1. How much does it cost to replace a roof?
There is no simple answer to how much the bottom line will be for your roofing project. A bid from your contractor should be based upon square footage, the pitch of the roof, accessibility, type of roofing material, 1 to 2 story building, removal of old roof (if necessary), roof permit and city license and labor. The average cost to replace a roof runs from approximately $2,000.00 to $12,000.00 depending on the size of the roof and the quality of the workmanship and materials.
2. Should I have my old roof removed before the new one is installed?
Although the advantages of leaving your old shingles are obvious (cheaper, less labor, faster) unless the initial roof is a single, problem-free layer, you could be setting yourself up for trouble. You should discuss removing the old roof with your contractor if any of the following are true: Inspection of your roof shows it is in bad shape (curled shingles, moss, split etc.) The decking is sagging, rotting or deteriorating The new roof is of a lighter material than the original roof. If you put lightweight shingles over heavyweight shingles, all of the old bumps and ridges from the original roof will show. Your roof already has more than one layer. You live in a climate where ice dams are possible (i.e., the average January temperature is below freezing) and the old roof has no ice or water protection membrane.
3. How long does it take to replace a roof?
Replacing a roof, whether on a commercial or residential building, is a labor-intensive project and, depending upon the type of roof, could take from 2 days to 2 or more weeks. The time involved is also considerably affected by weather (wind, snow, rain etc.). Careful planning and close project management can reduce some of the delays caused by bad weather. It also takes more time for removal of existing roofing and each additional layer.
4. What is the life expectancy of my new roof?
This question requires two answers depending upon what type of roof work you are having performed.
Relay: Typically a relay, which involves adding a second layer over an existing layer, you can expect a life expectancy of 10 to 20 years.
Tear-off: A tear-off is the removal of the existing layer (or layers). Typically the life expectancy is 15 to 30 years.
NOTE: To obtain full and maximum life expectancy of your roof regular maintenance and/or inspection of the roof should be conducted twice a year. For more information regarding maintenance and inspection visit our General Preventative Maintenance section.
5. Can I replace missing or damaged tiles or shingles without calling a roofing contractor?
It is always recommended that you use a professional. However, in case of an emergency, it is possible to replace a shingle or broken tile yourself.
Composition Shingles: For composition shingles, roofing cement can be used to repair torn or curled shingles. Stabilize repaired shingles with nails or a heavy board until cement has dried. To replace a composition shingle, carefully lift the shingle above the missing shingle, then trim and place a new shingle underneath so that it doesnŐt catch on any edges (remove any excess staples or nails). Carefully nail the new shingle into place.
Wood Shingles or Shakes: Repairs are best done with an aluminum piece that can be slid under the shingle. This should protect the exposed area, while not being visible from below. Replace a wood shingle requires a special tool, a shingle ripper, to slip under the shingle and hook and cut the nail. The nail can also be cut with a hacksaw, but is difficult to do. Slip the new shingle into position, but leave it 1/4 of an inch longer than the other shingles. Then nail it into place right below the end of the overlapping shingle above. Finally, with a block of wood against the shingle butt, drive it up the last 1/4 of an inch to bend the nails under the shingle above.
Tiles: To replace a tile remove all broken pieces, then gently lift the tiles and slide the new tile into place until it hooks over the batten.
6. Should I have my chimney looked at before I have roof work done?
If the chimney requires any type of maintenance or repair the best time to have work performed is before a new roof is installed. Coordinate the chimney mason with your roofing contractor to ensure that all chimney flashing and repairs are completed properly prior to installation of your new roof.
7. Do my solar panels have to be removed to install the new roof?
Most solar panels are either bolted to or mounted on the existing roofing material and must be removed before a new roof can be installed. Because solar panels are charged using a type of antifreeze, they will have to be removed and reinstalled by a licensed plumber who can ensure that the job is accomplished properly.
8. When is the best time to make aesthetic changes involving the roof
(i.e. pitch, skylights, vents etc.)?
• Changing a flat to a pitch roof is a good idea and alleviates problems associated with flat roofs. This would entail installing a new roofing structure.
• Skylights can be installed at the time of a new roof or during repair work.
• It is typically a good time to install vents when a new roof is being installed. More ventilation can also be added at any time to help better ventilate the attic for better protection against ice dams and to obtain a longer life expectancy from the roofing structure.
9. Is Wendell's Roofing and Remodeling insured?
Yes, we are completely insured with Liability and Worker's Compensation insurance. A copy of these documents are provided to all of our customers with the written proposal.
10. Do you use Ice and Water Shield?
Yes, this membrane protects your roof from wetness, against ice dams and costly leak repairs.
11. Will I have to pull a permit?
Wendell's is a full service company. We do all the work for you. All you have to do is choose the style and color of your new roof.
