Shingles, Nails, and Beyond

A residential roof replacement project is an inevitability if a house stands long enough. Homeowners should have some understanding of these four basic issues before they discuss their needs with residential roof replacement service providers.

How Is a Roof Replacement Done?

The goal for this sort of job is to renew the roof. Contractors will strip off all of the existing materials, such as shingles, roofing felt, flashing, and drip edge. When that part of the project is done, there should be bare decking.

If there are any problems with the decking, some repairs may have to be performed. Generally, if you haven't seen leaks or other signs of damage, though, there is a good chance the residential roof replacement services professionals will be able to use the existing decking as a base. They'll apply fresh felt and drip edge, and then flashing and shingles will be installed, too.

Differences From Re-Roofing

A replacement effort is different from re-roofing work because it represents something of a reboot for the roof. When contractors re-roof homes, they simply lay new materials over existing materials.

When Is a Replacement Necessary?

Most roofs with asphalt shingles can stand an accumulation of several layers of materials. There will eventually come a point where the weight of so much asphalt on the roof is a bad idea because it can threaten a collapse. Folks who like in warmer climates may be able to push this as far as 5 or 6 layers, but those who live in regions that get lots of snow may only be able to go two or three layers deep.

Notably, replacement work should be done once the existing shingles begin to show extensive damage. If they're cracked and falling away, layer over them can simply provide a place for moisture to collect.

Also, nearly all non-asphalt materials can't be layered. This includes wood, slate, and tile shingles.

Time and Costs

If the job simply requires removing materials and putting down a fresh layer, you're probably looking at one to two days of work. Any repairs that need to be done will add a couple of days to the project. The slope of the roof may also present problems because additional equipment and precautions might be necessary.

Costs will typically run between $5,349 and $10,686. Dealing with a larger roof area or any complex features, such as eaves and dormers, can add some expenses.