Is it time for a new roof? Whether due to weather damage or old age, a new roof is a significant investment that can last a lifetime, so it’s essential to go through the process slowly and intentionally.
Below, we’ve detailed the most important considerations before buying a new roof that will set you up for success. Let’s dive right in!
Essential Steps to Follow Before Purchasing a New Roof
Think Through the Materials and Design
Choosing your new roof’s materials and color is the most exciting part of preparing for a replacement, but sifting through all the options can be overwhelming! Some popular choices include asphalt shingles, metal roofing, slate tiles, and wood shakes.
JD Hostetter & Associates can help you determine which materials will complement your home’s architectural style and are best suited for the Indianapolis climate.
Check Local Building Codes
Local building codes often require (and restrict) certain roof materials and installation techniques. A trusted, local contractor will have a deep knowledge of these codes and, when in doubt, can help you research to ensure your new roof abides by local regulations.
Indianapolis allows new roofing to be installed over existing roofing and existing flashing to be reinstalled—but this isn’t the case everywhere. And if you live in one of Indianapolis’ historic districts, pay careful attention to ensure your new roof maintains the defining architectural features, materials, and details of your historic home.
Speak with a Certified Contractor
Before proceeding with your quest for a new roof, finding a trusted, certified contractor who specializes in roof replacement is crucial.
Getting bids from multiple contractors is a brilliant place to start. Choose local contractors with good reviews and several years of experience. Ideally, a roofer with a manufacturer’s certification will ensure a precise, long-lasting installation. At JD Hostetter, we are an Emerald Premium Malarkey Roofing Contractor!
Ask for each contractor’s cost breakdown of labor, materials, and warranties. Remember, the “right” bid usually falls somewhere in the middle. You don’t want to spend an outrageous amount, but you don’t want to skimp on the quality of materials or labor. What you don’t pay for now, you’ll likely end up paying for later.
Discuss the Scope of the Installation
When collecting bids from contractors, discuss the scope of work. Can you place new shingles over your old shingles? Will the entire roof need to be removed? Does your roof need to be replaced, or just a part of it? How long will the roof replacement project take?
These questions correlate with the labor involved in a roof replacement, drastically impacting the budget. It’s crucial to grasp this before proceeding with (and budgeting for!) a roof replacement.
Not to mention—roof replacement can be noisy. While it’s usually safe to remain in your home during a roof project, the loud noises can sometimes disrupt small children, elderly family members, and pets. If you spend most of the day at home and think your family might be affected, you might prefer to make alternative living arrangements during a roof replacement.
Create a Home Renovation Budget
After speaking with a few contractors and getting a better idea of how much you’ll need to spend on your roof replacement, it’s wise to create a budget for the project.
If you’re planning to save for your roof replacement each month, consider how much you’ll need to set aside from each paycheck to reach the total estimated in the bid. Remember to save extra funds for unexpected expenses during the replacement that aren’t factored into the bid, like hidden structural problems or moisture damage.
Now is also a good time to explore financing options. Many contractors offer interest-free payment plans, so discuss this when collecting bids if you’d like to break up payments for your new roof. Personal bank loans or refinancing your mortgage are other financing options to consider.
Review the Warranties
Finally, before saying “yes” to a contractor and a particular roof brand or material, read through all the fine print of the manufacturer and workmanship warranties. Choosing a roofing material with a transferable warranty that covers materials and labor for as long as possible is ideal!
Count on Reliable Roof Replacement from JD Hostetter & Associates
Looking for a dependable, local contractor who checks all the boxes and can guarantee a smooth process and long-lasting roof replacement? Request a roofing estimate from our team at JD Hostetter & Associates!
