Need A New Roof? See What Will Cost You

No matter the situation, there’s not a single person on this planet who wants to pay more than they need to, but especially when it comes to costly home improvements — like replacing a roof. While you can get an estimate of what a new roof will cost you, it’s important to understand the factors that influence the cost.

When It’s Time to Replace Your Roof

Before going over these factors, do you know when your roof may be showing signs of distress?

Here are some quick and easy ways to identify potential problems with your roof:

• Curled shingle edges
• Cracked shingles
• Bald spots
• Appearance of dark streaks
• Water in the attic

In addition to the above signs, if your roof hasn’t been replaced in 20 years, it’s generally a good rule of thumb to look into replacement.

Now that you know what to keep an eye out for when it comes to your roof, you should familiarize yourself with the top five factors that affect the cost of a new roof.

Top Factors That Affect the Cost of a New Roof

As you begin the process of looking into roof replacement, here are the variables that will likely have the biggest influence over your bill.

1. Roof Accessibility

Over 50% of the cost of your roof replacement will come from labor.

If your home is in an awkward location or hard-to-reach space nestled between neighboring homes, it will make the job more difficult. Requiring more time, more equipment, and likely more crew members. Trees and other obstacles may also obstruct the path to your roof.

2. Pitch

The angle of your roof can have a huge impact on the roofers’ ability to do their job. If it is very steep, then you may incur extra costs for safety equipment as well as the time needed to perform this special job.

3. Removal of Existing Roof

Some contractors don’t include the cost of a tear off in their estimate.

But depending on your roof type, the shape of the existing layer, or the need to change types of material, a complete removal may be necessary. This will add time and labor costs, but the outcome is worth it!

4. Peaks and Valleys

Wherever there is a spot where two planes join, like a skylight, chimney, etc., it requires special attention.

More time and materials are necessary to preserve this area, as they are more prone to leaks. Of course, it’s always best to ensure the job is done well and correctly the first time around to save you from trouble down the road.

5. Roof Size

This should come as no surprise: the bigger the roof, the more materials needed.

Most roofing materials are sold by roofing square and not square foot. To find your square measurement, your roofer will take a careful measurement based on square footage and divide by 100 to get the roofing square.

Our intention with this article was not to scare you away from roof maintenance or replacement, but rather give you all the information so that you can make important decisions about your home with all of the pertinent facts.

It never hurts to learn more about your house. And since we are talking about the roof, here is some pertinent info on the thing next to it: your gutters!

If you’re concerned your roof, or home in general, is showing signs of wear and tear, don’t hesitate to call in the pros! One of our team members will give your property a look and put your mind at ease.