Can you imagine a house without a roof? While it’s a unique proposition, it’s just not feasible.
The roofing is arguably one of the most important parts of a building. It protects the entire structure from all the elements.
If the roof fails, water can damage your home’s interior – from the ceiling down to your walls and all furniture inside. Likewise, extreme heat and cold can damage the building’s other components. Given its enormous role, keeping your roof in perfect shape is vital.
Amongst home repair projects, roof renovation doesn’t seem glamorous.
It might not automatically upgrade your home’s aesthetic nor add value to it. As such, not many consider it essential. But the truth is that it is an extremely important home renovation project and also adds value to the property.
A failed roof can lead to a disastrous outcome for your home.
The good news is that roofing typically has a long life. Depending on the roofing material, it can last between 10 and 50 years; some can even last longer. Even with its incredible durability and longevity, the roof can still get damaged and require occasional repairs.
In some cases, roof renovation might be the best option.
A roof renovation project is something that you shouldn’t take lightly but it shouldn’t also be delayed. When it comes to renovating your roof, there are several things to consider. Here let’s check out some of the basic things you should know.
Project cost
The average cost of replacing or installing a roof ranges between $5,000 and $10,000.
However, the total project cost can vary greatly depending on many factors, such as the design, extent of the project, type of roofing used, size and height of the roof, coating, and structure complexity.
Generally, the type of roofing material will have the most impact on the overall cost.
While some materials would cost you more, they also tend to have a longer lifespan.
You need to consider the quality of the roofing and the price. Additional costs may also be incurred for adding new features like electricity and lighting, attic window, canopy, solar panel, and others.
Reason to renovate
Given the cost of renovating your roof and the hassle it entails, you need to seriously think about your options. Only consider this project if you believe it is absolutely necessary. Some common reasons to renovate your roofing include:
- an old, discolored roof that cannot be remedied with cleaning and re-painting;
- persistent energy, ventilation, and heating issues due to lack of roofing insulation;
- serious water leakage causing further damage to your interior;
- damaged by a storm, hurricane, and other natural catastrophes; and
- add value to your property.
According to reliable roofing contractors from Chicago, not all old-looking roofs require renovation. Some might have gotten discolored from exposure to the elements; others have grown mold or algae.
While these roofs look decrepit, these are usually minor issues that can be easily restored. Working with a reliable engineer or a contractor can guide you on whether you need renovation or restoration.
Right material
The roofing material is one of the most important considerations. Aside from its aesthetic aspect, the type of material has other functional purposes. You need to consider the price, shape, size, design, and availability.
Likewise, you should check the material’s longevity, durability, and resistance to wear and tear.
Some popular roofing materials include asphalt shingles, wood shingles, tiles, metal roofing, and slate roofing. Among these materials, asphalt shingles are the most common and reasonably priced. It has a lifespan of 15-20 years.
Wood shingles are a more aesthetic and expensive variety but have a longevity of 30 years. Meanwhile, tiles offer a wide range of textures, which is great for aesthetics. It requires professional installation and is costly. This roofing material can last for around 35 years.
Metal roofing is among the most durable materials with a lifespan of over 50 years. It can sustain extreme weather and is generally low-maintenance. The only problem would be its cost. But the most expensive option is the slate roofing.
It can cost around $600 per square meter and requires professional installation. Both water- and fire-proof, slate roofing can last for nearly 70 years. With its rustic style, it can add to the aesthetic appeal of your home.
Roofing contractor
Unlike other home renovation projects, roof replacement is something that you cannot DIY. For the project to be successful, it is best to hire a contractor. Roofing renovation is a complicated project that requires the expertise of engineers and trained roof installers.
As mentioned above, initially, you’ll need to get your roofing checked by a reliable engineer. He can give you insights on whether a repair or renovation is warranted. This should save you from unnecessarily spending on such a major project.
Aside from the project’s complexity, there are also safety hazards, specialized equipment, and building regulations that need to be considered. Roofing contractors see to it that all these are covered.
When looking for a contractor, make sure that the contract is licensed, insured, experienced, and reliable. Check the background and read reviews. Ideally, you need to get several quotes from different contractors. This should give you an idea about the reasonable price.
Preparing for the renovation
Once you’re ready for this major project, you need to prepare the area for the construction. You’ll need to clear up everything that is immediately under the roof. Make sure to pack your furniture, appliances, and other home furnishings.
Keep them away from the construction site. For permanent fixtures that cannot be moved, be sure that they are fully protected from debris. Usually, renovation projects can take 3 to 5 days but this can extend depending on the scale of the work.
It’s also important to consider the proper season for the roof renovation. Ideally, the work should be scheduled in summer and sprint times as there are fewer chances of rain.
All in all, roof renovations are always complicated and costly endeavors.
As much as possible, you want to avoid going through this hassle. While you cannot protect your roofing from damaging winds and other elements, regularly inspecting your roof (at least twice a year) can help you identify potential problems and early signs of damage.
You should immediately implement minor repairs. They’ll help avoid major issues and also cost less.