From Tear-Off to Finishing Touches: What’s Included in a Roof Replacement
A leaky roof is a significant problem for your home, health, and budget. The average roof leak in the United States causes nearly $11,000 in damage, and the only way to ensure your home’s bones stay strong is to replace the roof. The best roofs will succumb to the elements over a long period, but you can overcome leaks and sagging roofs by knowing the signs that you need a new roof.
It’s fair to wonder what is included in roof replacement since you’re spending significant money to upgrade your home and prevent water damage. The roof replacement process is complex, and knowing the ins and outs will help you understand what’s happening with your home.
Fortunately, you’ve come to the right guide to learn more about installing a new roof on your home. Continue reading to plan your roof replacement today!
Remove Old Roofing Materials
The first thing a reputable roofing company does when arriving at your home to replace a roof is removing the old roofing materials. With that method, you can install new asphalt shingles over existing ones, but your home will have a less secure roof. Expect the contractors to use roofing shovels to remove the old roofing materials to prepare your home for a new roof.
The roofing company located here will bring a portable dumpster to deposit the roofing materials into after removing them. Removing old materials is one of the most challenging aspects of the roof replacement process. It’s best to hire trained experts for the best results.
Make Necessary Repairs
After the old roofing materials get stripped away, the experts can identify signs of damage below. They’ll use the necessary tools and roofing supplies to repair any damage they find. Replacing the sheathing is vital to ensure a sturdy and stable roof for decades.
Never cover up a damaged roof during the replacement process. Covering up damage will fail to fix the problem and potentially worsen things.
Install a Drip Edge
A drip edge isn’t always necessary when getting a roof replacement on your home, but it adds value and protection to your new investment. The drip edge prevents water from running along the fascia boards the installers replaced for your roof. Ensure the drip edge is placed tightly against these boards, and use roofing nails to keep them in place.
Install Water and Ice Barriers
Water and ice barriers are another critical component of a new roof. Living in a climate with plenty of snow and ice means upgrading your roof to combat the elements. If you live in a harsh winter climate, your water and ice barriers will save you significant money in water damage repairs.
The purpose of these barriers is to protect the roof sheathing from water and ice damage. Install these barriers in any locations on your home’s roof at 2/12, 3/12, or 4/12 pitch. Any valleys in your roof are perfect locations to put these water and ice barriers for added protection.
Your roofing contractor will know where to install these barriers to protect against ice dams. It’s one of the most effective ways to prevent water damage and leaks in your new roof.
Lay the Roofing Paper
The next step when learning what is included in roof replacement is the roofing paper. The roofing paper is installed after the ice and water barriers are installed on your roof. The purpose of roofing paper is to provide additional protection against moisture and fire.
The contractors will nail and staple the roofing paper to the roof’s sheath at 12-inch increments. It’s another critical component when learning about the roofing materials your contractors will use for your roof replacement.
Use Flashing
The purpose of your home’s roof is to protect your household and the house’s structure from damage. Protecting the structure from water damage is your most significant challenge as a homeowner. The more roofing materials you install to keep water out of your home, the more effective the roof is.
The roofing paper, drip edge, and ice shield are excellent additions for a sturdy roof and dry home. Flashing is the perfect addition to the valleys in your home’s roof. Nail metal flashing keeps moisture out of your home.
The best approach is installing the flashing and caulking around it. Your contractor will use this method to ensure the sheathing and tresses stay solid and dry.
Install the Roofing Materials
You’ll find several excellent options for roofing materials when replacing your home’s roof. The contractor will bring the materials to your home and install them on the other layers. You’ll watch your new roof materialize at this point in the roof replacement process.
The contractor will install your new asphalt shingles at the ends of the roof. They’ll gradually work toward the roof’s peak until each inch of your home’s roof gets covered and protected.
Use a Ridge Vent
Ask your roofing contractor to install a ridge vent if your home doesn’t already have one. The most notable benefit of installing a ridge vent for your home is the increased air circulation inside. A ridge vent can prevent water damage and mold growth in your home and attic.
The contractor will find the perfect location for your roof’s new ridge vent. They’ll add the necessary flashing around the space where the vent will go and proceed to shingle the area around it. After installing a ridge vent on your home’s new roof, you’ll enjoy increased air circulation and energy efficiency.
Now You Know What Is Included in Roof Replacement
Understanding what is included in a roof replacement is the best way to get value for your dollar when repairing a leak or overhauling the whole roof. The contractors will remove the old roofing materials and inspect the structure for damage.
Their skills will help them install ice and water barriers to protect the roof’s sheath. They’ll install your chosen roofing materials and a ridge vent for air circulation.
Investing in and improving your home is part of the joy of becoming a homeowner. Explore more of our Home and Real Estate articles for comprehensive guides and tips today!
