When you own a home there seems to always be something that needs to be replaced. Hot water tanks, windows, flooring and roofing can be quite expensive but necessary items that homeowners will have to pay out for when they wear out. Since the roof is the crowning glory to your home, you have to make sure it is installed properly, using quality materials so that it works to its best potential for years to come. But how do you start trying to calculate how much a new roof will cost?
There are a few factors that go into determining how much a new roof will cost. First is how big is your existing roof? If it has skylights, chimneys or any other structural details on it, it will cost more to replace. Another thing to consider is if the roof is structurally sound enough to withstand the roofing material that you have chosen. Some roofs just can’t handle slate or clay tile without expensive underpinning or a whole new stronger roof deck installed. This all adds to the cost.
But by far the largest cost in a new roof is the materials that you have selected. Asphalt shingles are the best bet economically but what if you have your heart set on wood shake or a metal roof? Thankfully, a lot of roofers will come out to your home to discuss your options with you before you choose to buy from them. They will guide you into choosing the best options for your home taking things such as the weather and the size of the roof into consideration. If you are in an area that sees a lot of snow and high winds in the winter and long hot summers with frequent storms then the choice of materials will be different than if you live in a dry, hot climate year ’round.
An experienced roofer can also tell you how long it will take for them to finish the job. The faster they can get done the cheaper it will be for you. If you don’t like the estimate that the first company has come up with then by all means ask another company for their opinion. You want the job done properly with the best materials possible for the best price possible and on your schedule.
The best course of action is to ask neighbours and friends for the roofing company that they used. Word of mouth is the best way to get the best roofer for you. Materials, size of the roof and obstacles on the roof will all factor into the price that you will pay, but getting the right roofer is also key.
