Roofs are long-term investments that will affect the value of your home. As such, time and careful consideration is required when you are planning you roof project. The types of materials used is one thing to keep in mind but equally important is hiring a qualified contractor. The key to this is to ask the right questions.
- Are they certified installers and covered under the warranty plan of the roofing product?
- Are they fully licensed in your area to perform roofing work?
- Are they adequately insured for your protection?
- Do they have a proven track record for providing quality roofing?
- Do they treat the roof as an integrated system?
Roofing materials vary so when you are deciding which product to use, consider the overall style and look of your house that will fit in with the rest of the neighbourhood. Ask your contractor to provide locations they have completed for examples. For a comparison of different roof materials, click here.
Beyond the aesthetics, a good roof is well ventilated and insulated. This will reduce heat build-up, moisture and condensation, weather infiltration and ice dam build-up. Poor ventilation can ruin your insulation, destroy shingles, and raise your energy bills.
Waterproofing underlayments (ice & water shield) should always be used in valleys, on ridges, at eves and around chimneys and skylights. On low pitch roofs, the entire roof should be covered with ice and water shield prior to installation of shingles.
One thing to ask your contractor about is warranty coverage against material defects as compared to labour defects.
Reroofing signs to look out for:
- leakage in attic after wind/rain
- blistering and/or peeling of interior and/or exterior paint
- stains on interior ceilings and walls and/or mildew growth
- decay of roof shingles, sheathing, and/or siding
- missing, cracked or curled shingles
- dark/dirty-looking areas on your roof
- excessive energy costs
As an added energy saving bonus, if you are reroofing, consider installing solar panels. It is more cost effective to install solar panels when you are already renovating rather than it being the stand-alone project.
For more on this please read, Shell Busey’s article.
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