If you’ve lived in your home for a while or recently acquired a property with an older standing seam metal roof, you might need to think about replacing it.
Making this decision isn’t easy because a roof replacement is a big and expensive project.
You don’t want to be taken advantage of or risk making the wrong choices that could harm your investment in your roof.
The good news is, you can avoid these problems by considering a few things beforehand. So, what should you know before jumping into a roof replacement?
This article will discuss 7 must-to-follow steps before you decide to replace your metal roof.
Signs that your metal roof might need replacement
If you see these issues on your metal roof, it’s crucial to consider if repairs are enough or if replacement is necessary.
Remember, Erie Home offers a complimentary inspection where our experts can help you decide.
- Leaks: Immediate attention is needed for leaks as they indicate potential roof damage. While repairs may help initially, persistent leaks or high repair costs might signal it’s time for a replacement.
- Missing or Loose Panels: Damage from exposure to elements is expected, but if many panel pieces are affected, it’s high time for a replacement rather than just repairs.
- Extensive Rusting: Rust can weaken your roof’s integrity, especially in standing seam metal roofs. Small rust spots can be fixed, but widespread rust may mean replacement is needed.
- Changes in Utility Bills: Metal roofs help with energy efficiency, but sudden temperature changes indoors or higher utility bills without a reason may suggest it’s time for a replacement to maintain efficiency.
7 things you need to consider before a metal roof replacement
Check the age of the metal roof
Knowing how old your metal roof is helps determine if it needs replacing. You can find this out from your records or by contacting the installer. If you bought the property with the roof already there, you have a few options.
You could try reaching out to the previous owner. If that’s not possible, check county building permit records or ask for the receipt from the previous roof replacement company.
After gathering some information, consider getting a professional inspection from Erie Home. They can give you an expert estimate of the roof’s age and condition.
Consider the quality of the roofing materials
When thinking about the cost of a metal roof, remember to prioritize quality over everything else. The sound of the cheapest contractor might be tempting, but ensure you’re getting top-notch work and materials.
A well-built metal roof that has been used with quality materials can last for decades. So, it’s worth investing in quality installation by experienced metal roofing contractors who guarantee your satisfaction. Check online reviews to ensure you’re hiring skilled professionals.
Also, consider the warranty offered by the roofing company.
Choose full roof replacement over nailing new panels onto the old roof
Before getting a new metal roof, think about going for a complete replacement instead of just nailing over the old one. While nailing over might be cheaper, it has some big downsides:
- You can’t get a better warranty.
- Changing to a different kind of shingle might not look good.
- You have to stick with the old flashing.
- Fixing leaks is trickier.
- You can’t see if the roof decking is in good shape.
- It’ll cost more when you replace the roof next time.
Even if these don’t bother you much, it’s still important to make sure your old roof is nearly done for, lays flat, doesn’t have many openings or flashing, and doesn’t have walls right up against the shingles.
Review the cost of metal roof replacement
Metal roofs though initially more expensive than asphalt ones, offer superior quality and durability. Costs vary based on factors like size and metal type, with steel being a more affordable option lasting up to 50 years.
Choosing between standing seam and stone-coated shingles affects costs too, as standing seam requires specialized installation. If budget is a concern, look into financing options to help manage the investment.
Choose a local roofing company after taking multiple estimates
Replacing your roof isn’t cheap, but it’s essential not to prioritize finding the lowest price and cheapest contractor. Searching for the lowest cost can make you an easy target for inefficient roofers seeking to exploit you.
When they realize you’re seeking the cheapest option, they’ll undercut others to win your business. However, what they don’t disclose is that their low prices often result from using inferior materials, cheap labor, or skipping essential components.
I’m not suggesting you choose the most expensive roof, but finding the absolute cheapest option is likely to cause problems within a short time. If budget is a concern, there are ways you can afford a quality roof without overspending.
Thus, choosing the right roofing company is key to a good roof replacement. I also suggest talking to a few companies, getting estimates, and comparing prices.
This helps you avoid being misled and find a contractor you trust. Sometimes, companies push for a replacement when repairs are enough. So, getting multiple opinions is wise.
And finally, the roofing company you pick affects everything about your roof replacement, like cost and quality. Select local companies with an office nearby and a local phone number. This helps you reach them if there are issues later on.
Avoid out-of-state companies that rush in after storms—they might cut corners and vanish. Local companies know the rules and make sure your roof is installed right.
Carefully look at the estimate prior to finalizing a contract agreement
Before signing anything, it’s crucial to carefully review your estimate(s) and the listed items. Every cost related to your new roof should be detailed, from materials to labor to cleanup.
Here’s what should be included in every roof estimate:
- Number of layers to be removed
- Property protection plan
- Installation method
- Approach to replacing decking
- Drip edge installation
- Components of the roof system
- Chosen roofing material
- Roof vents
- Replacement of pipe boots and flashing
- Dump fees and cleanup
- Warranty information
- Validity period of the estimate
- Right to rescind the agreement
Don’t just check for inclusion; compare these items across multiple estimates to understand pricing differences. For example, if one company includes tarps for protection and another doesn’t, consider if the lower price is worth the risk of property damage.
This highlights how ensuring proper procedures may come at a higher cost, emphasizing the importance of thorough evaluation.
Consider the eco-friendliness of metal roof
Metal roofs are environmentally friendly because they’re typically made from recycled materials and can be fully recycled at the end of their life. This is unlike asphalt shingle roofs, which often end up in landfills.
Additionally, metal roofs are much more energy-efficient than traditional roofs. They reflect sunlight away from the building using cool roof pigments, reducing the amount of heat absorbed. With high thermal emittance, they don’t retain most of the absorbed heat.
In simple terms, metal roofs absorb less heat from the sun, resulting in lower cooling costs compared to traditional roofs.
Final Verdicts
Replacing a metal roof is a major decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. By considering all the factors and making informed choices, you can ensure a successful and cost-effective project.
Taking the time to plan and prepare will help you avoid any potential pitfalls and protect your investment in your home’s roof.
Also read:
- Metal Building Homes Buying Guide: Kits, Plans, Cost and Insurance
- A Guide to Finding the Best Insulation for Metal Buildings on a Budget
- Transform Your Metal Front Door into a Wood Look – Step-by-Step Guide to Painting
- Can You Paint A Storm Door? – Guide For Metal or Aluminum Storm Door
Shery
