UNDERSTANDING YOUR ROOF ESTIMATE
So, you’ve decided to invest in a new roof, and now you need to compare estimates from different contractors. Understanding what each contractor offers in their roof replacement estimate is important. Most re-roofing quotes include various products and services, and knowing the details can help you make an informed decision. This article focuses on the installation of shingles on a roof.
BEGINNING THE PROJECT
A date is scheduled to begin your new roof replacement. On the day of the roof start, a dumpster is placed in the driveway in front of the garage area. A crew will arrive to remove the existing roof material down to the wood. Sometimes, another roof is found under the visible roof, which may result in an additional charge as the contractor only knows what is under the roof to be replaced until the day of the tear-off.
PLYWOOD & SHEATHING
During a roof replacement project, it may be discovered that some of the wood decking has been damaged and needs to be replaced. A roofing contractor may indicate this expense differently, noting apparent damage in the estimate and specifying the type of material used. However, this damage is sometimes hidden until the replacement project has begun. Some contractors will also include the additional costs that may be incurred if a problem is found.
WALL TO ROOF CONNECTORS
A roof-to-wall connector is metal strapping that connects the external house wall to the roof trusses. All houses in Florida have them. However, the connectors made need to be upgraded or extra nails installed in the existing connector. Roof replacement is the best time to upgrade the connector for the mitigation report.
CHIMNEY CRICKET
If the home has a chimney, a cricket is required if one isn’t already present. Cricket is a little roof built behind the chimney that helps deflect water around the back of a chimney.
UNDERLAYMENT
Underlayment protects the interior from water if shingles are lost in a storm. Self-adhered underlayment firmly adheres to the plywood roof deck, providing a second line of defense for the shingle roof. As of 2024, it is required by code in Florida due to strong winds and driven rain.
DRIP EDGE
This component, comprising metal strips applied along roof eaves and rakes, prevents water from infiltrating under the shingles and directs water away from the fascia and into gutters if they are installed. Due to salt air, it is best to install aluminum drip edges on the barrier island in Florida and galvanized drip edges on the mainland.
VALLEYS
Valleys, where two sloping roof planes intersect to facilitate water runoff, require valley reinforcement. In Florida, it is best to install pliable materials due to the movement of the two roof planes against each other. On shingle roofs, closed-cut valleys are most aesthetically pleasing. Shingles from one side of the valley extend across the valley, while shingles from the other side are applied on top of the opposing side and trimmed back a few inches from the valley centerline.
FLASHING
Roof flashings are used on chimneys, dormers, and walls. They prevent water from seeping behind and under shingles, thus averting potential water damage to the structure. Flashing typically consists of thin sheets of aluminum or galvanized steel.
PLUMBING PIPES
Pipes on the roof, usually white PVC piping, are vents that allow air to escape the home septic system. To prevent deterioration, professional roofers will replace them with new lead boots over the pipe.
SHINGLES
The core component of a roof replacement estimate is the roofing material, specifically the architectural or dimensional shingle. In Florida, roofing materials must meet specific requirements due to the state’s susceptibility to hurricanes. The shingles must now withstand winds of up to 130mph. They come in various colors and are backed by warranties from different manufacturers.
RIDGE VENT
Proper roof ventilation is essential to allow attic heat to escape and prevent damage to the roof and the entire home. Ridge vents, installed along the roof’s peak, are the most popular type of roof ventilation system. They allow hot air to escape while cooler air enters through the overhang soffits. The shingle warranty may be voided if a roof is not adequately vented. If there isn’t enough ridge for venting, off-ridge vents can be placed anywhere on the roof.
SOFFIT & FASCIA
The fascia is the roof edge facing you, where the gutters are attached, while the soffits are the underside of the roof overhang facing the ground. When replacing a roof, it’s common also to replace soffit and fascia that have been damaged by years of exposure to the weather. This damage can be caused by rot in the wood fascia or the sub-fascia due to roof leaks, which may be unknown to the homeowner.
GUTTERS
It’s also an excellent time to consider replacing gutters during a roof replacement. Gutters are inexpensive and crucial for protecting your house’s foundation by directing water away from it.
WARRANTIES
Most roof replacement estimates will include warranties and guarantees with specific limitations and coverage for years. Manufacturer warranties cover defects in the roofing material, while artistry warranties offered by the contractor cover installation-related defects. Understanding the coverage and limitations of a manufacturer’s warranty before making any roofing decisions is essential.
CHOOSING YOUR CONTRACTOR
After reviewing and understanding the estimate, it’s essential to carefully consider each contractor’s qualifications and experience before deciding.
Florida Roofing and Renovations Inc 321-914-3360 Contact here
