If you are in the process of installing a new roof either because you’re building a house or are renovating one that is older, there might be many aspects that fall into a grey area for you in terms of knowledge. A new roof may need to be installed because it is damaged by environmental factors, there is water seepage due to uprooted or missing shingles, or it’s simply been more than 20 years since any real improvements took place.
1. Legwork And Research
New and better roofing materials are available now than there were 15 years ago. It is important to familiarize yourself with the market and the products available instead of blinding letting a contractor choose. Ask the right questions from friends or relatives that have recently completed or upgraded a house and look online for recommendations from fellow homeowners.
For homeowners looking to lessen their carbon footprint, sustainable practices such as installing photovoltaic panels on their roof might also be of interest. A different kind of base needs to be laid down if the panels are to be installed all over your roof so be sure to do adequate research beforehand. The same applies when you are looking for the perfect roof replacement Gaithersburg contractor as testimonials, past experience, qualifications, and licenses as well as personality are key selling points.
2. Picking Roofing Materials
Picking a roofing material is no small task since it needs to satisfy a number of perimeters from longevity, aesthetic beauty, ease of application, and appropriateness for the environment and temperature. It is vital to bear in mind that roofing materials are only changed up after maybe 20 years each time so making the wrong choice can mean throwing good money after bad for years to maintain the roof.
Slate and asphalt are relatively durable and probably the most popular choices for both roof replacement and roof repair. Wooden and metal shingles are a close second, especially in more modern homes that seem to blend in with wooden and metal textures. Picking materials that will provide optimal insulation so heat or cooling is not lost is important as energy efficiency measures reflect in your energy bills for the years ahead.
3. Be Prepared For Some Organized Chaos
Having a new roof installed is a considerable task so know what to expect for the next several days or maybe weeks. There will be plenty of noise, vibrations will go through the wall and debris will also be a problem. Make sure to move your vehicles from your house and park them somewhere else, notify neighbors and apologize in advance for the noise and instruct your children to not go near any power tools or play in the garden for the duration of the project.
Removing wall art and fragile objects and storing them safely elsewhere is essential to not risk them falling over or breaking when the roof is being installed. Always appoint an area for tools and materials to be stored so they are not stolen or damaged and are easily accessible to the contractors.
