Four Important Considerations for Replacing Your Old Roof

Replacing your roof is a big project, and with it comes a lot of considerations. To get the best value out of your new roof and the installation process, it's important to make sure your home is thoroughly inspected, that you choose the right material for your home, and that you have fully explored all of your financing options.

Roof and Home Repairs

If your roof is very old, your home may need some additional repairs before the new roof is installed, especially if your old roof has had any leaks. Water and pest damage especially can weaken the support structure of your roof, and this type of damage must be repaired before any additional work is done.

To help establish exactly what you need and to make sure you get a thorough job done, make sure a total inspection of your roof is done before any work begins. On top of making sure any damage is caught and taken care of, it can help you prepare your budget for the full project again.

Choosing a Roofing Material

There are many different roofing materials to choose from, but which one will work best for you may depend on different factors like the climate where you live, the way your roof is shaped, and how old your home is. Materials like asphalt shingle are less expensive and very light, while materials like tile, cement, and slate are more expensive and noticeably heavier. Depending on the way your house is designed or how old it is, using very heavy roofing materials may not be the best choice. When in doubt, a roofing specialist can help you decide what would work best.

Different materials also come at different costs, so if your budget doesn't have much wiggle room, this may limit your options.

Payment Options

When making a big purchase, it helps to know your options and to know what support might be available to you. If you're still exploring your options, here are some to keep in mind.

• On top of paying all at once, you can also seek financing, whether through the roofing company, a bank, or a credit union. Search around for competitive interest rates and terms.
• If you need financial assistance, see if you qualify for a grant or loan from programs such as the Weatherization Assistance Program and the Section 504 Home Repair program.
• If you're able, a home equity loan may offer the money you need with reasonable terms.

Adding Solar

Adding solar to your roof can be a worthwhile investment, but if your old roof is getting closer to the point of needing replacing, this should be done before you install solar. Solar panels add extra weight to your roof and are a complicating factor when it comes to replacing your old roof; it's not worth it to put them up if you plan on replacing your roof in the next year or two.

Depending on how much you want solar panels on your roof, this can also influence what material you choose for your new roof, as installing panels over certain materials can add to your labor costs. If you need a roof replacement, reach out to a company like Earhart Roofing Company Inc.

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