A roof replacement is a significant investment. To get the most value out of your money, you need extensive research beginning with the type of roofing material and the contractor you will hire for the project. But before you proceed with finding a contractor and shopping for roofing material, timing is also essential so that you can maximise the life of your existing roofing before you start spending money on a new one
When to replace your roof vs roof repairs
Examining your roof is not as hard as you think. All you need is a good vantage point which will allow you to see the roof at every angle while using a pair of binoculars. What you need to look for are signs of wear and tear such as cracked shingles, broken pieces, and missing sections. Pay attention to lichen and moss growing on the roof which often causes unsightly discoloration. As much as possible, take note of any vegetation and tree branches that are too close to the roof. Aside from checking the roof’s exterior, you also need to examine your ceiling for signs of leaks.
If you only notice small areas that need repair, look for a contractor specializing in roofing in Bradenton FL that can easily take care of replacing broken and cracked shingles. Depending on the type of roof you have on your home, be sure to examine for signs of aging so that you can decide whether or not it is time to have the roof torn down and replaced.
Choosing a new type of roofing
There are several types of roofing to choose from. Roofing material is typically sold by ‘square’ which is a specific measurement equivalent to 100 square meters. The following are some of the most popular roofing materials available today:
- Asphalt shingles. This type of roofing material is the most popular for homes today. Asphalt shingles are inexpensive and durable.
- Wood shingles. Wood shingles are highly priced because they lend a natural and traditional appeal to homes.
- Metal roof. You can buy metal roofing in panels or tiles. Metal roofing is also highly durable, fireproof, and resistant to rotting.
- Clay roof tiles. You’ll typically find clay tiles used in Spanish or mid-western style homes. Clay tiles are heavy, and if you are thinking about replacing your current roof with clay tiles, you’ll need to have an engineer assess your roof structure to ensure it is sound enough to carry the weight of clay tiles.
- Slate is another traditional material which used to be popular. These days, however, it is quite expensive to consider slate unless your budget allows for it.
- Composite shingles made of rubber. Composite shingles are made by combining rubber and plastic. Composite shingles resemble wood and slate and are also quite durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Aside from your budget, choosing the right type of roofing also depends on the overall aesthetic appeal you want to achieve. Think about the value for money as well as the warranty that comes with the product before you decide on which roofing material to select for your home.
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