FAQs About Getting a New Roof
Spring is approaching, and once again, the weather will be nice enough for home exterior renovations. If you’ve considered purchasing a new roof in the next few months, you may have some commonly asked questions circling in your head. Well, you’ve come to the right place! New Look Roof has collected some of our most frequently asked questions about new roofs with direct and easy to understand answers.
When do I need to replace my roof?
Even though replacing your roof is quite an investment, it is something you should not put off if you start noticing the warning signs. Ignoring the need for a new roof can cause eventual damage that will cost significantly more than simply replacing the roof on time.
That being said, here are a few warning signs to look for:
Wet spots on your ceiling or in the attic
Shingles are missing, curling, cracked, buckled, or broken
Shingle granules in the gutters
Visible roof sagging
Noticeable signs of roof rot, such as a squishy, spongy feeling when walking on it
You should also consider roof replacement if your home’s roof is over 20 years old. Try to obtain your home’s maintenance records from before you moved in if you’re not sure when the roof was last replaced.
What are my options if I decide to reroof?
You can either replace your roof entirely–which requires the complete removal of your current roof and replacement of all its parts–or you can cover your existing roof system with a new one.
A full replacement of your roof can be costly, time-consuming, and quite invasive. It requires a ‘tear-off’ of your existing roof and an entirely new roof to be constructed. Consult with a local roofer to get an accurate price quote and look at shingles and different warranties.
A re-cover of your roof is by far the most cost-effective and time-efficient option. However, many building codes do not allow for multiple re-roofs, so if you’ve already done this, you may be out of luck. Talk with local roofing professionals to learn more about your state’s building codes and options.
How long does a new roof last?
The widely recognized industry standard for a roof’s lifetime is 20 years. A new roof’s life span is determined by a few different factors, such as system design, structure, material quality, installation technique, frequency of maintenance, climate, and more.
Will replacing my roof lower my energy costs?
If your roof is older and failing to perform its duties, replacing your roof can absolutely lower your current electric bill.
It is normal for your attic to be closer to the outside temperature, but if it is getting much too hot in the summer, this is a telltale sign of inadequate ventilation. This overheating can cause your HVAC system to have to work much harder to keep your home cool, using significantly more energy than necessary.
It is the same in the winter. If your attic is unbearably cold in January, this is a sign that your roof is underperforming as well. This can cause your heater to have to work doubly hard to warm your home, which also drives up that electric bill.
A new roof prevents that overheating and prevents drafts as well, allowing your air conditioner and heater to work at their intended levels and prevents excess energy usage.
How much does a new roof cost?
The total cost of roof replacement depends on various factors, including the size of the roof, materials used, market costs, and the contractor you hire. It is best to contact a roofing company (or several) and ask for their price quotes before making your decision.
That said, the average roof replacement cost is around $6,500.
If you’re in Louisville and you’re considering getting a new roof, look no further than New Look Roof. Our professional staff members are ready to get you your free project quote! Simply call us at (502) 341-4415 today to schedule an appointment.