A roof is one of the most important structural components of any home. It protects the interior of your house from the elements, helps maintain a comfortable temperature year-round and adds curb appeal. If your roof is showing signs of wear, it may be time to consider a replacement service. Residential roofing contractors specialize in installing new roofs and repairing existing ones. Their services include evaluating a roof’s condition, repairing leaks and replacing damaged or missing shingles. These professionals also install and repair gutters and downspouts.
There are many factors that determine whether a roof needs to be replaced or repaired, and the contractor you choose to perform the work will help you make the decision. The age of the roof is an important factor, as well as the frequency of repairs and the amount of damage. Often, it will be more cost-effective to replace an old or damaged roof than it would be to keep repairing it.
The geographic location of the home is another significant factor that impacts costs. Roofing materials can vary in price considerably from region to region, and labor rates can also vary. Other factors that can increase the cost of a roof replacement include the presence of dormer windows, skylights and chimneys, which require special flashing and are usually made from more expensive materials than the rest of the roof. The size of the roof also plays a role in the price, as do its shape and slope.
If you have enough equity in your home, you can use a home-equity loan to pay for the cost of a roof replacement. If not, you can still get a new roof through financing options offered by your contractor. In addition, your homeowner’s insurance policy may cover the cost of a new roof if it is the result of storm damage or if the original roof was over 20 years old.
Before a roof replacement, you’ll need to prepare the area for construction. This includes removing any items from the yard that could be hit by falling debris and moving outdoor furniture, ceramic landscaping features and other objects to avoid any potential damage. It’s also a good idea to trim back tree branches and remove any plants that are encroaching on the roof.
Roofing contractors typically charge between $2 and $7 per square foot for roof replacement services, although the high end of this range accounts for more complicated jobs that involve steep roofs, hard-to-access areas and specialty features. The majority of the costs for this service go toward labor, but you’ll also need to budget for hauling and disposal charges and local landfill fees.
Aside from a new roof, other home improvement projects that might be in the works are painting your house or installing new windows and doors. While these projects can be costly, they can add value to your home and improve its appearance. You can also use these projects to boost your property’s resale value and attract buyers.
