Roof replacement is a significant investment for homeowners. But a quality roof can protect the rest of the house, save money on energy costs, and add value.
The geographic location affects the materials and labor needed to repair or replace a roof, but there are other factors that homeowners can control. The type of shingles, the height, and pitch of the roof, features like chimneys and skylights, and the size of the home all influence the cost. Learn more by clicking here.
Materials
The material used in the roof has a huge impact on the overall cost. Basic three-tab asphalt shingles are the least expensive roofing materials, but they’re also thin and susceptible to wind damage. Laminated Owens Corning shingles offer more durability and are rated to withstand up to 130 mph winds.
The size of the home, roof pitch, and the removal of existing roofing materials can add to the total cost. The pitch is important because it determines which structures the contractor needs to install under the shingles, and that affects the labor costs.
Skylights, dormer windows, and chimneys all require special flashing and cutting. These additional features also increase the roof replacement cost, primarily because of the extra labor involved. Lastly, homeowners should factor in any city or HOA permit fees that may be required for the project. These costs can range from $100 to $500 depending on the local regulations.
Labor
A roof replacement isn’t a project that many homeowners look forward to, but if the existing roof is damaged or at the end of its life, it’s a necessary home improvement. A complete roof replacement requires removing the old shingles, making any required structural repairs, and then installing new shingle material.
The amount of labor needed to complete the job depends on a variety of factors, including roof size and pitch. Steeper roof pitches require more materials, painstaking labor, and possibly special equipment to work on safely. The number and location of chimneys, skylights, and HVAC vent stacks can also add to the cost of a replacement.
The cost of a new roof will include the price of shingles, underlayment, flashing, and any other required components. It’s important for homeowners to consider a full roof replacement to prevent water leaks and structural damage. A new roof will also protect the rest of a home’s structure and increase its resale value.
Permits
A permit is generally required for any remodeling or construction project that changes the exterior of a house. This helps ensure all work is done to state and local standards, making the home more durable.
Reroofing a house may require a permit because the new roof is often much heavier than the existing structure was designed for. This is also a safety concern. If the roof is too heavy, it could cause damage to other parts of the home.
If a homeowner replaces their roof without a permit, their insurance company might not cover any damage to the house. In addition, any warranty on the roof will likely be invalid and not transferable to a future buyer of the property.
Checking with your local building department is the best way to determine if a permit is required for your roof replacement. In most cases, your roofing contractor will take care of all the permit paperwork and inspections for you.
Insurance
The cost of roof repair is often covered by insurance, especially if the damage was caused by a severe weather event like a tornado or hurricane. However, homeowners should always check their policy to see what the exact coverage is. They also should be aware of the deductible and how it impacts their claims.
It’s best to find a policy that covers replacement cost value (RCV). This is when the insurance company gives you enough money, minus your deductible, to replace your roof with a new one. This option will allow you to get a better-quality roof, which may improve your home’s overall performance for decades.
However, it’s also important to remember that any claim you make will impact the rest of your policies. Having multiple claims on your record can raise your premiums for years to come. This is why some people decide to supplement their insurance and pay for a portion of their repairs themselves. Next article.