What is the roofing process?
If you’re like most homeowners, you don’t think much about your roof until there’s a problem. But your roof plays a critical role in protecting your home from the elements, and it’s important to keep it in good repair. If you wait until a problem becomes noticeable, then you risk causing severe damage to your home. Roof repair may seem daunting, but a good contractor will walk you through the process so that you feel at ease. Here’s a look at the roofing process, from start to finish.
1. Starting your roof repair or replacement project
The first step in any roofing project is a thorough inspection. Your roofer will check for any signs of damage or wear and tear, and make recommendations for repairs or replacement. If price is a concern, your roofer can speak with your insurance to help lower the cost of your roof repairs. Your roofer will take pictures of your roof damage in order to send proof to your insurance company that you need either a roof repair or replacement. A professional roofer should be an expert at dealing with insurance companies to help get you the best price possible. Lifetime Quality Roofing offers 100% FREE roof inspections, with no obligation to sign a contract.
2. Removing the existing roofing material
If you decide to replace your roof, the next step is for a hired professional to remove the old roofing materials. This is a delicate process, as you don’t want to damage the underlying structure, or the roof deck, of your home. A professional roofer will know how to accomplish this, so consider hiring a professional instead of DIY repairs. If you damage the underlying structure of your home with DIY repairs, then insurance will not cover the cost to repair your roof. The first things removed from your roof will be the drip edge and flashing. Once these are removed, your roofer will get started on removing the shingles. After that, the only thing left to be removed is the felt paper that sits under the shingles.
3. Waterproof the roof deck
Once the old roofing is removed, your roofer will install a new layer of felt paper to help protect your home from water damage. Water damage is one of the most common and harmful ways a roof can become damaged. This is just one layer of protection for your home. If the roof repair takes more than one day, your roofer may place tarps on your home to protect it from the elements. You shouldn’t have to worry about water damage while your roof is being repaired with a professional roofer. If you’re doing DIY repairs, make sure you have some tarps handy in case the weather changes, or in case repairs don’t go according to plan.
4. Install new shingles to the roof
After the felt paper is installed, it’s time to install the new roofing materials, such as new shingles. A common roofing material is asphalt shingles. This process will vary depending on the type of roofing you’ve chosen, but in general, the new roofing is installed in overlapping layers. This is so water and debris will roll right off your roof without getting stuck in any cracks or under any layers. The first layer is called the underlayment, and it’s followed by the main roofing material or shingles. Your roofer will then install any necessary flashing and trim, and finally, apply a layer of roofing sealant. Flashing goes around chimneys, or anything protruding from your roof. These all contribute to the defense against water damage to your home.
5. Thoroughly clean the area around your property
Once the roofing materials are in place, your roofer will clean up the job site and make sure that all the materials are properly disposed of. A professional roofer will clean thoroughly as roofing materials, such as nails or nail guns, can be dangerous. When doing DIY repairs, it’s important to keep track of all of the roofing materials you are using and make sure they are disposed of properly. Contact your local waste management company to find out the best way to dispose of old roofing materials, such as shingles.
Admire your beautiful new roof
Now it’s time to sit back and enjoy your new roof! With proper care and maintenance, it should last for many years to come. Repairing your roof shouldn’t be daunting when working with a professional. Call Lifetime Quality Roofing at 614-407-ROOF (7663) for a free inspection, and a roof that will last a lifetime.