If you are about to have a new roof installed, you must follow a few tips to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your property. Although the job is not easy, you can make it as painless as possible by following these tips. First, plan what you’re going to do before the installation starts. Remember that the roof installation process will be noisy, so consider taking extra steps to minimize the noise.
Roofing contractors generally charge around $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot for a residential or commercial project. A typical roof square covers 100 square feet. For that reason, a labor quote for a roof installation may range from $150 to $300. For a larger project, you may consider hiring a roofing contractor offering a warranty. Roofing Companies Durham NC has the proper equipment and correct safety measures. For peace of mind, you’ll be glad you chose to hire a roofer with experience and skill.
When it comes to metal roofing, there are two main types of installation methods. These include clips and through-fastener systems. With the former, the fasteners are hidden behind the metal roofing, while the latter is exposed. The latter requires special care when installing the metal roofing. For example, you must ensure that the valley flashing is made of 28-gauge galvanized metal. The flashing needs to be installed correctly if you want to avoid rust and discoloration.
Before installing shingles, you need to decide which type of roof will cover your home. Once you’ve chosen, you can begin by installing a string line at the base of your peak. This will help to keep the overhangs even. Remember that most homes are not perfectly square, so you may have to make minor adjustments to ensure that your overhangs are even. It would be best if you also remembered that your shingles might need to overlap.
Before you start installing shingles:
- Check the wood sheathing for rot. If you can see rot, replace it.
- Check the tar paper.
- Make sure that it is firmly secured with nails and not staples because staples will tear the roofing felt. If your underlayment is rotten, the shingles will not protect you from leaks.
You should also apply ice shielding and weather guard at valleys and dormers.
Once the old roof is completely removed, you can begin installing a new roof. Some people install multiple layers, but this is a dangerous practice and can cause premature failure of the roof. To avoid this mistake, you should stop the old roof down to the sheathing and rebuild it. The sheathing is a framework of flat panels that supports the roof. As a result, the new shingles are less vulnerable than the old ones.
Another important tip to consider is the time of year. South Florida experiences heavy rainfalls during the summer months and hurricane season. The new roof must be appropriately constructed to prevent damage from high rain. The roofing contractor will also likely install a water barrier around the roof’s edges. These are nailed down for additional stability against strong winds. This extra protection is crucial, and the best time to have your roof installed is when the weather is warm and dry.
The material you choose for your roof will vary depending on the architectural style of your home. Traditional homes are best served with slate or tile roofs, while modern homes should go for wood, metal, or asphalt roofing. If you’re unsure, ask a professional for their opinion. By doing so, you can ensure that your new roof is both durable and attractive. And don’t forget to seal it with a roof sealant. As with any installation, you should never use too much sealant.
After the roofing shingles have been installed, you should install the underlayment. This material should be applied one row at a time and nailed using roofing nails. Make sure the lower row overlaps the next row by about six inches. Make sure you cap both sides of the roof before installing the next row. If you have a tiled roof, you should apply an underlayment that protects against ice. To apply this, remove the adhesive backing of the underlayment.
A good quality asphalt shingle roof can last at least 30 years. Alternatively, you can also opt for a dimensional asphalt shingle roof. EPDM is a good choice if the old roof is still in good condition. It’s cheaper than asphalt shingles and will also offer a good insulation level. The lifespan of this type of roof depends on its thickness and insulation levels. If you don’t want to replace the entire roof, consider fixing the flashing around the roof.