The Ultimate Roof Replacement Guide
- Eureka Contracting & Roofing
- 3 hours ago
- 7 min read
Many homeowners know that replacing a roof is one of the most expensive home improvement costs. When looking at new homes, buyers must consider the age of the roof before committing to an offer. Depending on a home's size (square footage), a new roof costs between $5K and $12K, although the average price is slightly more than $9K.
Current homeowners struggle to understand when a full roof replacement is necessary. What are the signs that a roof must be replaced? More importantly, how can current homeowners prepare for managing the cost of a new roof?
Eureka Contracting and Roofing believes that homeowners need all the information they need to understand when their roofs must be replaced and anticipate the cost of this project. Use our Ultimate Roof Replacement Guide to learn everything you need to know about choosing a new roof, budgeting, and when a full roof replacement is the most cost-efficient option.
Table of Contents:
The type of roofing material impacts the longevity of the roof. While standard asphalt shingles need to be replaced after 20 years, other materials endure for centuries. Homeowners also must understand the warning signs of a failing roof.
The Anatomy of Your Roof
Never take the roof of a home for granted. This part of the home protects you from the weather, debris, and wildlife. Unfortunately, the roof also takes a bit of abuse, taking the brunt of bad weather like hail, snow, sleet, rain, and random debris tossed by the wind.
The Three Layers of a Roof
How much do you know about the composition of your roof? This protective portion of the house includes more than just shingles. We're stripping down the lingo beneath the roof to help you understand every aspect of your roof:
Decking
The decking of a roof is the very bottom layer. The decking is made of wood. Beneath the decking is insulation and the ceiling of the attic.
Underlay
On top of the decking and beneath the shingles is the roof's underlay. The underlay is typically composed of felt or sometimes fiberglass.
Shingles
The shingles lay atop the underlay. Shingles can be made from various materials, including slate, metal, wood, rubber, and asphalt (the least expensive). The shingle material impacts its longevity.
Other Parts of the Roof
The roof includes other protective elements that aid water flow. Each of these elements impacts the roof's integrity and, again, its overall longevity.
Flashing
Flashing ensures that water does not seep into crevices and helps to seal areas of the roof. Homeowners will find flashing installed around chimneys, pipes, windows, and other areas vulnerable to leaks.
Gutters
The gutter system encourages water runoff and protects the roof from excessive moisture. Gutters must be cleaned at least twice a year–in fall and spring.
Soffits
This material is located on the underside of roof overhangs. The soffits protect the underside of the roof, blocking out wildlife and debris. Not all roofs include soffits.
Signs that You Need a New Roof
Damage to any part of the roof increases the vulnerability of the structure. For example, problems with flashing can lead to leaks around a chimney or other areas; as water seeps into the roof, it leads to warped and damaged shingles, impacting the integrity and protective properties of the roof.
To better understand the state of the roof, homeowners need to schedule a maintenance assessment with a professional roofing company. This appointment includes a full inspection of the roof to determine any structural issues or areas of repair and concern.
Homeowners often try to assess their roofs. This can be dangerous unless they know how to navigate the roof structure. However, there are a few very obvious signs that visually indicate that a roof needs to be either replaced or repaired:
Missing shingles. A gap created by missing or broken shingles leads to structural vulnerability. While one missing shingle might simply need to be replaced, numerous gaps could indicate an old or structurally unsound roof.
Leaks. When homeowners notice leaks in the home or the attic, the roof is likely the culprit.
Interior water damage. Unidentified water damage in the home (not caused by a plumbing issue) always needs to be investigated.
Massive storm damage. Huge hail pellets batter the roof, leading to extensive damage beyond repair. Homeowners might notice that neighbors also replace their roofs after a major thunderstorm.
Age. Roofing does not endure forever. Depending on the type of roofing material, homeowners might need to replace the roof after 30 years.
House Hunting and Roof Inspections
Individuals buying a new home should never skip an inspection. One of the most important aspects of the home inspection is the roof. Typically, home listings include the age of the roof. Unfortunately, the age of the roof does not indicate its structural integrity.
A reputable home inspector inspects the entire roof, noting any issues and major concerns. Even if the home is listed as "seller to do no repairs" or is sold in "as-is" condition, knowing the roof issues helps new buyers prepare for this cost.
While home inspections are an investment, they also can save buyers heartache, stress, and money.
What are the Signs of a Bad Roofing Job
Home inspectors assess all aspects of the roof, from the flashing to the condition of the shingles. This inspection also helps homeowners understand the signs of a bad roofing job.
The sellers could boast that the roof is new or just replaced. An inspector reviews the quality of the workmanship and determines if that new roof is up to par. Buyers could ask for repairs or renegotiate their offer based on the findings of a home inspection.
Explore and Understand Different Types of Roofing Materials
Homeowners who know that their roof must be replaced now have many options when choosing the material for their new roof. Every roofing material has unique benefits, from budget-friendly asphalt shingles to durable metal. The material type also impacts the longevity of the roof. Use the chart below to learn more about roofing materials and their benefits:
Material | Benefits | Longevity |
Asphalt Shingles | The most budget-friendly material available. | Around 20 years. |
Metal Roofing | Extremely durable. | From two decades to up to 80 years! |
Tile Shingles | Does not rot and not prone to insect infestation | 30 years to two centuries |
Wood Shingles | Unique beauty, more durable than asphalt. | Around 30 years |
Slate Shingles | Very durable, often fire resistant, homeowners can choose different colorways | 50 years to two centuries |
Rubber Roof | Energy efficient, low maintenance | Around 40 to 50 years |
Homeowners who want the most durable and longest-lasting roof should choose slate or tile shingles. These materials last nearly two centuries when well maintained. However, homeowners on a tight budget might opt for standard asphalt shingles; this roofing material is the most popular roof type.
Payment Options for a New Roof
No matter what type of material homeowners choose for their new roof, they should expect to spend more than $5K for a roof replacement. Most roofing companies (including Eureka Contracting and Roofing) offer financing for this project through ProFund. If cost is a concern, contact us to explore financing options and payment plans. A new roof should not lead to financial hardship.
ProFund allows homeowners to get approved for a loan for their new roof fast.
FAQ:
How do you know it’s time to replace your roof?
Homeowners should prepare for a roof replacement when they notice multiple missing shingles, leaks, or water damage or when they know that their roof is near the end of its expected longevity. Extreme storms also lead to extensive roof damage that cannot be repaired; in this situation, a roof replacement might be the best option.
Contact Eureka Contracting and Roofing to schedule a roof inspection and consultation. The team will determine if the roof can be repaired or if replacing it is the best financial option.
What type of roof adds the most value to a home?
More durable roofing materials like slate, tile, and metal may add perceived value to a home, as buyers understand that they will not need to replace the materials for decades (or even centuries).
Is a 20-year-old roof too old?
After 20 years, a standard asphalt shingle roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. However, metal, slate, and tile roofs still have decades of life left. The age of the roof is only one factor that determines if it needs to be replaced. Some types of materials must be replaced more frequently than others.
How many years should a roof last?
The longevity of a roof depends on the roofing material. Asphalt shingle roofs need to be replaced after around 20 years. However, slate and tile roofs can last centuries.
What time of year is best to replace a roof?
Eureka Contracting and Roofing recommends replacing a roof in the fall before major winter weather hits the area.
Schedule a FREE Roof Inspection with Eureka Contracting & Roofing
Roof damage caused by falling leaves and debris must be repaired to hasten further roof damage. Schedule a consultation with Eureka Contracting and Roofing. Contact us today and receive a free quote and recommendations for repairs or a new roof!
Eureka Contracting & Roofing has over 30 years of experience in the construction and insurance industry. We offer free one-on-one consultations to discuss your goals, concerns, and ideas and will provide a free roof evaluation with your best interest in mind. Call 636-938-ROOF or click www.eurekacontracting.com to learn more and schedule your free roof inspection.
About the Author:
Eureka Contracting & Roofing is a top-rated, Veteran-owned, fully licensed, and insured roofing business in Eureka, Missouri. By putting 30 years of experience to work, we ensure that our residential and commercial customer's roofs, gutters, shingles, soffits, and siding are expertly installed, maintained, repaired, or replaced. We make properties better–the proof is in the roof!
