Once you have decided to replace your roof, the next step will be to search for reputable roofing contractors in Greencastle, IN. It is important to note that not all roofing contractors are the same, and it is recommended that you do your due diligence on any contractor that you are interested in working with. Many homeowners can become overwhelmed with all of the decisions that come along with replacing their roofs: finding the right contractor, picking the best roofing material, staying in budget, etc. In this article, we will seek to alleviate some of your stress by offering you information that will help to make your roof replacement process run more smoothly. If you have any specific concerns or questions, feel free to give our knowledgeable staff a call today.
When is it time to Replace Your Roof?
In some instances of roof damage a full replacement is not needed, though this should be assessed by a professional roofing contractor in Greencastle, IN before you make a final determination. Listed below, you will find some of the more common reasons that a roof should be replaced.
- Leaky Roof: A Leaking roof is a common issue, especially for older roofs. If your roof has sprung a leak, it is best to pick up the phone and schedule your free estimate with a roofing contractor instead of just catching the water with a bucket during each storm. Though the leak may seem small and harmless, it could lead to other major issues and eventually compromise the integrity of your roof if not taken care of in a timely manner.
- Roof is Older in Age: If your roof has already reached or surpassed its estimated lifespan, it is important for you to at minimum have it inspected by a reputable roofing contractor, as there may be damage that is not easily spotted by the untrained eye. In addition, if you notice that your neighbors are getting their roofs replaced at an unusually high rate, it may be time to check on your roofing system as well.
- Damage From Severe Weather: In some cases, your roof may just need a few repairs after a major storm, in other cases, you will need a full replacement.
Making the decision to replace your roof will have a major impact on your current and future finances as well as the overall safety of your home. Once you have made the decision to repair or replace your roof, the next step is finding the best roofing contractor in Greencastle, IN to complete your specific job.
How to Find a Roofing Contractor
Though there are many roofing contractors advertising for your business, not all of them will be the right fit for your specific project. When deciding on a contractor, it is best to ask your neighbors and/or relatives for referrals. If this is not possible, then the next best option is to schedule two to three free estimates with roofing contractors that have good reviews. In addition to the reviews, it is imperative that you ask each potential contractor to provide you with references as well as proof of insurance. Making the decision on which contractor to work with should come down to the following: experience, professionalism, referrals/reviews, and budget.
Benefits of Replacing Your Current Roof
Many people regard a roof replacement as an expense, and while that may true in the short term, roofs are actually quite the long term investment. Not only does a new roof increase the average home resale value by $12,000, but it can also help to decrease your utility bills. Since a new roof does have a major impact on your finances, it is important to spend the necessary time to choose the roofing material that will be the best fit for your situation. Though you may be tempted to choose a roofing material that has a lower initial cost, you should also look at the overall benefits that a roof can provide over a span of years. Each material has its own set of properties as well as unique advantage and/or disadvantages.
Choosing the Best Roofing Material
Roofing materials come in a wide variety. From the affordable wooden shingles to the more expensive slate roofs, each material has a different estimated lifespan. Listed below, you will find some examples of the more popular roofing materials and what their expected lifespan is. It is important to remember that the estimated lifespan is only valid if you maintain your roof, regularly clear debris, and ensure that your gutters are free-flowing and not causing any standing water.
- Asphalt: 10 – 15 years
- Steel and Aluminum: 30 – 50 years
- Slate: 75 – 150 years
- Rubber: 40 -60 years
While there are certainly many occasions that a less expensive and shorter-lasting material will be the best fit, it is always best to consult with your chosen roofing contractor about which material will provide you with the greatest overall return on investment.
What to Expect During Construction
Once you have decided on your contractor as well as your roofing material, construction will take place shortly thereafter. Before construction begins, your contractor will ensure that the construction site has the proper permits from the city government. It will typically take 1 to 3 days for your roof to be completed, barring any inclement weather or unknown damages. You can expect to hear construction level noises throughout the day, but you can certainly stay at home during the roofing process if you prefer. It is recommended that you make arrangements for pets or younger children that may have sensitive ears as well as alert your neighbors of the impending construction. If you have more questions or would like to learn about the professional roofing contractors at Jackson Contracting, give us a call today to speak with our knowledgeable staff.