Credit: Aubrey Odom Via Unsplash

A typical asphalt roof only needs to be replaced every 15-20 years, but when the warranty is about to expire — or ominous leaks indicate the roof is no longer keeping the water out — it can be hard to know how to approach such a big maintenance job. What’s a fair price? What materials should you use? How can you find a contractor you can trust?

Replacing a roof is one of the biggest renovations most homeowners will ever have to deal with, in terms of both expense and impact. If the job is done well, it can add value to the home for years to come; if it is done poorly, it can become a significant liability.

If you’ve never replaced your roof before, but need to do so before next winter, here are three things you need to take into consideration as you start planning the installation.

1. Budget

Given how much of an investment a new roof is, determining a sensible and realistic budget early on is essential. Removing the old shingles and replacing them with a completely new set can cost anywhere from $3.50 to $7.50 per square foot, depending on where you live, or between $6,000 and $10,000 on average for the whole roof.

But this is only if you are going for basic 3-Tab shingles, good for up to 25 years. If you want a cedar shake roof that will last up to 50 years, the entire job may cost as much as $20,000, so figuring out what your budget is will help determine what kind of materials you can afford.

2. Materials

Most modern roofs use asphalt shingles, the most common of which are 3-Tab and laminates (laminates are sturdier, lasting five to ten years longer). In addition to asphalt shingles, you may also want to consider:

  • Steel tiles
  • Aluminum shingles
  • Cedar shakes
  • Slates

While these premium materials cost more, they also last a lot longer and look much nicer. If you want to invest in your property and improve your curb appeal, it can be worth it to spend more on the project to get a better return.

3. Contractor

Budget and materials are an important starting point, but which contractor you hire is the decision that will make or break your installation. If you want to get the repairs done right you need to find a professional roofing company that has the experience to anticipate problems, and the commitment to excellence that will ensure no corners are cut.

Every year, thousands of homeowners lodge complaints about roofing contractors who have overbilled, delivered inferior work, or failed to get the work done on time, so read reviews from previous customers, shop around for contractors, and get as many itemized quotes as you can. Being diligent in your research and finding roofers in Toronto who can provide lasting solutions will pay off in the long run. In the Atlanta area, you´ll see that Team Roofing is recognized for its qualified and professional work.

If you plan it right, there is no reason why re-roofing your house needs to be an anxiety-inducing project. Giving yourself time to budget, explore materials, and find a contractor you can trust will ensure that every stage of planning and installation goes smoothly, so start researching your options today!