5 Tips for Understanding the Roof Replacement Process
Did you know that all roofs have a lifespan? You probably haven’t thought about it at all until you purchased a house of your own and assessed whether or not it needs some restoration. The truth is, regardless of the material used to construct it, roofs are subjected to decay after a couple of years. Since they are constantly exposed to all weather conditions – hail, snow, rain, all kinds of storms, intense sun, winds, low temperatures, they are the part of the house that needs most of your attention. Insects also find it very appealing, especially if it’s made of wood.
So, what is a couple of years, when we’re talking about roof renovation or replacement? When you build a house, you will most likely have to renovate the roof after 10 to 15 years. Or at least, have it evaluated to see if there are any damages.
What are the most common damages? Leakage, due to many factors. And they can happen even before above mentioned period expires, for numerous reasons. If you have bought a house from someone, then assess if the roofs leak somewhere to see whether you need to completely replace or just repair some parts.
When do you need to replace the whole thing? When you haven’t been assessing completely, and have missed a leaking spot that caused serious damage because a lot of heavy rain and snow soaked it. It’s the most common reason for having to undergo a replacement.
Having all this in mind, it is useful to understand the process before you begin such works on your roof. Here are some tips, so you can better understand what it will require and look like.
1. Before doing anything, find someone to assess the condition
Unless you’re a construction engineer or someone who knows a lot about construction, assessing the condition of your roof may come as a challenge. It is why we recommend you hire professional help, to make a serious assessment. This way you will be sure if the roof needs to be replaced as a whole, or you can replace a part of it, you will also be advised about which materials are best to use to ensure the construction stays as long as possible.
Also consider if you need to replace just one part of the roof, like on a conservatory. If this is the case, find a company specialized in replacing these roofs, like transformingconservatories.co.uk.
2. Be clear about how the process begins, what is the best season for such works and how long do they take
When we talk about the replacement of the roof, in most cases we do not mean replacing the roof with a roof structure, what we mean is replacing the covering (with accompanying layers), metal sheet, fittings, and gutters. The repairing process itself takes about 3-5 days on average and can only be organized in the summer when there is no rain or snow.
This means that it is necessary to plan the budget and works at least a few months in advance. Certainly, before each renovation (partial or complete), it is most important to consult with an expert – and experienced architect, builder, master, or contractor, before deciding on any type of venture, as we mentioned in the previous point.
3. Understand there are many types of cover, and the prices are different
Even an entirely ignorant person can guess the first step before replacement is the removal of the old roof covering. Different contractors have different prices but usually charge per square meter, depending on the complexity of the roof surfaces and the type of the covering.
The next step is to choose the type of covering. For example, if the roof was covered with tiles, you will opt for the same material as the final cladding, how much this will cost? It depends on the contractor again (also the material prices), but they will charge you per square meter (depending on the look and model you choose). Special tiles for the penetration point of the vertical for ventilation and roof planes are purchased in sets, the price is also expressed per set, for both types of ventilation ducts.
4. Tinsmith works
If by now you haven’t contacted one for some reason, this is your chance to get familiar with all the works done by these craftsmen. You need them for several reasons… To complete the replacement all the tin needs to be removed or dismantled, and then put together again. You can expect to have to find the following: new sheet metal (which includes gutters, gutter pots), and metal windshields that protect the edges from the wind.
You should make sure these works are done with quality since they are not cheap and are responsible for safeguarding the walls and the house interior from moisture and leakages.
5. Your roof also has a substructure
And it may not need a complete replacement if you’re lucky. Just a minor replacement of a couple of elements. It is performed by removal of battens, insulation, and podcasting. When this is complete, a new formwork is installed, as a base for waterproofing.
When the substructure is complete, all that is needed to be done is to seal the roof. For this, construction workers use a vapor barrier (which is waterproof). The final step after this one is the placement of the secondary roof.
Having explained all the above, you should now have a clear vision of the process of replacing the roof. However, keep in mind that proper maintenance of the roof once it is replaced is very much an obligation, that will save you money later. What is needed for keeping the roof well maintained and well functioned is seasonal care. This includes, for example, cleaning the gutter from the fallen leaves and dust, at least twice a year. Or scrubbing the roof tiles to prevent the moisture from accumulating.
