When it comes to a roof replacement, there’s no denying that this is one of the biggest home improvement projects any homeowner can take on. While getting a new roof is exciting and at some point, much needed, it can also be a bit stressful. Here’s why.

For starters, there are so many seemingly small details to consider that can end up playing a huge role in the success of your roof replacement project. And if you’re considering getting a new roof, there are probably a million questions going through your mind right now.

How do you find quality roofers who won’t let all your money go down the drain? Which materials should you choose? Can you go for a different type of material this time around?

But don’t worry. These questions are perfectly normal. After all, your new roof is supposed to protect you and your family for a long time to come. How could you not put a lot of thought into it?

Our experts at Fortified Roofing bring you all the answers you’re looking for, plus a lot more to consider. We’ve rounded up some major dos and don’ts of having your roof replaced to make the entire process that much easier for you.

Here’s what you should keep in mind.

What Are the Biggest Dos of a Roof Replacement?

• DO make sure that your home is ready for the magnitude of this project. After all, there’s going to be an entire team of contractors walking on your roof. You should be prepared for some shaking and maybe a little vibration inside your home. This is why we recommend that you remove all the pictures from your walls, as well as all your fragile belongings, and put them somewhere safe before the project commences.

• DO consider going for different material this time around. Did you know that you can easily opt for a completely different material the second time around? It is by no means necessary to replace your existing roof with the exact same material, unless, of course, that’s what you want. Work with your contractor to find out more about your options, taking your needs, wishes, and budget into consideration.

• DO make sure that you got the materials you’ve paid for. When the materials get delivered to your home, don’t think twice about inspecting them to make sure they’re exactly what you requested. It is always smart to double-check that you’re getting your money’s worth.

• DO consider an added layer. Sometimes, adding a second layer of shingles or reroofing can be a great solution for your roof and your budget. Be sure to check with your roofer to see whether this is doable and the right choice for you.

• DO pay attention to wind and fire ratings. A lot of roofing materials come with ratings that show how resistant to wind and fire they are. Not all manufacturers choose to submit their materials for this testing, but we urge you to consider this aspect before landing on the final material for your home.

• DO request a detailed estimate. You should always be provided with an exact estimate that includes materials needed for the project, time, labor, and an outlined start and finish date. And make sure to get it all in writing.

• DO consider the weather. It’s very important to choose a roofing material that is optimal for your region, as severe weather can take a toll on your property. The goal is to have your roof remain durable and last a long time, so considering your local climate is always a safe bet.

• ●      DO go for an aesthetically appealing look. Your roof is likely to last anywhere between 20 – 50 years, depending on the material, so it would be wise to go for one that will maximize your curb appeal, as well. You can discuss the color and style options with your contractor so that you’re left with a strong, durable, and gorgeous roof over your head.

What Are the Biggest Don’ts of a Roof Replacement?

• DON’T neglect to check your contractor’s credentials. The smartest way to know whether a roofer is reliable and worth hiring is by asking for their credentials! Simply check out what their previous clients have to say about them and make your decision based on your findings.

• DON’T fall for storm chasers’ scams. As great as it sounds, there’s no such thing as a free roof. Everything has a cost. Storm chasers are known to swarm an area recently hit by a heavy storm and go around promising speedy home repairs for a significantly lower cost. Most commonly, they offer to waive your deductible, in which case you should steer clear, as that is considered insurance fraud.

• DON’T take any shortcuts. Don’t allow yourself to be tempted to go for a lower-quality roof simply because it costs a little less. When it comes to an investment as big as your roof, you should never cut corners, as it will only end up costing you significantly more in the future. Your roof will keep you and your family safe for many years to come, which is why all the decisions you make should reflect that.

• DON’T add layers without checking the structural integrity of your roof first. Before you start making any decisions regarding multi-layer roofing, make sure to have your roof’s structural integrity tested. An added layer means a bigger weight load, so it’s important to take all the precautions before making your decision. That way, you will have great peace of mind in the long run.

In Need of Roof Replacement Services?

Now that you’ve carefully gone over all the major dos and don’ts of having your roof replaced, hopefully, you will have an easier time making the right decisions.

When faced with any type of roofing dilemmas, the best thing you can do is get in touch with your trusted local roof replacement contractors who will guide you throughout the process, from start to finish.

At Fortified Roofing, we are always at your disposal for an honest and detailed estimate, as well as for top-tier roofing services. Give us a call anytime and see what we can do for you!

Choosing a new roof for your home can sometimes be a time-consuming process because you want your new roof to meet all of your needs and wishes. It has to be high-quality, long-lasting, durable, beautiful, and preferably low-maintenance.

And with winter fast approaching, you want to be extra careful and completely sure that your new roof will also withstand all the harsh weather, freezing temperatures, and snow. You want it to provide you with complete comfort, safety, and peace of mind.

Luckily, there is a roofing solution that checks all of those boxes and that will undoubtedly prove to be the best choice for your new roof replacement this winter. And that solution is metal roofing.

And while roof installations are not very typical or frequent in winter, this might just be the best time for you. Your roof might also be very damaged and unable to survive another winter.

In this case, a roof replacement will be inevitable and here are 6 top reasons why you should choose a metal roof.

Watertight Roof That Minimizes Risks of Leaks

Keeping your home dry and leak-free during the winter is one of the top priorities for any homeowner. You wouldn’t want your roof to start leaking in the middle of the winter or a snowstorm.

And a metal roofing will protect you precisely from that. It will give you the exact peace of mind you need and ensure that water doesn’t reach beneath the roof and inside your home.

Metal roofing is installed in the form of panels that usually interlock, thus minimizing the risks of any water penetrating inside and causing unwanted leaks and water damages.

Cool Roof That Reduces Heating Costs

Many homeowners might already know that metal roofing is a type of cool roofing that very efficiently reflects the sun and the heat in the summer. It keeps your home nice and cool, decreases the need for air conditioning, and lowers your energy bills.

But what some may not know is that metal roofing is equally efficient and beneficial when it comes to heating and winter energy bills. Your metal roof will actually function as an added insulator that will prevent the warm air from escaping outside through the roof.

It will allow the heated air inside your home to circulate more naturally and ensure it stays inside. That way, your heating costs will be significantly cut, as you will not have to crank up the heating.

Lightweight Roof That Can Handle the Extra Snow Load

Generally, metal roofs are known to be lightweight, which means that they can be installed on nearly all properties without compromising the structural stability of those properties.

But when it comes to winter, the question also arises whether the snow that accumulates on the roof will jeopardize the stability of the roof and your entire home. And the answer is no. Since metal roofs are already lightweight, the additional snow load that can happen during winter should not pose any serious issues when the roof is properly installed.

However, it is always recommended to have the snow professionally removed from the roof if it accumulates excessively. 

Ice Dam-Resistant Roof That Sheds Snow Easily

Another great benefit of metal roofing is that the aforementioned excessive snow accumulation is actually very rare. In most cases, you will not see a big pile of snow building up on your metal roof because snow, as well as ice or water, will easily slide off of this type of material.

So apart from avoiding snow accumulation, you will also avoid ice dam formation on the roof. Ice dams usually form from the snow that melts and then refreezes. But with the snow sliding off on its own, ice dams are much less likely to form.

Durable Roof That Stands Strong Against Harsh Weather

When it comes to severe and unfriendly weather, metal roofing is your best bet at staying fully protected. It will very successfully hold up against snow, ice, hail, and very high winds such as hurricanes.

Its great durability guarantees you a roofing solution that will last for a long time and that will not be susceptible to rot, leaks, cracks, warps, dents, and other similar damages. Therefore, you will be able to enjoy this winter without worrying about roof damages and leaks or the repairs that you will have to do in the spring.

A metal roof may very well be the last roof you will ever have to install on your home, as its life expectancy can reach up to 50 years. It will be a one-time, high-quality investment that will pay off very quickly and require very little to no maintenance and additional investments.

Easy-To-Install Roof That Doesn’t Mind Cold Temperatures

When it comes to certain roofing materials, cold weather can pose issues and restrictions on their installation. Shingles, for example, may become more brittle in the cold, adhesives may require more effort to be applied, and similar.

This does not necessarily mean that shingles cannot be installed during winter but simply that it may take longer and that much more precaution will have to be taken.

Metal roofing, on the other hand, is not affected by cold temperatures to that extent, or at all. Metal roofing usually comes in the form of panels that are sturdy, resistant, and unaffected by the cold. An experienced roofer, such as our team at Fortified Roofing, will have no problem installing it quickly and efficiently.

Get Your Metal Roof Installed Fast

Now that you know the many ways in which you and your home can benefit from having a metal roof during winter, but also year-round, why not get one installed yourself! If your roof is due for a replacement and you want a new one that will provide you with undeniable protection and cost benefits, then metal roofing is a perfect choice.

Call your best local roof replacement contractors at Fortified Roofing and we’ll make sure you, too, reap all the benefits of metal roofing this winter.