Measuring Up Effective Roof Replacement Costs

Roofs require replacement after some time, when they become old and less efficient and effective. It is one of the most important decisions that people have to make to improve the quality of their home. Roof replacement will ensure more and better protection to everybody under it. There are many various kinds of roofing materials that will be required for an effective replacement of the roof. They include asphalt, wood, metal, and slate. Here are the steps to follow when replacing a roof:

1. Property Protection 2. Preparation 3. Roof Inspection 4. Sheathing 5. Flashing 6. Shingling

Property Protection

The first important step is to make sure that the entire property is well protected before the actual roof replacement can begin. This process includes sidings, plants, bushes, and walls. Tarps and protection plywood always do a good job at this.

Preparation

If the old shingles are in layers more than one, or if these shingle layers are extensively warped or damaged, it is important to first tear off the old shingle layers and the sheathing and then dispose of them properly. The process should start at the top ridge and work downwards, removing the old nails completely.

Roof Inspection

After the removal of the old shingles, the roof must be inspected thoroughly. Any damage done to the underneath roof board during the shingle removal must be attended to. Any warped, damaged, soft, wet, or rotten wood must be replaced in order to create a strong base for the roofing structure.

Sheathing

Before the laying down of the shingles, the roof should be protected with sheathing. A single layer of tar paper or roofing felt should be rolled out to act as a moisture barrier. Begin the layer at the roof bottom and then add it in horizontal rows making sure there is a slight overlap to prevent leaks. Don't lay down the entire sheathing layer at once — lay it gradually on top of each finished shingle row. The sheathing is attached with galvanized nails, and a double layer should be used along the roof's top ridge line.

Flashing

A thin metal flashing sheet is added to the places with sections of roof joining, around the vents and chimneys, and around other obstructions. After this, a drip edge is installed at the bottom of the roof edge for the protection of the fascia and the wooden structure underneath. Tin snips are used for cutting the metal into appropriate sizes and shapes.

Shingling

Beginning from the bottom of the roof, lay down just one starter course shingle, leaving about an inch for clearing the edge of the roof. Lay down the entire row first before nailing — this makes sure that the shingles are straight. The shingles should be laid in a way that the bottom edge overlaps the vertical cutouts. Working upwards, the shingles are nailed using four nails each. To keep the shingle rows straight, a chalk line cross should be used in the process.

A good roof replacement adds life to the roof and can last longer. Hiring a professional roof replacement contractor will lead to a strong and highly effective roof.