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Things to Know When Replacing Residential Roofing

You may need to deal with residential roofing replacement if your roof is old. Once it’s reached the end of its value it may no longer provide adequate coverage. You may not have a choice as you find it necessary to replace it. Sometimes easy repairs can carry you through a little longer. But there may come a time you need to spend money and replace it.

First off, you’ll want to gather estimates. Check out several companies. You’ll want licensed professionals with great reputations. Roofing estimates can vary widely on what’s quoted to you. Don’t sign off on anything until you’ve had a chance to consider the top three estimates.

The estimate details the nature of the work to be done.  They’ll also provide a timeline for completion and a schedule of payment.  Keep this estimate in your files for future reference.

Next is the size and slope of your roof. If your roof is steep, it’ll cost more. You’ll also pay more for a new roof on a two story home. It’s also easier to replace a single story home’s roof since it’s closer to the ground. Materials can be more expensive when they need to withstand the weather conditions where you live.

Then consider the types of residential roofing materials.  The material you choose has a major effect on the cost of your roof replacement. You can choose asphalt shingles. These are the most common and lots of contractors work with this material. There are wood shake roofs, tiles, slate and other options.  Decide what you want to spend since the materials used have different price points and skill sets needed for installation.

Get Residential Roofing Contractors References

Now it’s time to choose a contractor.  Check reviews, ask for references and request to see work they’ve completed on local homes.  Ask questions and find out the cost of stripping and tossing the old shingles. An estimate includes the cost of removal and disposal of the old roofing material. If not, ask so you’re not surprised later.

Once work has started the roof can take a few days to two weeks to tear down and re-roof.  It could take longer if damage exists below the roofing materials.  You should know if damage exists from the contractor’s evaluation of your roof.  This would also be listed in the estimate.  Roofing projects can be messy and the area around you can have debris all about.  Lots of old roofing materials get tossed onto the ground or into a dump truck.  Whether it gets thrown or tossed all materials should be removed so nothing is left behind for you to handle.

Roof replacement is a big project.  Do your homework to choose the best contractor for you.  And, don’t plan on paying before all work gets done.  A contractor’s professionalism is important as is their willingness to answer post-installation questions as needed.

If residential roofing frustrates you, we can help. Call us at (978) 977-3816 or visit us on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NorthShoreRoofingMA.