You may have done your due diligence in repairing your existing roof as it was damaged, but there comes a time when you just have to scrap the whole thing and replace it. Luckily, you have access to some of the best roofers in the roofing industry at Legacy Roofing.
If you have an upcoming roofing project, we invite you to check out the following comprehensive guide that will prepare you for the roof replacement process.
Before You Commit to a New Roof
Deciding to commit to a roof replacement is not an easy one. After all, this type of roofing project is not without challenges. From the roofing materials to labor costs, you will have a lot to consider as you prepare to get a new roof installed.
The first few steps of the roof replacement process include finding a roofing company that you trust, one who can assess the condition of your roof, and provide an estimate for a replacement.
Finding the Best Roofing Contractor
Finding a reputable, trustworthy company for the job is a must. They’ll be the ones to help you figure out the best option for your house and budget. Here are some qualities to look for in your roofing contractor:
- Years of experience and expertise in the roofing industry
- A solid reputation and track record in the roofing industry and among customers
- The company is licensed and insured
- They practice transparent and clear communication
- They use quality roofing materials
- Safety is their top priority as they replace the old roof
- They offer a warranty and guarantees with their services
- They offer a free estimate of the services you need
Assessing the Condition of the Existing Roof
Once you have found that Legacy Roofing meets these criteria, we will conduct an assessment to determine if a replacement is truly needed or if you can manage with roof repair.
Signs for a Needed Roof Replacement
- The age of the roof is the first indicator of a needed replacement. Asphalt shingles last 20-25 years while other tile or metal roofs last longer.
- There are visible signs of damage such as missing, cracked, or curling shingles.
- Leaks and water damage after harsh weather conditions
- Sagging or drooping roofline
- Granule loss in asphalt shingles
- Increased energy bills
- Mold or moss growth on the surface of the roof
- Roof decking issues
- Growing frequency of roof repair
- Many neighbors are replacing their roofs or you want to upgrade the curb appeal of your house
The roofing contractor from Legacy Roofing will take into account all of these factors and help formulate a plan that works best for your house.
How to Ensure a Successful Roof Replacement
There is a lot to consider as you prepare your home for a new roof. The key to a safe and lasting roofing project lies in selecting the best materials, the time of year you choose to do the roof replacement, and seeing to the basics such as protecting your stuff, pets, and loved ones.
Selecting the Best Roofing Materials
One thing that your contractor can help guide you through is choosing the roofing materials that work best for your house. The most popular options include the following:
What type of materials you choose often depends on the climate of the area in which you live. Some areas need extra resistance against hail, snow, or, in the case of Arizona, heat. Some roofing materials do better at protecting your house against different elements than others.
Time of Year of the Roofing Project
It is best to be mindful of the season when you begin to suspect that a roof replacement is in order. Fall is the busiest season for roof replacements due to its mild, generally consistent weather. Because it is the busiest season, you may end up with a higher fee for the roofing project than if you were to choose a different season.
Depending on what part of Arizona you’re living in, you could also have a much smoother replacement process during the spring or fall versus the summer or winter. Though they have more harsh weather conditions, the valley’s mild winters and the north’s gentler summers can allow for a positive experience with a roof replacement.
Getting Your House Roof Replacement Ready
Once you’ve decided on the type of roof that you’re installing, you need to get your home ready. Here are a few steps you can take to protect valuables and make the roofers’ jobs as easy as possible.
Move Your Car
To stay out of the way of the neighbors as much as they can, the roofing crew will need to take up your driveway. Make sure you move the car into the street, or somewhere else nearby if your property allows. As long as it’s not in front of the house, you’re in good shape.
If you cannot park it within a reasonable distance of the house, put it in the garage. Not only will the roofers have their vehicles and materials in the driveway, but there will be a fair share of dust and debris flying around. Moving your car down the street or into a closed garage can save it from an extra car wash, or even damage.
Get the Pets Out of the House
Roofing gets loud. People are walking all over the roof, hammering, cutting—it can be stressful for animals. Between the noises and the strangers, your pets are likely going to be very unhappy and might react poorly.
If you have pets, it’s best to get them out of the house. Send them to doggy or kitty daycare, or a family or friend’s house while work is being done.
Shelter All Outside Valuables
Installing a new roof is a construction job. Heavy materials are being moved around, and lots of people are moving around your property.
If you have a potted plant or two that you love, move them somewhere safe. Anything on the exterior of the house that you don’t want to be damaged should be moved into the house or garage while the roof is being replaced. Think of decorations, furniture, and tools. (You don’t want to have to replace those lawn gnomes!)
Don’t Forget About the Interior
Once again, your house is about to undergo a small construction project. The work might knock things off the wall. More valuable and pricey objects either hung up or living on wall shelves should be taken down.
How Long Does it Take to Replace a Roof?
Typically, you only need to clear one 3-4 days out of your schedule for a re-roof. Sometimes, roofs can be replaced in a single day, though that is not recommended to anticipate.
The time required does depend on the size of the house and the extent of the replacement. For example, if the sub-roofing needs to be replaced or the roof has an exceptionally complicated structure, the project may require more time. Worst-case scenario, it will take a few weeks. However, even these more complicated installations usually only last a few days to a week.
Call Legacy Roofing for Your Roofing Replacement
Having a secure and safe home is important. Keeping your roof in good condition can make all the difference in the longevity of the entire house. Don’t wait too long to replace your roof. Once a trusted contractor deems it’s time, it’s best to make it happen sooner rather than later.
Legacy Roofing is a trusted roofing company in Northern Phoenix. We’ll give you honest advice and estimates about replacing your roof.
Try our free roof estimator tool and contact us today to begin!
