Maintenance can help prolong the life of a residential roofing system but won’t make it last forever. The time will eventually come for a roof replacement. You can make more informed decisions for your project by doing thorough research. Choosing high-quality materials and hiring a reliable contractor will also help you maximize your investment. 

You want to be as ready as possible for your roof replacement. Asking your contractor these questions will help you plan your project. 

Which Roofing Material Is Best for My Home?

Look into which roofing material can withstand your local weather conditions and climate. It’s also important to consider your home’s structure. For instance, even if slate is attractive and durable, it isn’t ideal for many houses due to its weight. 

Asphalt shingle roofing dominates homes in the U.S. due to its cost-effectiveness, versatility, strength and appeal. It can give your humble abode excellent protection against the elements. This popular material is available in various designs and colors to complement different architectural styles. Moreover, an experienced local roofer will know which options work best for your home and location. 

How Long Will the Roof Replacement Process Take?

Various things can affect the duration of your project, such as the roof’s structure and size. Some materials also require more complex installation techniques than others. The time needed to replace a flat roof might be different from a sloped system. Unexpected circumstances, such as poor weather conditions, can push back the timeline of your project. 

After tearing off the old shingles, your contractor might discover problems with the structure underneath. They would have to perform necessary repairs before installing the new roofing material. You should set a portion of your budget for unforeseen scenarios like this to avoid stress and long delays. 

What Kind of Warranties Do You Offer?

Replacing a roof can involve significant costs. Warranties will protect your investment against poor craftsmanship and manufacturing defects. A reliable roofer will provide you with both material and workmanship warranties. If your new roof develops damage due to faulty products, the manufacturer will cover its replacement or repair if you have a material warranty. On the other hand, workmanship warranties cover issues resulting from improper installation. 

Remember that warranties will tell you a lot about the dependability of a roofer and the products they use. Professionals who are confident in their skills and know they can do the job right the first time will not hesitate to offer comprehensive warranties. It’s the same for manufacturers that go above and beyond to produce attractive, durable and reliable products.

What Is the Cost of My New Roof? 

You must know the cost of your new roof to create a realistic budget. Material and labor make up a huge portion of your project’s cost. The size of your roof often determines the cost of materials. Some contractors might charge higher labor costs because their workers are more experienced or skilled. 

If you are re roofing your home, get at least three estimates from different companies. Aside from giving you an idea of your roof replacement cost, it will also help you avoid unreliable contractors. Be wary of unrealistically low quotes or ones significantly cheaper than the others you received. The roofer could be cutting corners or using substandard materials on their projects. 

Hire a contractor based on their expertise, experience and reliability. Also, consider the manufacturers they work with and the warranties they offer. At KLIM Roofing & Construction, we’ve partnered with industry leader, GAF, to provide superior roofing solutions. You can always count on us for top-notch products and craftsmanship. 

How Will You Protect My Property?

Roof replacement can involve a lot of dust and debris. Your contractor should take necessary measures to keep other parts of your home safe from damage during construction. Before the work starts, ask your contractor about the steps they will take to protect your windows, doors, landscaping and other areas of your property. A reliable roofer will have a plan to minimize the risk of damage, contain the mess and keep the site organized throughout the project. 

What Will You Do if It Rains During Construction? 

It’s hard to predict the weather. There’s a possibility that it will suddenly rain in the middle of your roof replacement. Ask your contractor what they will do if it rains while they are working on your roof. Professionals will typically have to halt the construction and quickly cover exposed areas during a heavy downpour. They will wait for the rain to stop before continuing with the work. 

Should I Stay During the Project? 

Expect your roof replacement to be noisy and messy. Experts highly discourage staying in your home during the project, especially if you have kids and pets, due to its disruptive nature. If you choose to remain at home, consider having your little ones and fur babies stay with a friend or family member for the duration of your project. 

The banging sounds and strangers on your property can stress out your pets. Being on a construction site is especially dangerous for young children. Are you sensitive to loud noises? If so, the more reason to temporarily vacate the premises. It could be hard to focus and go on with your daily routine if you’re distracted. 

Who Will Supervise the Roof Replacement? 

A reputable contractor will have someone, usually a project manager, supervise the roof replacement and make sure everything goes according to plan. They will ensure your roof is installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and up to code. 

Even if contractors claim their workers are skilled or experienced and don’t require supervision, having someone look after the job is still necessary. Replacing a roof is a complex process. Even a slight mistake can affect the system’s performance and longevity.