What to Understand About Roofing Before Initiating Your Renovation

Six Tips for Approaching Your Roofing Project

Undertaking a roofing project involves more than just selecting the type and color of roofing material. While these projects typically take two to five days to complete, careful planning is essential before you embark on your renovation.

Indeed, acquiring a new roof may not be as exciting as renovating the kitchen or upgrading your bathroom, but it holds significant importance. The roof above your head serves as a shield for everything beneath it. It plays a crucial role in determining your heating and cooling expenses and contributes to the overall comfort of your home. What are some key considerations to bear in mind before commencing the process?

Should you renovate or repair?

Did your roof endure damage in the recent hailstorm? It doesn’t automatically imply that your entire roofing system requires replacement. Reach out to a reliable roofing contractor for an inspection. They specialize in identifying even the tiniest issues that may need repair, and they can provide guidance on whether a full roof replacement is necessary.

Materials

The appearance and style of your home can be influenced by the roofing materials you select. There are numerous options available, including:

Asphalt shingles

The most common material, effective in every environmental condition. Opting for impact-resistant shingles is a wise choice if you’re in an area prone to multiple hailstorms.

Slate

It has a lifespan of a century, is fire-resistant, waterproof, and resistant to fungus and mold. While it comes at a higher cost, it provides a distinctive aesthetic appeal.

Metal

This material typically lasts around 60 years under normal conditions and is well-suited for installation over existing roofs.

Cedar

Nothing surpasses the beauty of a cedar roof. It’s durable and energy-efficient, but it comes with a higher cost and requires regular maintenance.

These are just a few of the materials available today. Solar tiles are also becoming an option for more homeowners. Simply consult with your roofing contractor to determine what works best for your home.

Compliance

Verify with your local municipality, typically the code enforcement office at city hall, and ensure there are no regulations restricting your roofing choices. Some communities may have guidelines on materials, while your municipal building department might have regulations on how many times a roof can be overlaid with a new one. For instance, in certain areas, you might be limited to two layers of roofing, meaning if you’re already on the second layer, you’ll need to remove at least one.

Consider noise and debris

Prepare for noise and debris during the project – it’s going to be loud and messy. If you’re removing an old roof, expect additional hammering and debris in your yard. Additionally, debris might fall into your attic, so if it’s a usable space, make preparations. Items on shelves, especially breakables, might be dislodged by the banging, so consider relocating them to a safer place for added protection.

Permits

Like any significant home improvement project, you’ll need permits when replacing your roof. Contact your city hall to determine when and how to obtain the necessary permit. In Chicago, a building permit isn’t required for shingle roofing with a slope of 5 in 12 or steeper, but it’s essential to verify this information with your local authorities before proceeding with contractors.

Make your selection thoughtfully.

Obtain quotes from your preferred contractors. Remember that opting for the lowest bid may not always be in your best interest. Consider their experience, references from past clients, and inspect their previous work. The lowest bidder might have a reason for being low – you might be compromising on quality.

Trusted roofing contractor

At A2Z Roofing, we guide you through every step of the re-roofing process. Our comprehensive services include a detailed inspection, assistance in selecting the right materials, removal of your old roof, installation of the new one, and thorough cleanup of any debris generated during the process. As a proud GAF factory-certified contractor, we have full support from GAF and can provide a 50-year GAF full replacement warranty on both materials and labor. Choose VIS for a reliable roofing contractor with the necessary references to ensure you’re making the right decision.