Although there are numerous reasons why a roof may require replacement, simple aging is the most common. The sun’s relentless ultraviolet rays, wind-driven rain and brutal blizzards eventually take their toll. Over many years, shingles grow brittle and granules come off.
It is also possible that extreme storm damage will require a full residential roof replacement in Bergen County, New Jersey. High winds circulating around a tropical system or straight-line winds in advance of a strong thunderstorm may wreak havoc on a roof. Occasionally, a tree will crash through a roof in such a way that a full roof replacement is the only solution.
In these situations, it is important to understand the process of residential roof replacement from start to finish so you can discuss your questions with a roofing expert.
Your Roof Replacement: Step-by-Step Process
Whatever the reason for installing a new roof, the process of getting it done right may seem like a daunting task. To ensure you are fully equipped with the right information, use this guide to residential roof replacements in Bergen County, New Jersey.
1. Find a reputable roofing contractor
Although there are many ways to identify a local roofing company you can trust, referrals still remain one of the best. Check with your neighbors, co-workers and friends to see what kind of experiences they’ve had with roofing contractors. Online reviews and customer testimonials can also help you find a quality contractor.
One way to find an excellent roofer is to let a roofing products manufacturer do the work for you. Look for a roofing contractor that’s factory-certified by a major manufacturer. For example, a contractor must meet stringent standards to qualify for the Master Elite certification program at GAF Roofing. A factory-certified roofing company is also ideal because it is authorized to offer the very best warranties.
If your roof replacement involves an insurance claim, an experienced local roofer familiar with the process may prove helpful. The roofing contractor you select is also instrumental in documenting all damaged roofing materials that require replacement.
2. Compare estimates
As you secure multiple estimates, you may find substantial differences between them. Ultimately, it is important to compare “apples and apples” when you review the estimates. Don’t hesitate to ask roofers to explain any very high or low estimates. Also, inquire about warranties. A high-quality roof with a top warranty delivers years of minimal maintenance and maximum protection for your real estate investment.
There are a number of variables that may impact your roofing costs. Existing damage to the sheathing or framing must be addressed before the underlayment and shingles can be applied. The quality of the roofing materials will also have an effect on the final price.
3. Select quality materials
For real peace of mind, enhanced resale value and awesome curb appeal, choose the highest-quality roofing products. You may also want to take the opportunity to change to the color and style of the shingles on your roof. Some of today’s highly durable architectural shingles deliver a textured, three-dimensional look.
Because you want multiple lines of defense in the quest to keep unwanted moisture from entering your home, the need for quality roofing materials extends beyond the shingles to other products like the underlayment and ice/water barrier, as well. Your roofing contractor can make recommendations regarding the right materials for your home.
4. Schedule your project
Because a homeowner will often plan their schedule around a roofing project, the roofing crew needs to arrive as close to the agreed-upon time as possible. However, for safety’s sake and to keep the sub-roofing from getting unacceptably wet, it is important for crews to avoid particularly inclement weather. All of these factors will be taken into account when you schedule your project with your roofing contractor.
5. Delivery of debris container
A well-organized roofing company will arrange to have a waste container delivered to your property a day or two before the work is scheduled.
6. Crew completes roof replacement
The efficient, prompt completion of the project minimizes disruptions for the homeowner. An experienced crew can complete a residential roof replacement in Bergen County, New Jersey in just one day. However, more steeply pitched roofs may require scaffolding and additional safety equipment.
7. Clean up
A reputable local contractor will seek to it that the crew carefully cleans up when the project is complete. Although placing tarps over shrubs and other landscape elements is helpful, it is also important to minimize stray debris. The crew makes every effort to leave the property as they found it. At the conclusion of the project, the contractor should promptly pick up the loaded debris container.
8. Warranty review and registration
Once the work is complete, review the warranty with your contractor. Get a clear understanding of what the warranty does and does not cover. Then, register the warranty with the manufacturer who is backing it. A properly registered, high-quality roof warranty will give you peace of mind for many years to come.
How to Get the Most Out of Your New Roof
Although a homeowner may be tempted to trust that a new roof will perform as intended for years, it is still wise to arrange for annual or semi-annual inspections by a certified roof inspector. Spring and fall inspections detect storm damage, debris buildup and more. These periodic roof inspections also help to keep your warranty in force.
Contact CRS for Professional Assistance
Since 1977, CRS has completed thousands of residential roof replacements in Bergen County, NJ. Many of our new projects come through referrals from satisfied customers.
CRS is a true full-service roofing company offering everything from routine maintenance to complete roof replacements. We are proud of our status as a GAF Master Elite Contractor, a designation fewer than one in 30 roofing companies achieve.
We would welcome the opportunity to earn your business. Please contact us today to arrange for a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!
