What Every Homeowner Should Know Before Replacing Their Roof

Replacing your roof is going to be a major project, and you don’t want anything to go wrong. A few seemingly minor mistakes could result in huge city fines or damage to the structure of your home. Here is a look at four things that you should know before having any work carried out on a residential roof.

Replacing or Repairing a Roof Requires a Permit

You might be surprised to hear that you can’t work on your roof unless you have a permit from your city. Most minor cosmetic changes don’t require a permit, but all major renovations that alter the structure of a home must be approved by a city inspector. Those repairs also need to be carried out by a contractor who is licensed and fully insured. When interviewing a roofing contractor, you should ask for their license number and proof of insurance.

Not All Roofing Materials Are the Same

All roofing materials have their own pros and cons, and that means you will need to do some research. Composite shingles are the most popular option in many areas, but they don’t last as long as other materials. For those who want a roof with a long lifespan, slate tiles will most likely be the best option. A good roofing contractor should be able to help you choose a material that fits your budget and the local environment.

Getting a Warranty Is Vital

A new roof is one investment that should always be covered by a warranty. In addition to the manufacturer’s warranty, you should also have a workmanship warranty through the roofing contractor. The workmanship warranty will cover issues such as cosmetic problems and leak repairs. Those warranties typically last for at least 10 years, but you might be able to upgrade to a 30-year warranty depending on which contractor you choose.

You Might Need to Replace the Trusses as Well

If you are going to upgrade to a slate or clay tile roof, then you need to contact a company such as Prefab Technology Pty Ltd to see if your trusses are strong enough. Those roofing materials are much heavier, and the trusses might not be able to handle any extra weight. Luckily, trusses are very easy to replace once the roof has been removed, and the costs should be low as long as your home isn’t particularly large.

With an experienced contractor and high-quality materials, your new roof could easily last for 40 years or longer. That is why it is so important to spend a little extra time on the initial planning stages of this major home renovation project.