How Much Does Replacing Your Roof Cost?

Your roof is one of the most critical structures in the house. It helps to preserve the integrity of materials both outside and inside the home. 

Each type of roofing material has its own expected lifespan, and replacing a roof can be a significant expense for the owner. Here are some important facts about the cost of replacing your roof.

Points To Keep in Mind When Considering A Roof Replacement

Generally, your home’s roof will last from 20 to 30 years, barring any major storm damage or damage from falling trees, but some materials last even longer than that. 

In some cases, a roofing repair will be enough to hold you over for a few more years, but eventually, you will have to have the materials replaced entirely to protect the structural integrity of your home. 

A new roof will increase the value of your home and is a desirable feature when you put your property onto the real estate market. Replacement roof pricing is generally done by “square,” which is a 10-foot by 10-foot measurement.

Asphalt Roofs

Asphalt roofing is the most economical and is found throughout the United States. Homeowners will pay about $150-$200 per “square” for a replacement. This price includes both the asphalt tiles and roof underlayment material. This type of roof will last about 25 years.

Clay Tile Roofs

Residential roofing using clay tiles is most often found in the southern areas of the United States. It is a durable and attractive material for home construction. It is available in both flat and curved tiles. 

The average cost is for a roof replacement with clay tiles is $500-$800 per square. This type of material is more expensive, but it will also last longer than an asphalt roof, with most lasting about 50 years.

Slate Roofs

Slate is also used for home roofing. It provides a luxurious appearance and will last for over 100 years. You can expect to pay about $600-$1500 per square, or sometimes more in some areas of the country.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofing has become a popular option for the home. Steel roofing panels can be painted to match the house and can be repaired easily. You can expect to pay $300-$800 per square for a steel roof. However, copper roofing is more expensive at $1,500 per square.

As in any major home repair project, it’s always best to get a number of quotes from reputable contractors before signing on the dotted line. A good company with references in your area will complete the job in a reasonable amount of time and at a reasonable price.

Preparing Your Home for Wintertime

Fall is a great time to start thinking about home maintenance and getting your home ready for the cold winter, especially if there are household-related items on your to-do list. 

It would probably be better to get them done as soon as possible instead of braving the cold to get it done later. 

Here are a few items to consider to make sure your home is happy to come wintertime.

Review Your HVAC System

Heating systems can last anywhere from 12 to 15 years, though various variables and circumstances can cause some to fail after about 10 years. Others can make it to 20 years with the right conditions and care. 

A lot depends on how an HVAC system is maintained. Before winter comes, change all of your filters. You can also have a good HVAC contractor review your system. The contractor should check to make sure that your heat will work when you need it to. 

It is better to find out that your HVAC system is broken during warmer weather than to find out that your heater is not working during the frigid winter.

Check Your Roof

Your roof is all that stands between your family and snow, sleet, or rain. You need it to function well to keep your home warm and cozy throughout the winter.

Start by checking your roofline. Your roofline should be straight. If you see dipping, curving, or sagging, this indicates an issue that might require a roof repair. 

During the winter, your roof is exposed to heavy rain or snowfall, which means there’s accumulating weight gathering. This puts extra stress on the roof and can worsen an existing sagging problem, leading to a cave-in in some worst-case scenarios.

Check the chimney flashing for leaks. Your flashing should not be loose or damaged, and any caulking holding it in place should not be cracked or deteriorated. Check for signs of water intrusion around the chimney.

Finally, remove debris and clean out your gutters. Low hanging branches present a danger during heavy snowfall. Remove those for the greatest protection.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Most fires happen during the winter since the furnace is blasting, and people are building fires. Additionally, during the winter, you are likely to have your home closed uptight. This increases the risk of carbon monoxide accumulation.

Always check your chimney flue before starting a fire in the fireplace. This will prevent you from suffocating. Check your smoke detectors to make sure they are working properly and have new batteries as well. If your home does not have a carbon monoxide detector, now would be a good time to get one.

Winter is coming. It can wreak havoc on your home. However, if you take the time to do some preventative maintenance during the summer and fall months, you can prepare your home for winter and lessen the chances of needing a serious repair during the winter months.