How to buy a new roof
From LoveToKnow Buy
Is it just about time to replace that old, ugly, leaking, no-good roof that’s hanging over your head? If you answered yes, be prepared to shell out some major money, for skimping on installing a new roof is something you definitely don’t want to do. Why? Because having one installed is a long, arduous process, and if you go cheap on it you could be doing it over again sooner than you’d like. Check out the advice below on things to know when you’re thinking of having a new roof laid down.
Tips on buying a new roof
- First thing you should know is what kind of roof you want. Roofs are generally divvied up into two categories: low slope and steep slope. Low slope roofs rise up vertically four inches for each twelve inches of horizontal run. Roofing that rises greater than the four-in-twelve slope is steep roofing. Know that low slope materials have a watertight membrane, while steep slope are water shedding. What does this mean? It basically means they will leak unless they’re applied on a slope of adequate steepness.
- You will need to measure the square footage of the roof area. This means measuring the surface area of the actual roof (from the top), not the living space below the roof!
- Decide on which materials you want to use. You should make this decision based on how much is in your roofing budget, as well as the design of your roof (see #1).
- Now it’s time to hit the home improvement stores to look at and compare various roofing materials. I advise you to compile a list of questions about roofing materials that you can ask the professionals at the home improvement center you choose to go to (Home Depot is a good place). Asphalt, wood, and slate are going to be—most likely—your three biggest choices. Know that more expensive asphalt shingles have a long and dependable lifetime guarantee…
- Next up is talking with the roofing contractor you’ve chosen to lay down the roof. You should be sure he/she has experience with lying down the type of roofing you’d like put down. How do you find a good roofing contractor? Check advertisements in your Yellow Pages, and consult with friends and co-workers—see if they have any good recommendations for you.
Caution
Try and opt for the best optin that you can afford, even if it seems a little expensive at that moment. Do remember that cheaper alternatives will ultimately cost you more in the long term because they will have a shorter lifespan and you will incur periodic repair and maintenance costs.
Where to buy a new roof
The Home Depot - You can shop for roof tiles online at one of the most popular home repair superstores in America. You can also locate the Home Depot nearest you using the Store Locator tool.
ServiceMagic Home Improvement - Allows you to search for a roofing contractor in your area. Includes listings for asphalt shingle, wood shake, tile, metal, natural slate, and flat, foam, and single ply roofing contractors.
RoofSmith - Offers commercial and residential roofing services company offers users the chance to get a free on-site roofing estimate from prescreened contractors.
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