Every home has a roof, but it is not something most people think about daily. That is, until a problem arises. When it comes time to replace your roof, it can be hard to know where to start.
A good roof protects your home from rain, snow, and hail and helps you save on energy costs. Choosing the right roof is essential, but you don’t have to do it alone.
A new roof installation can be a daunting home improvement project for new and seasoned homeowners alike. Hiring experienced, professional contractors will help ease your mind and ensure you get the best roof possible.
That being said, it is YOUR house! Knowing exactly what goes into the roof installation process will help you make confident, informed decisions when it comes time to hire a contractor.
“Why Do I Need to Know How A Roof Is Installed?”
It’s a fair question. After all, that’s why we go to professionals. They have the answers we don’t!
The fact is that not all contractors are created equal. Understanding roofing installation will help you weed out the quality companies from the less reputable (no anonymous Google reviews required). Having knowledge under your belt will also ensure you are paying a fair price for your new roof replacement.
What to Ask Your Contractor
When hiring a contractor, there are some essential questions you will want to ask. This will help you get a better sense of whether or not they will be the right fit for you.
- “Are you licensed and insured?” – It might seem like a no-brainer, but this is a crucial question. Not all states have the same requirements, and less reputable contractors might try to save some money by failing to get the proper paperwork. This can leave you liable and at risk for any injuries that happen at your home. A quality contractor will gladly provide proof of insurance and licensure.
- Request a Quote – Shopping around to find a contractor that is right for you is perfectly acceptable. Getting a quote can help you avoid any unpleasant financial surprises further down the road.
- “Who will be my main contact?” – Any construction project can come with confusion about who is in charge. Throughout your roof replacement, you will likely connect with many team members from the business. Knowing who your primary contact is will help avoid communication problems further down the road.
Understanding The Different Types of Roofing Materials
Knowing the pros and cons of various roofing materials can help you decide which type is right for you.
- Asphalt Shingles – By far the most popular type of roof tile, asphalt shingles stand out from the crowd by being one of the most cost-effective roofing shingles on the market. An asphalt shingle roof is a popular choice for a reason. New shingles can last up to 30 years with very low maintenance.
- Wooden Shingles – If you want to add major old-world charm to your house, then wooden shingles may be a great choice! This classic roofing material can also be purchased in shake form. Wood shakes are split by hand and lend a more rustic feel to your home. While a wood roof is undoubtedly beautiful, keep in mind that it is more prone to rot and water damage and will need more maintenance than other types of roof shingles.
- Metal Roofs – Metal roofs are growing in popularity. It is easy to see why. Metal roofs are very durable and require little maintenance. A well-installed metal roof can last up to fifty years! The downside? They are a more expensive roofing option.
What To Expect
Now that you’ve chosen the type of roof you want, it’s time to install it! You’ve researched roofing contractors and found one that works for you. So, what can you expect as they start to replace your old roof?
1) Preparing The Roof Deck
The first step of your roof installation is to make sure that the roof deck is in tip-top shape! The roofing professionals will begin by removing the old shingles off your roof and assessing the roof deck. It will need to be replaced if it has suffered water damage or rot. If not, it is time to weatherproof your roof!
Weatherproofing is an essential part of ensuring the longevity of your roof.
- This starts by installing a drip edge. The drip edge will protect your edge of the roof from water damage.
- This is typically followed by an ice and water shield to prevent ice dams from forming in cold climates.
- The roof underlayment is generally installed next. Made out of sturdy felt material, the underlayment creates a water barrier over your roof deck.
2) Add the Flashing
Roofs are particularly vulnerable to water damage where their slopes meet. These are referred to as valleys. Contractors solve this problem by adding metal flashing. The flashing will help redirect any water that gets past your shingles.
3) Install Your Starter Shingles
Starter shingles are the last protective step before you can begin the shingle installation. These are typically only added to the first row of the eaves and gables to add extra protection against ice and water.
4) Time for Installing Shingles
It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! The roofers will begin adding your chosen shingles to the roof’s surface. When all the shingles have been nailed in, the roofers will trim the shingles for a clean look. After this, they will apply step flashing for a watertight seal to any walls.
5) Ridge Cap Shingles and Sealant
The last step is adding ridge cap shingles. These are curved shingles that fit over along the ridge of your roof. The roofers will then seal any areas with exposed nails.
Feel Confident in Your Home
While you may never have to replace a roof yourself, knowing how it is done empowers you to make the decisions that best support your home. After all that, your job is to sit back, relax, and enjoy the security that comes with having a properly installed new roof! And our team at Andes Roofing is proud to offer the most stress-free roofing experience available.
If it’s time for a roof replacement, our friendly team will take the time to walk you through every single step of the process, show you the materials we use, and answer any questions you may have. That’s why we have hundreds of 5-star reviews! Don’t put off your roofing project any further— contact Andes Roofing today for a free estimate!
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