The decision to repair or replace your roof is a big one, so if you are new to the process, it’s a great idea to become familiar with two critical steps so you can avoid potential headaches.
As the first layer of protection against inclement weather and the elements, the roof of your home plays an important role. Additionally, it’s a vital component in the insulation system of your residence.
The degradation and decline to your roof may happen gradually over time or your home may experience an untimely accident that requires the roof to be replaced. There are several examples of how a roof can incur damage:
- A gutter that isn’t well maintained may become clogged sending water and debris under the roof’s shingles which will soak the supporting beams and cause buckling.
- A large overhanging tree branch can become aged or too heavy from snow accumulation and break causing significant damage to your roof.
- There may be poor connection points between shingles and, unknown to you, rainwater has been leaking inside for years.
- The contractor, initially hired at the time of the home’s construction, may have installed a waterproof barrier that is of poor quality. As a result, the trusses supporting the roof became damaged.
Regardless of the cause, experienced roofers in Portland can fix the problem quickly. Refrain from making any repairs yourself. Falls are the number one cause of injuries and accidents in home construction.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Roof?
Roofers in Portland can help you decide if your roof needs to be repaired or replaced. With the exception of a specific area that’s damaged, if your roof is in otherwise excellent condition, you may be able to replace only the area that’s damaged. A professional can conduct a visual inspection to assess the scope of the damage.
But if the area of the damage is extensive or if your roof is over 20 years old, strongly consider replacing it entirely.
The Cost of Replacing Your Roof
The next most significant factor is determining if you can afford it. When tabulating the cost of replacing your roof, calculate the square footage of the roof itself, not the square footage of the residence. For example, a 2,000 sf one-story ranch style residence with overhangs will probably have a roof larger than a 2,000 sf two-story home with no overhangs.
The cost of roof replacement is not insignificant, so it’s in the best interest of any homeowner to speak with a roofer in Portland. They can provide you with greater clarity about the options available, which includes financing options.
To get a good idea of the price tag for replacing your roof, add the cost of the following:
- The cost of the materials needed for the square footage of your roof- venting systems, asphalt shingles, water barriers, etc.
- The cost of the items that need to be replaced- damaged trusses, gutters, vents, plywood, chimneys, etc.
- Labor
- Equipment
- Taxes
When discussing costs with your contractor, determine if those costs are fixed or estimated. Also have them give you a detailed itemized estimate.
Taking care of your roof should be part of your home’s regular maintenance program. Some of those critical steps include clearing the gutters of any blockage, sweeping away debris like branches and leaves (which will help keep your gutter clear), and checking for any damaged shingles.