All You Need to Know About Roof Replacement
Roof replacement doesn't have to be a daunting task. Here's what you need to know about it.
Roof replacement is arguably one of the most important home improvement projects and yet it is something not many homeowners look forward to and put off until it was absolutely necessary. This is because the lifespan of a roofing system usually takes about 40-70 years which is a very long time. What most homeowners fail to understand is that our roof wears out over time and gets a lot of beating from the elements as well as from Rockhampton's climate.
The city of Rockhampton, QLD is situated within the cyclone risk zone, which means it gets hit by an average of 11 tropical cyclones from November until April. Strong winds and water accumulating on your roof can cause damage and weaken its overall structure in the long run. This alone can significantly reduce the lifespan of your roof.
Despite sustaining damage, it's quite easy for many homeowners to overlook it and convince themselves, "she'll be right" until it was a little too late. Aside from the fact that roof replacement consumes a lot of time, it is also quite expensive which is why a roof replacement project is put on the back burner.
In this article, we will cover basically all you need to know about roof replacement - why it is important, when is it time to replace your roof, how much it cost and all the other questions you may have in mind.
How to determine if your roof needs replacement?
Your roofing system protects you from harsh weather conditions and other outdoor elements. Without it, everyone and everything you value inside your home will either be drenched in the rain or exposed to the sun's harmful rays. If your roof is leaky all over and your gutters are rusty and clogged, chances are, the foundation of your entire house will suffer from water damage. Standing water can weaken the concrete foundations and cause them to become unstable and eventually break down. Molds and mildew can grow and fester and could cause respiratory problems and other health issues.
Most homeowners will resort to a band-aid solution once they spot a problem. The thing is, there are a number of roofing problems that only a professional roofer can detect. Sure, some quick fixes can remedy a small problem or two, but only for a time. However, those little, easy-to-miss problems may turn into huge ones that can give you a headache and have you digging in your back pocket sooner than you can expect.
So how do you determine that your roof needs replacement? Here are the four common signs:
1. Ageing
As mentioned earlier, roofs can last up to 40 years but they can show signs of wear and tear over time due to weather conditions. You may also see signs of rusting, fading and peeling paintwork and holes developing in different parts of your roof.
Damage can happen because of dried tree branches that may hit your roof. Leaves, bird and vermin droppings and other debris can accumulate and cause water to pool on your roof and may also clog your gutters. This can also speed up the ageing of your roofing system.
2. Leaks and other signs of water damage
If you have clogged gutters and downpipes, chances are, water is pooling on your roof. Rust will eventually develop and leave holes in it which can cause leaking. Small holes can be patched and may stop leaking temporarily but if your roof has other signs of water damage such as unsightly water stains on your ceiling, bothersome musty other that seem to be coming from your ceiling and walls, cracked and bubbling paint, and warped portions, then it is high time that you have your roof replaced.
3. Corrosion and rust
Metal roofing is often sealed with protective paint to protect it from rust and corrosion. If this protective seal is not applied correctly or becomes damaged, it will lead to exposure which can cause rust to form and eat through your roof and patches of corrosion to develop.
4. Storm damage
Storms are common in Rockhampton. Heavy winds and rain as well as debris falling on your roof during a severe storm can cause dents, punctures, and tears on your roof. Any form of damage, no matter how big or small it may be, must be noted. If your roof sustained extensive damage from a storm, you may consider replacing it altogether.
Factors affecting the cost of roof replacement
Cost is perhaps a homeowner's biggest concern when it comes to any home improvement project and roof replacement is no exception. This can be both very expensive and time-consuming. Roofing websites will give cost that ranges from $12,000 to $30,000 or $15,000 to $20,000. This may or may not be applicable to you.
Here's what we're going to tell you: before you get daunted by how much you need to fund your roof replacement project, you first need to understand the major factors that influence the cost of roof replacement. These are the size of your roof, the materials to be used, and the labour cost.
The size and pitch of your roof
Size is the most significant factor that drives the cost of roof replacement. Simply put, the larger the area that needs to be worked on and the steeper the slope on a roof, the more materials you will need to cover it.
Higher-pitched roofs also tend to be more expensive as the roofing company that you are going to hire would need more safety equipment such as scaffolding and the use of harnesses to protect their workers. Setting up additional equipment also means more time spent which of course translates to additional costs.
Materials
Roof replacement will give you not only the opportunity to ensure that your roofing system is structurally sound and functioning well, but it will also give you the chance to update its look to improve its aesthetics.
When it comes to your roofing system, choose materials that are suited to withstand harsh weather conditions. Corrugated steel, aluminium zinc, and other metal roofing materials are best suited for Rockhampton's subtropical climate. Metal roofing sheets cost about $50 to $70 per square meter.
Aside from the main roof panels, you may also need the following materials:
- Sealant
- Gutters
- Flashings
- Waterproofing membrane
The quantity of materials you need for this project is again, dependent on the size of your roof and the extent of the project itself. More materials needed means more expense on your part.
Labour cost
Most professional roofers in Rockhampton offer a free consultation and estimate on how much the overall cost would be, from the materials needed to the cost of labour. This will all depend on how extensive, complexity and how much time they will need to complete the project. Once all the necessary details are factored in, the contractor of your choice will then provide you with a quote.
Here's a tip on how to save on cost: hire a reputable roofing contractor! You can never go wrong with roofing contractors who have years of experience as well as the right work ethics. Go for a contractor who is more than willing to present their work portfolio and give recommendations that fit your budget. Remember, a roof replacement project must be done right the first time. This will definitely save you from spending on expensive rework and repair in the future.
Building permits and Insurance Claims
Homeowners and roofing contractors are mandated by the law to secure building approval for roofing projects that involve the replacement of 20% of the existing roof area. This ensures that your roofing system is structurally safe and compliant with current standards. Any self-respecting contractor will not take on a roof replacement project without building approval and leave you with a roof that has not been lawfully approved which may have an impact on your home insurance or worse, hefty fines and other penalties.
Another question that most homeowners have in mind is whether insurance can cover roof replacement. The answer is yes, but it depends on the extent of damage the roof has incurred. Most insurance companies cover damages incurred that are beyond your control such as damages caused by floods, bushfires and hail and severe storms. Before you call your insurance provider, get Rockhampton Roofing to do a free assessment to see if your roof has sustained significant damage to make a claim.
Who are you gonna call?
If you think it's high time to have your roof replaced then look no further than
Roofing Rockhampton, one of the most trusted roofing contractors in the region. Our team is fully licensed, insured, and equipped to take on any roofing projects big or small. We take pride in our good old-fashioned work ethics and professionalism and ensure that we get the job done right the first time. Give us a call at
07 4276 4817 to get a free assessment.