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Replace Your Roofing - Tips & Considerations


Re-Roofing A Steep Ridge Whenever a layer of composition is being added or an entire roof replacing is be done, there are some important considerations.


  • First, your siding, gutters & downpouts all compose an entire drainage system. So not only should the roof be inspected for damage, wear and current condition but the others as well. Details like loss of granularity on asphalt shingles should be addressed, as should expected remaining life.

  • Flashing is a common weak point in the system. View all drip edge and flashing around gutters, including chimney brick step flash as well as siding underflash. Many roofers avoid the more difficult chimney step flash that is sunk in mortar. Applying sealants here may be a partial fix. Determine if a cricket should be installed to divert water drainage.

  • Note that re-flashing, and the replacing of vent pipes is best done during a complete tear off, when all is exposed. However vent boots are common to crack and take change outs, given your design. The tear off as well exposes decking in need of replacement. If done in advance, from within the attic, inspection is less clear.

  • Patches are just that. While presenting the lower cost option usually, that can be an indicator of things to come in other areas.

  • Ventilation should be addressed, particularly on older roofs. Measures need to be taken to help ensure proper air circulation, preferably by calculated method, that can not only help promote healthier electric bills, but will preserve your roof in the long run. The cooler attic means shape retention of the sheathing, and less warping due to heat buildup.

  • Look in to the possibilies of a roofline vent - that are available to match existing composition shingles, they are virutally unseen from second story ground level. Eave vents should have sufficient intake for attic ventilation.

  • Steep pitch roofs are jobs for professional roofers, not amateurs, even given the recommended support, such as nailing in roof jacks. With this comes risk of serious injury. Almost all roofers are aware of just what is walkable and what is not.

  • Never be on the roof when the temperature is excessive hot. This causes the roof surface to soften and poses unecessary risks to the roofer.

  • Patches for flashing or roofing that is damaged, worn or missing roofing is usually an indicator the the rest of the roof is in need of work. A rule of thumb is that if greater than 10% of the surface requires repair, chances are that replacing is preferred.

  • Although adding a layer is economically enticing, building codes commonly specify the number of asphalt layers - in certain locations, a single layer only. Also, an effect of having too many layers is that nail grip and support is easily lessened, heat holds and intensifies, and loads increase across rafter spans (maximum limits should not be exceeded). Additionally, adding layers should not be attempted over certain thicker, high profile shingles.

  • Never wait for the roof above to begin leaking to start looking into adding or changing your roof. Once water & moisture permeates the wood decking, further damage is being caused. Combined with moisture in the insulation, drywall and ceiling areas, potentially bringing mold along with it.

  • If you have asbestos roof shingles (some felt materials also contain asbestos) have a team of qualified professionals assess the situation. For more information see Asbestos Roofing Materials | Mesothelioma Risks

  • Make an effort at roof maintenance, by cleaning when needed and also the gutters and downpouts, to prevent blockage backups.


    Lastly, become well informed about the best types of materials to be used that will suit your tastes, and provide service for wear requirements during weather conditions.

    Focusing on the Replacement:


    Offers ideas on prospective roofers when setting out to find them.

    Roofing Estimate - A Closer Look
    Price quotes for the roof will vary substantially, based on the materials and roof style and the chosen contractor. Along with a number of other factors. For a scoping on the roofing estimate and items of interest.


    Roof Decking - Plywood Delamination About the case of aged structures and the encounter of delaminating plywood beneath the roof surface.

    Roof Pointers on Process, Roofing
    Provides a list of proven tactics for when replacing the roof.









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