Your Guide To Roof Replacement
If your roof is getting old or starting to look worn, you may be wondering if it's time to replace it. Getting a new roof can be an exciting investment because it can protect your home and boost curb appeal.
If you would like to know more about residential roof replacement, keep reading.
When Should You Replace Your Roof?
When it comes to roof replacement, age and condition play a huge role. The older the roof, the more worn it likely is. Even with good maintenance, roofs only last so long. On average, an asphalt shingle roof last about 15 to 30 years. The exact lifespan depends on the type of shingles, the quality of installation, and how well you maintain it.
A poorly maintained roof may have:
- Damaged or missing shingles
- Damaged or missing flashing
- Visible holes
- Leaks inside the house
- Excess debris
- Clogged gutters
If the roof is still new, you can simply make a few repairs, but if the roof is old and shows these signs of damage, it may be best to replace it. There may be underlying damage that you can't see.
What Are the Benefits of Total Replacement?
If you have an asphalt shingle roof, you may be able to ask about an overlay. An overlay is less invasive because the roofer installs new shingles over the old ones. This, however, means they are unable to identify and fix any flaws or underlying issues. Instead, the flaws are repeated, and the damage is left ignored to cause future problems.
Total roof replacement is more beneficial because roofers can fully examine and fix all parts of the roof, so you aren't just hiding problems. Plus, an overlay adds a lot of excess weight to the roof, but a total replacement keeps the roof lightweight. Last, when you choose total replacement, you can choose different roofing materials like wood, metal, clay, or slate.
How Much Does a New Roof Cost?
The cost of a new roof depends on the size of the roof and the roofing material. Asphalt shingles are usually the least expensive at about $1 per square foot for a 3-tab asphalt shingle. Architectural shingles look better but cost more.
However, a new roof will boost curb appeal, which can be crucial when it comes time to sell your home. Plus, a new roof is an investment with a decent ROI. An asphalt shingle roof has an ROI of about 68.2 percent, so you may recoup over half your investment.
Don't wait any longer to replace your roof. If your roof is getting old and damaged, it can lead to major leaks and holes. If you would like to know more, or if you want a quote on a new roof, contact a roofing contractor today.