Do I need a new Roof?

It depends: An older roof can cost you thousands of dollars in moisture damage or poor efficiency, in which case you should cut your losses with a new roof. Water intrusion weakens your home’s structural integrity, fosters mold growth, and ruins all your cherished belongings. 

Are you looking to improve your home with a better roof? The solution isn’t exactly cheap (like any major home improvement), but it is surprisingly simple and hassle-free with some help from the pros.

A new roof prevents leaks, protects your home, and improves its value. On average, a new roof adds $12,000 to $15,000 to your home’s resale value. This investment protects both your family and your peace of mind. 

3 Reasons You Should Consider a New Roof

A new roof is more than just shingles. It’s an investment in your home’s future and your family’s well-being. Let’s dive into the top three reasons why a new roof can be a wise decision for your home.

Protection and Peace of Mind

An aging roof can disrupt your life with sudden weak points. Water damage can wreak havoc, ruining your belongings and posing health risks. Mold can become a concern, as it thrives in damp conditions, ultimately lowering indoor air quality. 

A new roof better protects against the elements. If you opt for durable materials, you can shield your home from rain, snow, hail, and high winds. This peace of mind is priceless—you can rest easy knowing that everything in your home is safe and dry!

Increased Home Value and Curb Appeal

Let’s admit it: a new roof is a big investment, but if needed, it pays off handsomely. According to this source, roofing replacements have an average ROI of 48.9%.

Are you considering selling your home in the next five years? A fresh roof instantly boosts your home’s curb appeal. Potential buyers are attracted to well-maintained properties, and the roof makes a big first impression. A good roof with many years left in it can be a major selling point, giving you a leg up in the fierce real estate market.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

A new residential roof can significantly enhance a home’s energy efficiency, primarily through improved insulation and reflective materials. Modern roofing systems often incorporate advanced insulation techniques that minimize heat transfer between the interior and exterior of the home.

A well-insulated roof helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the strain on heating and cooling systems. This contributes to a more comfortable living environment and translates into lower energy bills, as homeowners can enjoy substantial savings over time by relying less on HVAC systems.

Choosing the Right Roofing Material

Selecting the right roofing material for the replacement is an important decision. Factors like budget, climate, aesthetics, and personal preferences all come into play.

Asphalt Shingles

A roof with newly installed shingles

Asphalt shingles are a popular choice due to their affordable price and diverse range of colors and styles. If maintained correctly, they may last 20 to 30 years. Luckily, asphalt shingles are relatively easy to install and maintain.

However, asphalt shingles tend to have a much shorter lifespan than other roofing materials and may need more frequent repairs.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are a great choice for their durability and longevity. Depending on the type and conditions, they can last between 40 and 80 years. They are also highly resistant to the elements, such as fire, wind, and hail damage. 

Metal roofs can also be surprisingly energy efficient since they reflect sunlight and keep your home cooler in the summer. Admittedly, they can be initially more expensive than asphalt shingles. However, their long lifespan and low maintenance costs will offset the higher upfront investment.

Other Options

While less common, other roofing materials include:

  • Tile: Durable and easy to customize, but can be heavy and expensive.
  • Slate: Highly durable and long-lasting, but also very heavy and expensive.
  • Wood Shingles: Natural-looking and unique, but need more maintenance and are susceptible to fire damage.

Ultimately, the best roofing material for your home depends on your specific needs and priorities. You’ll need to consider factors like your budget, the local climate, your home’s architectural style, and the level of maintenance you can handle. That little extra effort to find what works for you can be worth it.

Signs You Need a New Roof

Ignoring a leaky roof is a costly mistake. Not only does it damage your home’s interior, but it also signals underlying issues with your roofing system. Identifying the signs of a failing roof early on can help you prevent further damage and protect your investment. 

Here’s what to look out for:

  • Age: Most roofs last between 20 to 30 years. If your roof is nearing this age, it may be time for a replacement. Shingles that curl, buckle, or crack are nearing the end of their lifespan. 
  • Leaks or Moisture: Water infiltration can lead to structural damage, mold, and mildew growth. Look for stains on ceilings or walls — key signs of water leaks. 
  • Sagging Roof: A sagging roof suggests structural problems or water damage and demands immediate attention. This is usually caused by rotten shingles or wood.
  • Energy Efficiency: An increase in energy bills might indicate that the roof is no longer insulating your home effectively.

The Importance of Professional Installation

Roofing is a physically demanding and potentially hazardous job. In fact, Roofers have one of the highest rates of injuries and illnesses of all occupations. Falls pose the biggest risk, so it’s best not to DIY unless you know what you are getting into.

Professional roof installers are trained and equipped to work safely on roofs. They use proper safety gear to avoid the risk of accidents. If you are concerned about safety, the wisest choice is to hire a pro.

Plus, professional contractors can guarantee quality materials and installation. They know what products to rely on, and stick to industry best practices so you can enjoy a long-lasting and durable roof. With this attention to detail, you can expect fewer future repairs and a longer lifespan of your investment.

Proper installation will also help you with warranty coverage. Most reputable roofing manufacturers require professional installation to validate their warranties. That means they won’t cover any damages if you install it yourself. Hiring a pro gives you the peace of mind that comes with a warranty.

Lastly, hiring professionals also gets rid of any liability risks that come with improper installations. Accidents or property damage resulting from DIY roof repairs can have serious legal and financial consequences. 

Finding a Reliable Roofing Contractor

Research and Reviews

Look through online reviews and testimonials to learn more about the contractor’s reputation and customer satisfaction. You’ll find these on online platforms like Google My Business, Yelp, and HomeAdvisor. Prompt and helpful replies to negative replies are also a plus. 

Ask Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask the contractor questions to learn more about their experience, the materials they use, their installation process, and their warranty policies. You can also ask about their cleanup procedures and how they handle any issues that may arise during the project. The last thing you want is a dispute and hidden costs after completing the work.

Trust Your Gut

Ultimately, you should opt for a contractor you feel comfortable with and trust. A reputable roofer will be transparent, communicative, and focused on your satisfaction. If you see red flags like delayed communications, unclear fee structure, and unrealistic promises, it might be good to look for other options.

Boost Your Home’s Value with a New Roof Today

Investing in a new roof for your home is a wise decision for any homeowner. It has many benefits, like enhanced protection, peace of mind, and even a boost in your home value and energy savings. After reading our guide, you can select the right roofing materials and hire a reputable contractor. 

A long-lasting and durable roof can serve your family for years to come — the key is to work with the right pros. If you’re in Ohio and looking for a reliable roofing company, contact us today to get a free quote.