Most people only need to replace their roof once or twice in their lifetime, so the process isn’t well known. From researching a reliable roofer to the final steps of roof installation, there are details you can expect and plan for to make the roof replacement process run smoothly.
Here are some basic things you need to know when you have your roof replaced.
Factor that Impact the Roof Replacement Process
Your area’s weather
Living in the St. Paul or Minneapolis area, you’re no stranger to snow and ice storms. After severe storms, take a pair of binoculars, step across the street and do a visual inspection of your roof. If you spot winter storm damage to your roof, it needs to be addressed promptly. Our emergency repair services can help you avoid additional damage. We can assess your roof to determine the best long-term solution for your needs. Often after hailstorms, your roof may require a full replacement. Be proactive and reach out to our reliable team to get solid solutions for your situation.
The season of the year you get your roof replaced
Winter snow and spring rain can cause delays in your roof replacement process. The dry days of summer provide the ideal time to get an uninterrupted roof replacement.
Your home’s overall layout and roof size
As you would expect, the size of your home will impact the cost and length of time it takes to complete your roof replacement project. Additional obstacles such as an inground pool, landscaping, and other outdoor features adjacent to your home factor into the contractor’s access to your roof. Special care will need to be taken to prevent any damage to your outdoor amenities.
The unique characteristics of your roof
Your roof ridge and valleys, along with your dormers all factor into your roof replacement.
Your roof’s pitch (the angle or slope of your roof) will impact which materials you can choose from and will affect installation.
Most roofing has a medium pitch and will give you a wide variety of material options to choose from. High pitch roofing creates a dramatic look to your home’s appearance, while less common low pitch roofing gives a modern, sleek look to contemporary homes.
Roof Replacement Steps
Research your options to find the best roofing contractor
Take time to check BBB and Angi ratings of several different roofing companies. Ask friends and neighbors for referrals. Check websites and make phone calls to get a feel for each company you are considering, and schedule an estimate from your top choices.
Get roofing estimates from reputable companies
You’ll learn plenty about each roofing contractor when they come to your home for an on-site assessment of your needs. They’ll take time to answer your questions and get you a detailed written estimate for you to consider.
Ask about roofing materials and warranties
While meeting with your potential roofing contractor, inquire about the variety of roofing materials you can choose from.
Check fire ratings for different roofing materials
Protect your biggest investment by asking about the safety features of your roofing material choice such as its fire rating.
Schedule your roof replacement
Weather permitting, it should take 2-3 days for the typical roof replacement process. Allow enough time for you to prepare your home.
Prepare your home exterior for the replacement process
Remove any toys and lawn furniture from the perimeter of your home exterior. Move your vehicles out of the way to protect them from any stray debris falling. Trim back any landscaping that is bordering your home, particularly any tree limbs. Make arrangements for pets and small children during the roofing installation process. Your contractor will tarp your landscaping to protect it.
Contractors remove and dispose of your old shingles
Removing all your old roof shingles will allow for a thorough inspection of the wood under it. The wood will be inspected for damages, and repairs will be executed as needed before your roofing material is installed.
Protective elements are added to your roof
Although these will vary, they may include things such as a drip edge and protection from moisture.
New shingles are installed
Once your roof is prepared, your shingles will be installed. Don’t be alarmed if you hear loud noises throughout your roofing installation.
Ridge vent and flashing are installed
A ridge vent keeps the air circulating in your attic and allows it to breathe, keeping your utility bills down. Flashing is installed around your chimney to seal it well and protect it from moisture intrusion.
The roofing installation team will clean up your yard
While the roofing professionals will clean up after their work each day, once your roof is replaced, for your protection, the roofing team will thoroughly clean your property using magnetic sweeping.
Your roof will be inspected
After your roofing replacement is complete, it will be inspected to verify it was installed properly.
What about a gutter replacement?
Once your roof replacement is done, you can replace your gutters. Check with us about new gutter options.
Protect Your Home with a Beautiful New Roof
At Beissel Window and Siding, we understand how overwhelming it can feel to need a new roof. That’s why we developed a simple process to help guide you toward the best long-term solution for your home.
We use premium manufacturers such as Owens-Corning and GAF, and we provide generous guarantees for our materials and workmanship. Add tremendous value to your home by accelerating its curb appeal with a new roof. Take a moment to learn more about our roof replacement services.
