If you own a home for many years, you’re likely to need a roof replacement at some point. Fortunately, getting a new roof doesn’t have to be overwhelming or confusing. As a roofing company in the Kansas City Metro, Christian Brothers Roofing is committed to giving homeowners in the area topnotch service and workmanship that keeps you confident in your roof.
Here’s the essential information you need to know if you’re getting a new roof.
Factors that Influence the Roof Installation Process
There are several elements that factor into when you should get your roof replaced, and how long the roof replacement process may take.
Storm Damage
In the Kansas City Metro area, storms sweep through in almost any season. And that means your roof may suffer damage over time from weather elements such as hail, high winds, heavy rains, heavy snows and ice.
After storms, examine your roof with binoculars from across the street and from inside the attic to look for common signs of storm-related roof damage, such as leaks, missing shingles, and broken gutters.
Remember—severe issues should be addressed quickly to eliminate additional damage to your home.
Code Requirements
If you own an older home, it’s possible that the existing roof is not up to today’s safety codes. Some repairs may be necessary to strengthen your roof and allow it to last longer.
Pests and Mold
Sometimes, roof issues can include infestation by termites, carpenter ants or rodents. If there have been leaks, mold and mildew may be a problem. These issues must be remediated before your roof replacement.
What Happens During Your Roof Installation
The process of installing a new roof isn’t as stressful as you might think, especially when you understand exactly what to expect when the roofer is at work. To make it as convenient as possible for homeowners, your roofing company will perform the following steps:
1. Plan the Installation
Before your roof is replaced, your roofer will meet with you to inspect your existing roof and identify any issues such as repairs that need to be made. You’ll receive a detailed proposal and estimate, and any necessary permits will be obtained.
2. Prepare the Property
To protect your landscaping, a professional roofing company will cover shrubs and flowerbeds with tarps.
As a homeowner, you can help with this part of the process:
- Move outdoor furniture and lawn decorations, out of the way before the roofers arrive.
- Cut your grass so that when roofers work, it’ll be easier for them to spot and remove nails and other roofing debris.
- Cover items in your attic with a protective tarp so that they are not damaged by any stray roofing debris.
- Move vehicles into the garage or onto the street to prevent them from any accidental impacts from debris.
3. Remove Old Roofing
The roofer will remove your existing shingles, old flashing and drip edging, and dispose of them for you in a roll-off dumpster.
4. Make Repairs
Before a new roof is laid, the roofing company will make needed repairs to the plywood to ensure the new roof is as secure as possible.
5. Install Ice Dam Protection
In cold areas such as Kansas City, an ice guard membrane is installed to prevent melting ice from getting beneath your shingles and causing moisture damage.
6. Add Roofing Paper
Asphalt roofing paper (sometimes referred to as tar paper or roofing felt) is tacked or nailed down in overlapping rows to create a moisture barrier. This step helps prevent water from seeping into roof valleys and the spaces around chimneys.
7. Install Drip Edging
Metal drip edging is added around the edge of your roof, on both the eaves side and the gables side. This helps direct rain and melting snow and ice away from the fascia, preventing water damage to the roof.
8. Add Flashing
Since water tends to pool in the valleys of a roof, valley flashing is nailed to the roof deck and sealed with caulk to direct water away from these spots, and provide another layer of protection.
9. Lay Down Shingles
Your new shingles will be installed, starting at the eaves and moving up toward the roof’s peak. This protects your roof from the elements, and also provides curb appeal.
10. Add Ridge Vent
This single, lengthy vent is applied to the roof peak to ensure air can circulate in your attic. Proper air circulation prevents condensation from damaging the roof and attic, and it helps stop ice dams from forming. If a ridge vent doesn’t make sense, other types of vents may be used.
11. Cleanup
After the work is done, your roofer will use magnetic tools to find and remove nails and other metallic debris from your lawn. The old roofing will be hauled away. And you can enjoy your new roof!
Cost of Roof Replacement
The overall price of your new roof will depend on several factors, including how large the roof is, what materials you choose to install, how extensive any needed repairs may be, and more. All these factors should be weighed and balanced to determine the best approach for your particular home.
For a more detailed look at cost factors, check out our Roof Replacement Cost Comparison for Kansas City Metro Homeowners.
Insurance Claim Assistance
If your roof has been damaged by storms, fire or some similar disaster, replacing it may be covered under your homeowners insurance. Your roofer can offer tips for filing a claim and work with you to ensure you have the needed documentation.
Options that Make It Simple to Get a New Roof
Getting the roof replacement you need to protect your home is a must, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, it can be quite affordable, even if you’re on a tight budget or need to move fast to repair storm damage. Check out our financing options, which make it easier to get a new roof and be confident your home is protected.
