As with any home improvement project, you need to carefully prepare a budget for your roof replacement. This way, you can set aside the money you need for the project and avoid unnecessary costs that can break the bank. However, no matter how well you research the cost of your project, your roofers may uncover additional expenses beyond your control.
From rotten plywood to code noncompliance, many factors can add to the cost of replacing your roof. Today, we highlight five of them here and share tips on how to avoid going over the budget.
What Are the Unexpected Costs of Replacing Your Roof?
When installing a new roof, it's a good idea to be prepared, especially if you live in an older house. Here are a few things you need to consider when budgeting for your project:
1. Rotten Plywood
The plywood underneath the shingles can become rotten over time due to water exposure. This may also be a result of poor roofing installation. Some homeowners even choose to install new shingles over existing ones instead of tearing off the old materials. Since this is a less labor-intensive way of solving the problem, this is considered a less expensive method. However, this can trap algae and bacteria that are on the original roofing. Not only that, but mold can also thrive in moist areas, which can be extremely toxic to those with medical conditions.
If you have rotten plywood, your roofing contractors will have to replace it, the cost of which can increase your roofing project's total budget. Most contractors also state the price per sheet for new plywood with each customer beforehand. They should also show you all the rotten sheets they removed and are charging you extra to eliminate any disputes.
2. Water Traps
Many homeowners are often unaware of water traps until their roofers work on their roofs. Water traps are a common roofing issue. They are prone to leaks due to runoff areas that direct too much water to one place.
If your roofers find water traps on your roof, take note that they can wear down your shingles and other exterior materials, such as siding or brick. For this reason, they have to mitigate the water traps before they install a new roof. While this can protect your new roof, this can increase the cost of your budget.
3. Seasonal Changes
When it comes to roof repair and replacement projects, the estimate depends on the time and season. However, it's worth noting that many roofers give roofing estimates that are only valid for a limited period because many roofing companies get more work during some seasons than others.
Since demand for roofing work is high in spring and summer, the cost will be typically higher compared to roofing projects done in the cooler months when time is in less demand. As such, the estimate you receive today may not be valid in the next five months. To avoid getting a new quote that may affect your budget, replace your roof within a short time after getting it.
4. Roof Upgrades
If you're selling your home soon, you should consider replacing your roof to increase your home's resale value. To gain more marketable property and attract more home buyers, try investing in efficient roof upgrades. You may want to upgrade to low-maintenance gutters, for instance, or choose a more durable type of roofing underlayment.
Perhaps, you may want to improve your roofing ventilation to improve your home's energy efficiency and boost indoor comfort. No matter the upgrade you want, be sure to include them in your estimate. Otherwise, your roofers will incorporate these upgrades later on since the typical estimate is based on a standard roof replacement.
5. Code Noncompliance Has it been a long time since your roof was last replaced? If so, it was likely built to meet decades-old building codes that no longer apply to new roofing construction. Although this can benefit your home's sustainability and enhance the safety of your property, you need to spend money to bring your roof up to code. However, should you fail to comply with the building codes, your home may be at risk for damage, increasing the likelihood of accidents. You can also be fined by the government if they find your roof doesn't meet the current codes. As such, consult your roofers to ensure your roof is up to date.
Is There Anything You Can Do to Avoid Unexpected Factors When Replacing Your Roof?
While there are no concrete ways to avoid unexpected costs when replacing your roof, there are a few ways you can prevent spending more than you have to:
Leave 15% to 20% of wiggle room in your budget. To avoid breaking the bank when replacing your roof, your roofing contractors recommend 15% to 20% of wiggle room in your budget. If an issue comes up, you can rest easy that you have the money to pay for it.
Book your roofing project in the off-season. If you can put off replacing your roof, try doing it in the off-season. As roofers are busiest during the spring and summer seasons, they raise the prices of labor and materials such as shingles.
Check for leaks regularly. Leaks are hard to spot. In most cases, homeowners only notice leaks until it's too late. To detect leaks early, schedule annual roof inspections. During the inspection, a roofer can examine your roof and perform the necessary repairs should they find damage.
Talk to your roofer. The ideal roofers will be able to let you know of any problems right away. As a homeowner, you should also let them know about your budget constraints early on in the project. Doing so can help your roofers determine the realistic way to reach your desired result.
Replacing your roof is a major investment, which is why you only need to work with a trusted and qualified contractor for the job. At A1 Quality Roofing, Inc., rest assured our team of roofers is up to the task. Whether you need roof repair, replacement or maintenance, we are happy to help. For more information, call us today at (951) 877-4406, or visit our online website to request a free estimate.
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