7 Essential Questions to Ask Your Contractor Before a Roof Replacement

Roof Replacement Needs You Need to Know

It is important to understand your roof’s condition and what your roof replacement should accomplish. Whether it’s improving energy efficiency, increasing your home’s value, or ensuring long-lasting protection from the elements, having a clear understanding of your needs will make the following discussions much more productive.

• Assess your roof’s age: Roofs typically last between 20-30 years, depending on the material. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s time to consider a roof replacement. In North America, 94% of roofing projects are roof replacements, primarily due to the need to maintain buildings that are 25 to 50 years old.
• Identify specific issues: Look for signs like missing shingles, leaks, water stains on the ceiling, or mold growth. These problems could indicate the need for a full roof replacement.
• Know your budget: Setting a realistic budget before contacting a contractor will help you choose the right materials and avoid unnecessary expenses.

7 Questions to Ask Your Contractor Before a Roof Replacement

When planning a roof replacement, asking your contractor the right questions is essential to ensure a successful project that meets your needs and budget. Here are the seven crucial questions to guide your conversation.

1. What Are My Roofing Options, and Which Will Best Protect My Home?

The first question to ask your contractor is about the available materials for your roof replacement. Each roofing material offers different levels of protection, longevity, and aesthetic appeal. It’s vital to choose one that not only matches your budget but also provides the protection your home needs. Asking your contractor which materials are best suited for your specific needs and environment will ensure your roof replacement provides long-lasting protection. Factors like the local climate, energy efficiency, and aesthetic preferences should all play a role in your final decision.

Here are some common roofing materials to consider:

• Asphalt shingles: The most popular and budget-friendly option, asphalt shingles are easy to install and come in various styles and colors. They provide decent protection but may not last as long as other options, typically 20-30 years.
• Metal roofing: Durable and resistant to extreme weather conditions, metal roofing can last 40-70 years. It’s also fire-resistant, making it an ideal choice for areas prone to wildfires. Metal roofs are more expensive but offer excellent longevity.
• Tile roofing: Known for its Mediterranean aesthetic, tile roofing is highly durable and can last over 50 years. However, tiles are heavy and may require additional structural support.
• Wood shakes or shingles: These provide a natural, rustic look but require regular maintenance to prevent decay, especially in wet climates.
• Slate roofing: This is one of the most long-lasting roofing materials, with a lifespan of 100+ years, but it is also expensive and heavy, requiring structural reinforcement.

The materials and design of your roof significantly impact costs, with labor comprising up to 60% of the total cost. Contractors typically charge $40 to $60 per hour for installation or provide a flat-rate estimate.

Additional considerations:

• What is the material’s wind resistance rating?
• How well does the material handle temperature extremes?
• Can the material be customized to match the style of your home?

2. What Maintenance is Required After the Roof Replacement?

A roof replacement isn’t just about installing a new roof; it’s about ensuring that your investment lasts as long as possible. Different roofing materials require different levels of maintenance, so it’s important to understand how much upkeep is involved. Having a clear understanding of the maintenance requirements for each roofing material will help you choose a roofing system that matches your lifestyle and maintenance capabilities. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your roof but also keeps your home protected from damage.

• Asphalt shingles: Minimal maintenance is required, but regular inspections are important after severe weather. Shingles may need to be replaced individually over time.
• Metal roofs: While generally low maintenance, metal roofs should be inspected for rust, dents, and secure fastenings. Cleaning may be required to prevent debris accumulation.
• Tile roofing: Tiles can crack under heavy impact, so occasional inspections are needed to replace damaged tiles. Regular cleaning is also essential to avoid moss growth.
• Wood shakes or shingles: These require more frequent upkeep, including treatments for water resistance and protection against insects.
• Slate roofing: Slate is highly durable but can be heavy on maintenance if a tile becomes cracked or broken. Inspections should be carried out to ensure structural integrity.

3. How Can I Be Sure of the Roof’s Performance Over Time?

The performance of your roof is essential for keeping your home safe from the elements. Your roof replacement contractor should be able to provide information on how the chosen materials will perform over time. Ask your contractor to explain key performance factors such as:

• Wind resistance: If you live in an area prone to high winds or hurricanes, it’s critical to choose roofing materials with a high wind resistance rating. Metal roofs and high-quality shingles often provide superior wind resistance.
• Fire resistance: Some roofing materials are more fire-resistant than others. Metal, tile, and slate roofing provide excellent fire resistance, which may be important if you live in a wildfire-prone area.
• Energy efficiency: Certain roofing materials can help reduce your home’s energy consumption by reflecting sunlight and insulating the home. Metal and asphalt shingles with reflective coatings, for example, can improve energy efficiency.
• Durability and lifespan: Ask your contractor about the expected lifespan of the roofing material you choose. Asphalt shingles may last 20-30 years, while metal, slate, and tile can last much longer.

Your contractor should also explain how proper installation and ventilation will contribute to your roof’s performance. Poor installation can lead to leaks and structural issues that diminish the roof’s overall longevity and effectiveness. Ask these performance-related questions:

• Can you provide performance metrics or warranties for this roofing material?
• How does the material perform in extreme weather conditions?
• What kind of ventilation system will be installed to ensure the roof performs optimally?

4. Which Roofing Materials Are Structurally Suitable for My Home?

Not all roofing materials are suitable for every home, particularly if your house wasn’t designed to support heavy materials. Before committing to a roof replacement, your contractor must assess the structure of your home to determine which materials are appropriate.

• Load-bearing capacity: Heavy materials like slate and tile require additional structural support, which may increase the cost of your roof replacement. Your contractor should inspect your home’s structure to ensure it can handle the weight of the chosen material.
• Roof pitch: The slope of your roof also affects which materials can be used. For example, steep-pitched roofs may be ideal for shingles or slate, while low-pitched roofs might benefit from metal or rubber roofing.
• Foundation strength: The foundation of your home plays a role in how much weight your roof can bear. If you’re considering a heavier material, your contractor should assess the foundation to ensure it can support the added load.

5. Is the roofing material brand reliable?

The quality of your roof replacement isn’t just about the contractor’s skills; it’s also about the materials being used. Roofing materials should come from a reputable manufacturer with a strong track record of producing durable and reliable products. When speaking with your contractor, ask about:

• Manufacturer reputation: Is the material from a trusted manufacturer known for producing high-quality roofing products? Researching manufacturers’ histories can help you avoid subpar materials.
• Product warranties: A good warranty is a crucial aspect of any roof replacement. Be sure to ask about the warranty provided by the manufacturer, including how long it lasts and what it covers (materials, workmanship, etc.).
• Certifications and awards: Leading manufacturers often have certifications from industry bodies that verify the quality of their products. Ask your contractor if the materials they use have any industry recognition or certifications.