that you understand what materials these contractors use and how long the warranty adequately covers their labor service.
3. Research Local Building Codes
Check with your local government for any building permits or regulations related to roof replacements in your area.
4. Obtain References
Ask contractors for references from previous clients who had similar projects done by them so you can gauge their level of satisfaction with the job they did.
5. Discuss Safety Protocols
Ensure your roofing contractor follows all safety protocols related to working on roofs, such as using proper fall protection equipment and harnesses when needed.
6. Schedule a Walk-Through Inspection
Have the roofers inspect your roof so they can accurately assess what needs to be done before repairs begin and what kinds of materials will be used in the process.
7. Check Insurance Coverage
Ensure that their insurance policy covers both property damage and liability in case something goes wrong during the replacement process.
8. Choose a Payment Plan
Decide how you want to pay for the job ahead of time so there won’t be any surprises down the line. Most contractors accept payment through credit cards or cashier’s checks upon work completion (ensure you obtain a receipt).
9. Set Up Temporary Living Arrangements if Needed
Depending on how long repairs may take, setting up accommodations elsewhere while workers are at your home during daytime hours may be wise. Check with contractors about potential noise levels associated with their job and safety precautions they’ll take while onsite, like covering furniture while working overhead.
10. Review Your Contract Thoroughly Before Signing
Make sure all expectations regarding timing, cost, materials used, etc., are included in the contractual agreement. Only sign something once you’re fully satisfied with its terms!
Additionally, you should take other small steps to ensure the roof replacement process goes as smoothly as possible. This includes addressing things that could be problems later, like pruning trees and cutting the grass, moving your patio furniture out of the way, securing your windows, moving your vehicle, and removing wall decorations.
How Much Do Roof Replacements Cost?
On average, homeowners spend between $5,000 and $20,000 on replacing a standard-sized residential roof. However, this number depends on multiple factors, like the type of material your home has, the complexity of the installation, and your location. For example, the roof replacement cost in Northern VA typically starts around $4,500 for an average-sized home.
To put things further into perspective, this standard price range doesn’t even include additional costs associated with labor, which can range anywhere from $1 to $50 per square foot, depending on who does the professional work. Fortunately, many local governments offer incentives such as tax credits or rebates for homeowners who install energy-efficient roofs. If the cost of a roof is a significant concern for you, researching these options ahead of time could save you lots of money.
Picking the Right Contractor for Your Home Roof Replacement
When selecting a roofing contractor, make sure the individual or company meets the following requirements:
- The contractor is licensed in your area.
- They have adequate insurance coverage that protects your property, structure, and all parties involved.
- The person or company has a great track record for exceptional customer service with online reviews and word-of-mouth referrals.
- They offer reasonable pricing and quotes that cater to the client’s specific needs.
And most importantly, you should pick someone trustworthy who understands your unique situation and can provide helpful advice. Finding a great contractor takes a bit longer than simply looking up information online, but thorough research can pay off well in the long run.
Contact Elevated Contracting for Your Next Roof Replacement in Northern Virginia
Hiring an experienced contractor like Elevated Contracting guarantees a high-quality roofing job that’ll be completed efficiently and with care. With our elevated customer service, you can have peace of mind knowing that we’ll keep your most significant concerns (and budget) in mind.
Take advantage of our superior roofing solutions and get your free estimate today.
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