1. Never “Roof Over!”
In years gone by, it was not uncommon for people to simply install new shingles right over the old ones. But time and experience have shown that this is a bad move.
It prevents you from repairing problems that lie below the old shingles, makes it hard to find and fix leaks later on, adds extra weight to your roof, shortens the life of the new shingles since they can’t lie flat, and leads to double-duty tear off and disposal when you finally do get a new roof yet again.
2. Don’t Skimp On “Peripherals”
There’s more to creating the ideal roof barrier than just putting up shingles. You also need quality felt underlayment, flashing in the valleys and around vents and chimneys, and drip edge at the eaves.
When these seemingly “peripheral” elements are skipped, skimped on, or not installed correctly, it can lead to leaks or early “shingle death.” Be sure to find a contractor who does it all and does it right!
3. Inspect & Repair The Roof Deck
Most roof decks suffer at least some damage in the time it takes for a roof replacement job to become necessary. You have to strip the roof bare to see what the condition of the wood is like underneath.
Then the whole decking must be carefully inspected and all rotten or broken boards replaced. Also, all nails must be taken out of the decking so they won’t puncture the new shingles when they go over it.
4. Don’t Neglect Attic Ventilation
To extend the life of your roofing, you need to ventilate the attic. This reduces the temperature build up under your shingles – and excessive overheating can take its toll on them over the years (especially in Florida, “The Sunshine State”).
This means installing attic fans and a whole home ventilation system. It also can help to install a radiant barrier on the attic ceiling and to insulate your attic.
5. Carefully Choose Your Contractor!
Don’t think every roofing contractor operates the same way, because they don’t. Select a professional company with long local experience, many satisfied past customers, that is fully licensed, bonded, and insured, and that knows and follows all local building codes and other regulations.
Your contractor should give you a free inspection and estimate and be willing to coordinate with your homeowners insurance company if necessary. They should also be able to take care of obtaining any necessary permits for you and explain to you how your roofing materials manufacturer’s warranty works.
While there are many other aspects of handling a roof replacement project for your home or business property, these key pieces of advice will get you started in the right direction. Choosing your contractor and roofing material wisely and ensuring the tear off and new installation are done in a complete and correct manner makes all the difference.
For additional assistance in making your roof replacement plans happen – feel free to contact Sheegog Contracting today!
