At one point or another, your roof will need to be replaced. When it does, you want to understand what goes into a roofing job so that you can be ready for what lies ahead. From the materials to the cost and process, it’s important to know about every aspect of the shingle roof replacement being done to your home.
That’s where Artisan Quality Roofing comes in. As your trusted roofing company in North Carolina, we want you to be fully prepared when it comes to your roofing project. We’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you every step of the way. From understanding the process to the cost of shingle roof replacement to the reasons why you may need to get a new roof, we’ve got you covered.
Reasons to Replace Your Shingle Roof
If you’ve never had to replace your roof, you may not know when the right time is. But your roof does! It will send you little hints to let you know that roof replacement should be on your to-do list.
Visible Wear & Tear
Buckling or curling roof edges can be a clear sign that you need to replace your roof. This can occur due to age and exposure to excessive heat.
Rust is another common problem. If there is rust, it can damage metal, leading to leaks.
Broken Shingles
Cracked or damaged shingles are also a sign that your roof needs replacing. If your shingles are cracked or damaged, moisture can seep in, leading to more costly problems.
Water Damage
Water damage can wreak havoc on your roof shingles. You want to get this type of damage replaced quickly to avoid further problems.
Granule Buildup
The accumulation of granules in your gutters indicates that your shingles are shedding their protective granules and may need replacement. As the protective granules wear off the shingles, they collect in the gutters. The absence of these granules exposes the underlying asphalt layer of the shingle. Once this asphalt layer is exposed, it deteriorates more rapidly, potentially leading to leaks.
Other Considerations
Several other factors can signal that a shingle roof replacement is in your future. These include:
- An asphalt shingle roof that is more than 10 years old
- Structural failure
- Severe damage
- Wanting to improve your home’s energy efficiency
If your roof is showing any signs that it needs replacing, your local roofing contractors at Artisan Quality Roofing are here to get the job done.
Types of Shingles
When it comes to roof replacements, there are several different types of shingles you can choose from:
Asphalt composition shingles
These are the most popular roofing materials as they are inexpensive and easy to get. But they may not be as attractive as some other options due to their flat appearance.
Wood shingles
While these shingles are attractive, they are expensive and not recommended for areas with high fire danger.
Composition slate
Composite shingles are made from mostly recycled materials. They look like slate but are much lighter and more durable.
Metal Roofing
Steel or aluminum roofs have become more popular over the years because of their durability. While they are more expensive, many people find them to be a good investment.
Slate Roofing
These types of shingles are expensive and heavy. They can also be difficult to repair if damaged.
When deciding on your roofing materials, you want to consider how long your roof will last. According to the National Association of Home Builders, slate and copper roofs can last more than 50 years. Wood shake roofs can last for about 30 years, while fiber cement shingles have a life of nearly 25 years. Asphalt shingle composition roofs can last about 20 years.
Factors That Affect Roof Replacement Costs
When people hear they have to have their entire roof replaced, the first thing they may think of is the roof cost. A roof replacement cost can depend on several factors:
Shingle type
As we mentioned above, there are several types of roofing shingles. The type can drastically impact your new roof cost.
Roof size
A larger roof will cost you more to replace than a smaller roof. More materials are needed, and more time will be needed, driving up the roofing costs.
Labor costs
The company you chose as well as the project complexity and season can all impact the labor rate. At Artisan Quality Roofing, we pride ourselves on offering affordable rates on our roof replacement projects.
Dump Fees
Some roofing contractors will charge an additional fee to haul away the old shingles and other roofing debris. You need to consider this as well.
How a Shingle Roof Replacement Works
Besides understanding the type of roofing material and what impacts the cost, it’s also important to be aware of what happens during a shingle roof replacement.
Roof Tear-Off
Your roofing contractor will first do a roof tear-off. This consists of removing the shingles by section so that your new roof can be installed. This will allow your contractor to get a better look at your roof and its structure.
It will also let them know whether your decking needs to be replaced or updated. The decking adds a significant amount of protection to your roof and is at the center of its structural support.
Decking Inspection
Since the decking is such an important roof component, it needs to be inspected thoroughly. If there is even the slightest damage to the decking, it can compromise the entire structural integrity of the roof. When your contractor detects any rotting or damage, you’ll want to have the decking replaced as well.
Underlayment
Next comes the underlayment. This is a layer that is placed between the decking and shingles. It can act as a water-resistant or waterproof layer and is attached directly to the roof deck.
Drip Edge
Your roofing contractor will also install a drip edge around your roof’s perimeter. This directs rainwater away from your roof and prevents it from entering the shingle layers and structure.
Flashing
The flashing is a thin steel aluminum component that is used to keep runoff water away from areas of the roof like skylights, siding, and chimneys.
Shingles and Vents
Once all of those steps are taken, it’s time for the shingles to be installed. The shingles are installed section by section. The roofing ventilation system is also installed at this time. This is to provide ventilation to your attic. There are different types of ventilation systems, such as ridge vents, that your roofing contractor will review with you so you can choose the best one for your home.
Once your new roof is installed, your roofing contractor will clean up the area so that it is safe.
FAQ about Shingle Roof Replacement
Can a shingle roof replacement be a DIY project?
While most homeowners take the DIY route for many projects, a roof replacement should not be one of them. Many risks and safety hazards should only be handled by professional roofers. They have the necessary expertise to get the job done safely and efficiently.
Reputable roofing companies often provide warranties and guarantees on their work, giving homeowners greater peace of mind.
How long does a shingle roof replacement take?
Several factors affect how long the roofing process will take. The roof’s size, height, pitch, and shingle material, all play a role. Typically, a medium-sized roof can take 1-2 days to install. Since each project is unique, this timeframe can vary.
Can I partially replace my roof?
Some homeowners wonder if they can get away with only replacing a few shingles rather than the entire roof. While you may think you can save a few dollars, it can end up costing more if you do the job in phases. There may also be cosmetic differences between the new shingles and the old roof. To avoid these complications, it’s often more cost-effective to replace shingles at the same time.
Do You Need to Replace Your Roof? Contact Our Shingle Roof Experts Today
Artisan Quality Roofing is your trusted source for roofing services in the Raliegh-Durham area. Our team has the experience you need to help you choose the roofing materials for your new roof. We will walk you through the process and explain all aspects of the project.
Get started on your roofing project today by calling Artisan Quality Roofing at 919-906-3791 or by filling out the contact form below.
