ROOFING
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Roofing Service In St. Thomas ON
Replacing your roof is arguably one of the most important home improvements you can make. The visual upgrade is a bonus when compared to the amount of hassle and headaches a new roof can prevent. Depending on the condition of your roof it may take a couple days or a couple weeks.
Shingle Colours
Asphalt shingles come in a wide variety of colours and grades. The most popular colours in Ontario are brown, black and grey. Asphalt shingles come in 3 grades.
Fibre glass laminated (Entry Level).
3-tab traditional (medium grade or architectural)
designer or premium grade (3 ply, heavy weight)
The difference between each entry point is the amount of asphalt increase along with the life expectancy of the shingle.
Asphalt shingles are more affordable than metal roofing and will still keep your home comfortable, safe and dry.
Adopt a Gorilla
The cost to replace your roof will depend on multiple factors. Some of which include the pitch, architectural design and condition of existing roof.
In extreme cases where a roof has been left too long it is common to have to replace the wood which the shingles attach to, this is called sheathing. If it is rotten, mouldy and warped it will be recommended to be replaced which will add additional expenses.
Sheathing can range from 3/8 inch to 3/4 inch depending on structural support. When the sheathing is replaced the new shingles really add curb appeal and longevity to the lifespan of your new roof.
How To know when your roof is ready for replacement
1. Missing Granules.
When looking at your roof from the ground, look for off colour spotting. Another way to tell if your shingles are losing granules is by cleaning the gutters. If granules are falling, you will find large amounts in the gutters. Missing granules will not cause water issues however the sun UV rays will be more exposed to the shingle and wear it out faster.
2. Curling Shingles.
Curled shingles are one of the easiest indicators of a roof needing repair. When shingles curl, it is a result of drying and shrinking over time. If the shingles are not replaced, they will blow away in wind storms and can lead to bigger problems. The only way to fix this issue is by replacing the area with curled shingles. If it is throughout the entire roof surface, it is time to replace the whole roof.
3. Blown off shingles
Obviously the shingles belong on your roof, if you start seeing them in the garden or yard it's time to replace your roof.
Can I Do The Roof Myself?
We have all heard about someone who was able to round up enough hard working men to complete their own roof to save some cash however before you start calling your friends, consider the amount of tools, skills and danger involved in completing a roof.
Safety Equipment
If you are not use to being on a roof you will definitely want to have guard rails, fall protection equipment and ensure your ladders and scaffolds are in good condition and position before starting. You will also want to invest in some good knee pads, boots and helmets.
Skills vs Time
Consider this, if you fall off your roof or even twist your ankle or knee, how much time will you need to take off from your full-time job to recoup? If everything goes well, you may save around $3000. If the job takes a turn for the worst, it could end up costing you time off work PLUS added expenses of a trained crew coming in to fix and finish what you started.
Materials
Assuming you do not have contractor accounts set up, you will be paying full price for materials and equipment rentals like Genie Booms to load.
Weather
The weather can be unpredictable. Don't underestimate the danger behind morning dew, high winds and sun stroke. If you do not have an ideal weather forecast on the days you plan to climb, post pone install or call in the professionals.
Do your Research
Improperly installed shingles can cost thousands of dollars in water leaks, insect infestations and mold. Do not take short cuts.
Lastly, roofing is an intense activity. Plan to take it easy several days afterwards as your back, knees and finger tips will be tired and sore.
