A well-maintained roof can last up to 30 years without requiring repairs. However, external factors play an essential part in how long your roof lasts. These factors include environmental elements and the quality and type of your roofing materials.
If your roof gives in to everyday wear and tear, you may find yourself requiring a new roof. Whether you decide to do it yourself or hire a professional, there are essential steps to take for the roof replacement process.
Read on to understand how to replace a roof.
1. Prepare Your Driveway
A roof installation requires preparation of both the inside and outside of your home. Ensure you remove any obstacles from your driveway and pack your boats or cars on the street. This will give your contractors and the hauling trailer access to your home.
Ensure all pets and breakable items such as vases and flower pots are cleared from the job’s perimeter. You can take your pet to a friend’s or a family member’s house for safety.
2. Prepare the Inside of Your Home
Before removing the first shingle, ensure your home’s interiors are protected. Cover all your furniture, clothes, and bedding to ensure any falling dust particles and debris do not damage your things. During the installation process, contractors will be working on the roof, and you never know what might fall in the process.
3. Remove Your Existing Roof
Before installing a new roof, you must first get rid of all the old roofing materials. Below are the steps to take when removing old roofing materials:
- Remove any satellite dishes or solar panels from the roof
- Start at the base of the top and gradually work your way upwards
- Use a flat tool to detach your roof’s shingles from the roofing deck
- Remove the underlayment or felt paper
- Remove or flatten the roofing staples and nails
Removing an old roofing system is an essential step in preparing your home for a roof installation. You can choose to hire a roofing contractor to do the job or do it yourself. However, remember it can be quite a tasking work.
4. Carry Out a Roofing Inspection
Every roof replacement project should start with a thorough inspection. It’s essential to hire a professional to do the inspection. This is because they are trained to inspect your roof’s wood deck and determine if it requires replacement or not.
Any soft, rotten, or wet wood requires a replacement to put in place a solid foundation to lay the roofing structure. A solid base ensures that the shingles stay intact and lasts longer.
5. Proper Flashing
When it is time for a roof replacement, ensure that metal flashing around penetrations such as chimneys are in good condition, well installed, and counter-flashed. An opening between the roof and the wall can allow water into your house.
6. Install the Roofing Materials
After preparing your roof and ensuring it has a strong foundation, it is now time to install your preferred roofing materials. Whether you’re installing barrel tiles, asphalt shingle, or flat roofing materials, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions.
Now You Know How to Replace a Roof
Replacing your roof is an essential step in your home’s maintenance. Now that you know how to replace a roof, you can take the necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition during the replacement process.
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