Roofs protect homes from the elements, extreme weather and pests. A damaged roof can lead to leaks, mold and mildew, higher energy bills and lower resale value.

If your roof has sustained damage, consult a professional roofer like Montana Roofing Solutions for a thorough inspection. Here are some things to consider when deciding between a repair or replacement:

The cost of a new roof depends on several factors, including the type of material and labor. Some materials, like asphalt shingles, are more budget-friendly than others, such as clay tiles. The size of the roof also impacts the price. Adding more square footage increases the cost, and steeper roof pitches require more roofing materials and labor.

Minor repairs, such as replacing a few shingles or fixing a leak, can cost up to $400. Major repairs, however, can be much more costly, especially if you don’t address them as soon as you notice them.

Most homeowners choose to replace their roofs when they’re sagging, showing signs of ageing, or have visible mold growth. Some of these problems can even affect the structural integrity of your home, leading to serious damage and potential flooding. If you’re unsure whether or when it’s time for a new roof, consult a professional to get a full inspection.

The most significant cost for many homeowners is procrastination. Purchasing a new roof is a large investment and prices are trending upward for multiple reasons, including the pandemic, extreme weather, and increased demand.

There are other factors that can impact the cost of a new roof, such as local climate and installation method. For example, if your home is in an area that gets frequent heavy snowfall, you may need to install additional underlayment or ice barriers. These products can add up to $1,000 to your total cost.

A new roof can also increase your property value, which could offset some of the cost. However, if you’re planning to sell your house in the future, it’s important to balance these benefits against the costs of the project.

If you’re concerned about the cost of a new roof, consider getting multiple quotes from qualified roofers and scheduling your work during the off-season (late winter through spring). You can also check with your homeowner’s insurance to see if your policy covers part or all of the costs of a replacement. In addition, consider applying for a renovation loan, which is based on the estimated value of your home after the upgrade.

Materials

Choosing your roof replacement materials is a vital step to ensuring the longevity of your new roof. Several factors come into play, including your budget and the style of your home. Some materials, like slate and wood shakes, add curb appeal and increase your resale value. However, they can also be more expensive than basic asphalt shingles or PVC.

The cost of your new roof is largely determined by the type and quality of materials used. The pitch (angle) of your roof plays an important role in the installation process as well, since steeper-angled roofs require more material and painstaking labor to replace than lower-pitched roofs. Also, features such as skylights and chimneys will often require special flashing and materials to prevent water leakage.

Your roofing contractor will begin the installation by examining the existing roof, especially in the attic, to determine whether any areas are damaged or rotted. Then, he or she will remove the old shingles and replace any rotted areas with plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). The decking forms the foundation for the roof and helps protect against moisture infiltration. The ice and water barrier is then installed, which is a self-sealing membrane that protects your building from water penetration and ice buildup. This layer is followed by underlayment, which is a uniform layer of felt that prevents moisture from reaching the shingles and helps your shingle edges lay flatter.

Shingles and metal panels are the recognizable outer layers of your roof. Many homeowners opt for traditional asphalt shingles, which are relatively inexpensive and offer good durability. They also come in a variety of colors and styles, including architectural-style shingles that mimic the look of more expensive materials.

Other roof materials include ceramic tile, made from earthen clays and fired for strength and longevity. They are a popular choice in warmer climates and can withstand high-speed winds, earthquakes, hurricanes and tornadoes. Aesthetically, they are a beautiful addition to any home and can last upward of 50 years.

For those who prefer a greener option, rubber is a durable and sustainable material that can be molded to look like other roofing materials such as slate or wood. It is also less expensive than other roofing materials and offers energy efficiency benefits.

Installation

The installation process of a new roof is not an easy one, especially for homeowners who have never done it before. It’s a major construction project that takes place directly over your home, and it involves a lot of mess, noise, and safety equipment. However, it doesn’t have to be as daunting as it sounds if you are well-prepared.

Before the roofing crew arrives, you should remove any items from your attic or move them to another location. This will protect them from dust and debris during the replacement process. You should also cover movable items with tarps to protect them from stray nails that will be raining down off the old shingles. It’s also a good idea to move your cars out of the way. There will be a lot of debris during the roof replacement process, and you don’t want your cars to be damaged or require hours of cleaning.

Depending on the roof type, the installation of the new roof can be done in one or more stages. A new asphalt shingle roof can be completed in a day or two, while metal roofs may take a week or more. For complex projects, like those on historic homes, there may be delays due to permit approvals and inspections.

Once the old roof has been removed, a waterproof membrane will be installed to prevent water leaks and other damage. It will be applied to the entire roof surface, including over sagging areas. Metal flashing is then installed around chimneys, projections, and vents to create a tight seal. The ridge is then capped with a durable shingle that can be nailed into place.

Other important aspects of the roof installation process include ventilation, which will help keep the attic cool and regulate humidity and air flow. This is essential for a healthy attic space and to prevent mold growth. Ridge vents are often included on re-roofing projects to ensure proper ventilation and prevent winter ice dams. Gable vents can also be used in lieu of ridge vents. Lastly, gutters are cleaned out to ensure they are free of clogs and debris.

Maintenance

Getting the maximum life span and performance from a roof system depends heavily on consistent maintenance. Inadequate maintenance can result in a variety of issues including minor leaks, structural damage and premature failure. To avoid these problems, property owners should invest in routine inspections and timely repairs.

A good maintenance schedule for your roof includes the following steps:

Regular inspections: Inspect your roof on a regular basis to look for missing or damaged shingles, signs of wear and tear and potential leaks. This will help you identify and address any issues before they worsen.

Gutter maintenance: Clean your gutters regularly to prevent water buildup and clogging, which can cause serious roof damage.

Sealant and flashing inspections: Inspect the integrity of all sealing and flashing around vents, chimneys, skylights and other penetration points on your roof. Repairing any cracked or deteriorated sealant will prevent water leaks.

Moss and algae control: Remove moss and algae from your roof regularly to reduce the risk of moisture intrusion and structural damage.

Preventive treatments: Applying protective coatings and other treatments to extend the lifespan of your roof and increase its resistance to weather elements.

Air circulation: Ensure proper ventilation in your attic or roof space to prevent moisture buildup that can lead to mold growth and structural damage.

A well-maintained roof will enhance the overall curb appeal of your home and improve its resale value. It will also protect your investment and save you money in the long run by reducing the need for costly repairs or replacement.

Before starting your roof replacement project, make sure that you clear toys and patio furniture from the area around your house. Roofing professionals need to access the roof from multiple angles, and you don’t want them to trip over your child’s toy or lawn ornaments. You should also keep your pets indoors during the roof replacement process to avoid disturbing them with hammering and strangers. If possible, it’s best to have them stay with friends or a kennel service during this time. Otherwise, you can put them in a room with their favorite teddy bear or pet bed to make them feel comfortable and safe during the process.