There are many factors that can determine when and how you replace your residential roof. Here are a few things to consider if you think it may be time to replace your roof:
Geographic Location
Do you live by the water or in an open field? Is your property located in area that regularly experiences high winds? If so, you may want to consider higher grade materials for your roof, in lieu of basic 3-tab shingles. If you live by the ocean, salt water is also a factor, as it can affect metal, so if metal is used you should consult with your estimator on recommended options.
Budget
If money is an object, the most popular, economical choice for a residential reroof is an architectural style shingle. This roof is a step up from the basic grade, 3-tab shingle. Although the 3-tab shingle can provide a good quality roof, it can withstand winds up to about 60 mph, whereas an architectural roof can withstand up to 130 mph. The difference in price for your investment is usually worth the upgrade if that increase can be accommodated by your budget.
Pitch of Roof
Pitch or slope (steepness) of your roof, or certain portions of your roof, plays a major role in what type of roof will best perform on that surface. Anything from flat to a 3:12 pitch is considered a low slope roof and should, in almost all cases, receive a membrane roof system for best performance.
Home or Rental/How Long Do You Plan to Stay?
People who plan to live in a property for several years typically tend to invest a little more in their roof system so that it will not need to be replaced as frequently. When replacing the roof on a rental property, the decision to go with a lower or higher grade material depends on what you are looking for as far as your return on investment.
Look/Style of the Roof System
Luxury shingles, metal, flat, slate, and specialty materials all have a unique appearance. Choose a roof system that will not only last, but that compliments the appearance of the property.
Tearing Off Old Roof vs. Roofing Over
We do not recommend installing materials over shingles. It is important to inspect the wood deck to ensure that the new roof is being installed over a sound structure. Roofing materials are extremely heavy, and building on a structure that cannot support the weight of the materials can be dangerous. Roofing over a previously installed roof can be considered under certain circumstances, usually with flat roof systems, but consult with your roofer for the best solution.
Timing
Not waiting too long to replace a roof can save you quite a bit of money in the long run. Ongoing leaks on any roof can lead to rotten and deteriorated sheathing, which adds up in the end.
Be sure to consult with a qualified, licensed roofing company on best practices.
Jeri Eley/Operations Coordinator/757-399-3066/jeri@andrewsroofing.com