When it is time to install a new roof, homeowners tend to base their decision on the final cost. When seeking out the best value, you need to figure out how that final number is determined.
First and foremost, when looking to replace your roof, you should choose a licensed and insured contractor. Ask around, and find out who your friends and neighbors trust. Selecting a roofer whit a good reputation helps to ensure the lifetime of your roof.
The cheapest roofing package will most likely disappoint when it comes to quality and overall value. You do get what you pay for. Contractors may have to skimp and cut corners in order to deliver the job at the lowest possible dollar amount. Although it may cost more, hiring a licensed and insured roofer will pay off in the long run. Every home needs a roof to protect it’s inhabitants from the elements. Make sure that the roofing company you choose will be around to repair or replace it if the occasion arises.
Contractors compete based on price, which makes it difficult for good roofers to be able deliver the high quality of work they desire. With other contracting businesses reducing costs by cutting corners, licensed contractors suffer. These reliable roofers have their clients best interests at heart, but sometimes, they too are forced to reduce their quality of work by cutting corners as well. By only hiring licensed contractors, you will be preventing this from happening.
Many factors come into play when a contractor calculates the cost of replacing your roof. He must first measure your roof’s size and slope to determine how much material needs to be purchased for the project., and which type of material you would like him to use. Next, he must take into account what type of roof you have and how many layers of shingles currently exists. Are there any extenuating circumstances and how can he work with them or around them? How many hours of labor will needed in order to complete the job? How long of a warranty? The contractor also has to calculate the cost of removing materials from the home and disposal of the waste products. Many roofers have a rough estimate in their heads before they head out to the work site. Then, they will make adjustments depending on the homes specifications.
The contractors total overhead cost can differ from one company to another. Although these costs will be similar between roofing contractors that are licensed and insured. The overhead cost is greatly affected by office expenses, employee training, continual education, advertising, equipment, vehicle upkeep, fuel, and the cost of Worker’s Compensation insurance.
When making the decision to replace your home’s roof, you need to decide which materials should be used. Homeowners need to take into account that the amount of money put into this project will translate into its overall value. When researching high quality roofing materials, a metal roof will be at the top of the list. Many homeowners are unaware that the metal roof is even an option for their home. For many years, metal roofs have been exclusively associated with industrial areas and buildings.
Installing a metal roof on your house is one of the best investments you can make. The initial outlay is one of the most expensive ones, but in the long run, a metal roof will save you a great deal of money.
There are multiple types of metal roofs available for installation. The most popular options are as follows (in order of low to high price):
- 1. Corrugated Steel Panels –This is the least expensive option when it comes to installing a metal roof. These panels come in easy to install panels cut to a custom length or standard 3X10 panels. A corrugated metal roof is relatively quick and easy to install at a low cost. Remember that low cost usually come with lower quality. It is unavoidable, but you will need to put money towards improvements and upkeep over the years with this roof.
- 2. Metal Shingles – Metal shingles are made of a higher quality steel than corrugated metal. They feature a concealed fastener method and are less likely to rust and leak as corrugated steel. Metal shingles offer homeowners longevity and quality at an affordable price.
- 3. Stone Coated Steel Tiles and Shingles – These are heavy gauge shingles and tiles which are coated with colored granules which look like clay or concrete tiles, cedar shakes, and shingles. These tiles are an excellent barrier for states susceptible to hurricanes, tornadoes, hail, fire, and wind. They will not burn and they can withstand hail ranging in sizes over 2 inches wide and winds over 110 miles per hour.
- 4. Standing Seam – This can be a relatively inexpensive option for most ranch style houses, but can increase exponentially when installing onto a complicated roof. The cost will vary depending on varying slopes. You also have the option of choosing a premium aluminum metal, such as copper or zinc. This can run you up over $20 per square foot.
Not only will the installation of a metal roof save you a great deal of money in the long run, a metal roof can offer homeowners the largest insurance discounts. Compared to the lifespan of the average composite roof, which is about 12 years, a metal roof can last a lifetime. A metal roof is fire resistant ad EnergyStar™ rated. Both of these features will garner a homeowner many discounts and incentives. In some instances, these discounts can be 30% or more. This discount will always be dependent on the type of metal roof that is installed and which area of the country you live in. Of course, these discounts will vary depending on which provider you have for your homeowner’s insurance policy.
Each and every roof is different and each homeowner has different goals for their roof and home. Those goals affect the price of the metal roof on everything from quality of materials to the quality of the installation. A true College Station roofer will be able to build the right metal roof for your budget.
For more information, contact Schulte Roofing, Home of the Bulletproof Roof® Guarantee directly.