Roofers have a tough job. They work at heights, carrying heavy shingles and nailing them to the roof's surface. In addition to working hard, roofers are also very knowledgeable. They can recommend the best roofing material to fit your budget and preferences, and they can make repairs, as needed, to ensure your roof continues to keep your home safe. There's a lot to learn about roofing. We are not professionals, but we consider ourselves to be well-informed, and we share the information we know on this website. As you read, you will learn more about roofing as a profession, and you may also pick up some roofing tips you can use on your own home.
It's common sense that a roof replacement quote will be dependent on roof size and the type of shingles or roofing material. There are other lesser-known factors that should also be figured into the quote to ensure accuracy. If you don't see the following mentioned, then ask your roofer why they are not included in the quote.
1. Total Height
Single-story houses are typically less expensive to roof than multi-story homes. There are a couple of reasons for this. First, there are safety concerns for taller roofs that may increase the cost. Second, special equipment may be necessary, such as scaffolding, cherry pickers, and other things used to simplify work.
2. Pitch and Shape
A steeply pitched roof may cost more during replacement for many of the same issues as a tall roof — it is more dangerous to roof and special equipment may be necessary. The same is true for complicated roof designs, such as those with multiple hips, valleys, or roof peaks. Further, steep and complicated shaped roofs can require more work hours to complete.
3. Replacement Style
When replacing a roof, you may have the option to re-roof, which is installing the new roof over the old shingles. This is commonly done when replacing an asphalt shingle roof with metal panels, but it is also sometimes done when covering asphalt shingles with new asphalt shingles. If your roof is eligible for re-roofing, the quote will be less expensive compared to a traditional tear-off and full replacement.
4. Deck Condition
The deck, sometimes called sheathing or cladding, is the plywood base for your roofing shingles. If there has been no major damage or leaks, the deck is typically in fine condition and won't need to be replaced. Minor damage to the deck can be repaired, and this cost should be reflected in the quote. Major damage may require a full deck replacement, which will also raise the quote. Keep in mind that the extent of decking damage may be unknown until your roofer begins the tear-off, though.
5. Accessory Replacement
There are a variety of accessory roofing components that may or may not require replacement at the same time as the roof. Flashing and vent pipe boots, for example, can sometimes be reused, but the quote should reflect the cost of any that require replacing. Gutter systems and vents are other accessories that may also impact your roof quote.
Contact a residential roof replacement service for more information.