You know you need a new roof, but you don’t know how to go about getting one. Most homeowners need to replace a roof at least once in their lifetime because the average roof lasts about 20 years. This guide explains what to do when your roof needs to be replaced so that you can conquer this task with confidence.
Temporarily Protect or Repair Roof Leaks
If your roof is leaking, you need to protect it right away. A small amount of water damage can turn into a widespread disaster quite quickly. You can tack a tarp down for now to temporarily shield your roof, but be careful if you do this yourself. Your roofing company may have a quick fix you can use until you’re ready for roof replacement. Contact them to explain your situation and evaluate your options.
Learn more: What to Do If Your Roof Is Leaking.
Get an Estimate for a New Roof
One of the first steps in roof replacement is getting an estimate for the job. The roofer will go over the roof to determine if you need new shingles, decking, flashing, etc. Then, they will discuss different types of roofing materials you could choose from. They will take all those factors into consideration to personalize a replacement quote for you. If you’re getting a new roof through an insurance claim, you’ll still need an estimate for the project.
McLean Roofing and Siding offers free roof replacement estimates in Southeast Michigan. Call (248) 524-1111 to schedule an appointment.
File an Insurance Claim Right Away (If Applicable)
If insurance is involved, you may want to get on that right away. The claims process may take a while, depending on your insurance company. Thankfully, we can handle a lot of the hassle for you to get your roof replaced quickly and easily. If you’re not in our area, check for a roofing company that can coordinate with your insurance company to take some of the stress off your plate.
Schedule Your Roof Replacement
Once you’ve looked over your material options and selected the setup for your roof, it’s time to schedule a replacement! A good roofing company can usually accommodate your schedule to work at the best time for you. They may drop the materials off a day in advance and complete the replacement over 1-2 days, depending on the size of the roof. The workers will clean up along the way to keep nails and debris out of your yard, and they’ll haul away the old roofing materials when the time comes.
Quick Tips to Extend the Life of Your Roof
Want to make the most of your new roof? Make sure your attic insulation is of the proper thickness. This will help prevent ice dams in the winter, which can put unnecessary weight on your shingles.
Another way to extend the life of your roof is to trim back overhanging tree branches. These branches drop debris onto the roof and give animals a reason to go across your roof. Trimming the branches back can reduce the wear on your roofing and prevent your gutters from clogging.
The best way to get a long-lasting roof is to choose a qualified, licensed roofing company for installation. The experienced roofers at McLean Roofing and Siding would be happy to assist you. Call us today to schedule your roof replacement consultation.