Category: Roof Replacement

A professionally installed asphalt shingle roof will set you back an average of $10,000 in 2024 — and the complexity and size of your roof can certainly bump that cost up! It’s not pocket change, and you certainly wouldn’t be the first to be tempted to go the DIY route.

The prospect of saving a significant chunk of money is almost definitely the driving factor if you’re toying with the idea of replacing your own roof, but some homeowners may see the project as an interesting challenge that will allow them to master new skills.

Should you go for it?

Our answer is ultimately a resounding “no.” You and your property are both too precious to attempt a risky project like a DIY roof replacement. This guide shows you what’s at stake.

Why Not to Attempt a DIY Roof Replacement

If you’re getting ready to replace your own roof, you might have given yourself a pep talk or two. “You can do it!” Can you really, though?

• Roofing is a dangerous business, even for seasoned professionals. Even if you take steps to implement DIY roofing safety measures, know that over half of all construction fatalities involve falling from heights.
• Roofers use safety equipment like harnesses, anchors, and guardrails. If you value your life, you’ll have to invest in this equipment, too, slashing your savings potential.
• Roofing is complex. YouTube videos can’t adequately teach you how to do it, and your property’s structural integrity is at risk if you do it wrong.
• A roof replacement takes time — and that’s especially true if you have no idea what you’re doing. Think about it. Would working overtime to pay for your roof replacement be more economical?

The Pros of Replacing Your Own Roof

Let’s take a peek at the reasons so many homeowners feel called to attempt a DIY roof replacement. They’re obvious, really — and as professional roofers, we can’t say we don’t understand the appeal.

• When you hire a professional team of roofers, like the Roof Mentors, to replace your roof, our labor accounts for a significant portion of the cost. If you do it yourself, you can keep that money in your pocket, and you’ll only have to pay for the materials and required tools.
• A DIY roof replacement may sound like a fun opportunity to master a new skill set, especially if you already love tackling small home improvement projects. If you successfully complete the project, you’ll feel an immense sense of pride every time you look at your roof.
• Doing it yourself gives you complete control over your roof replacement, including the materials you use — in theory, anyway.

Sounds good, right? Unfortunately, there’s too much of an ugly side to take that risk.

When to Hire a Roofer — Hire the Best Roofers in North Carolina for Your Roof Replacement Instead

Our take? The risks of DIY roof replacement are too great to even seriously consider this option. Unless you’re a retired roofer, you have no business trying to fix your own roof. Part of the benefits of professional roofing services is that skilled and experienced roofers take on that risk for you.

If you’re gearing up for a roof replacement and you’re still thinking about doing it yourself, the Roof Mentors invite you to give us a call. We’ll walk you through the process and tell you more about the risks. After all, your roof is your home’s main defense against the elements. Take the next step; reach out now and call the pros today!

A healthy, robust roof is a home’s primary defense against the elements. Over time, a worn, damaged, and aging roof can damage the entire house. While every roof eventually needs replacing, the urgency slowly creeps up on you over time.

How do you know when it’s time to act? This burning question plagues homeowners and potential buyers alike. While an experienced roofing company, like the Roof Mentors, can assess an aging roof’s condition to get you the answers you need, you’ll still want to know when it’s time to call in the professionals.

This guide walks you through the red flags that scream, “Get a roofer in right now.”

1. The Roof Has Outlived Its Functional Lifespan

While a proactive approach to roof maintenance absolutely increases its functional lifetime, and your local climate also plays a role, every roofing system has an expiration date. Its installation year is one key factor that indicates when to replace a roof.

• Asphalt shingle roofs usually last 15 to 30 years.
• Clay and concrete shingles can last over 50 years.
• Slate roof tiles are extremely durable and can last over a century.
• Metal roofing systems generally last around 50 years.

This rough guide is especially helpful for potential buyers, who should always inquire about the roof’s age, but it doesn’t offer conclusive answers.

2. Recognizing Roof Aging: Learn the Tell-Tale Signs

Visible roof wear and damage warn you that it may be time to call a roofing contractor.

When it comes to asphalt shingle roofs, look for granule loss, curling and buckling, missing shingles, sagging, and visibly damaged flashing around roof penetrations. Slate roofs may develop waving or sagging, moss or algae growth, and worn or eroded tiles. In contrast, metal roofing may look worn or corroded.

While a few cracked or missing shingles don’t necessarily mean you need a roof replacement, it is always good to take note of them. Addressing repair needs promptly may help you avoid the need for a new roof a while longer. However, your roofers may also discover structural damage in the attic if the roof has been neglected for a while.

3. Interior Damage That Shows You Need a Roof Replacement

Key roof replacement indicators aren’t confined to your home’s exterior. Some of the most telling ones often hide in the dark, festering away in your attic. When asking yourself if it’s time for a roof replacement, look for water damage on the walls. Inspect the attic for mold, moisture, musty smells, cracks showing daylight, and signs of sagging.

4. Other Signs of Roof Damage

The rest of your home’s exterior can point to signs of roof damage, too, and it pays to be aware of:

Bent, sagging, and debris-filled gutters are often signs that your roof no longer sheds water effectively.
Water backup can lead to visibly worn fascia and soffits, indicating the need for a roof replacement.
Crumbling chimneys can result from water damage.
Damaged decking can also hint that you’re due for a roof replacement. It’s a sign that you may be dealing with water infiltration.

What’s the Next Step? Call the Pros!

So, you’ve spotted some signs that it’s time to start thinking about a roof replacement.

Call the Roof Mentors to further assess your roof and get your home ready and prepped for a new roof. If it’s time, we’ll guide you through the process of choosing the best roofing solution for your needs and make sure you’re all set for the next few decades! By focusing on your individual needs, we’ll be ready to tailor unique solutions just for you.

Ready to make the call? Reach out now and start with a free inspection today!

In this article we’ve prepared useful information for homeowners who’d like to familiarize themselves with roof decking materials.
Apart from that, we’ll tell you exactly when it’s essential to replace your roof decking.

But first, let’s start with the definition so that you know precisely what we’re referring to in this article.

What is Roof Decking?

Roof decking, or roof sheathing, is a layer of wooden boards attached to the trusses and rafters of a roof. As defined by HomeGuide, “decking” is the base on which shingles or some other roofing material lie on, providing support and even weight distribution for the entire roof.

Roof decking plays a crucial role in the construction of a building’s roof.

Contractors and homeowners can make wiser decisions when it comes to roof construction and maintenance if they are aware of the importance of roof decking and its varieties.

Which Roof Decking Material to Choose

Which roof decking material you choose can vary depending on factors such as your area’s climate and building codes, along with budget and design preferences.

Commonly used materials for roof decking include plywood, oriented strand board (or, widely known by its initials, OSB), concrete, and metal.

Additionally, well-installed roof decking can enhance energy efficiency, improve insulation, and contribute to the overall structural strength of the building.

Choosing the right roofing material for the covering will help build a solid structure for your roof, helping prevent issues such as sagging, buckling, and moisture damage

We’re not going to go into detail on the features of each roof decking material, but we’ll say that plywood roof decking is better if your roof is regularly exposed to a lot of moisture.

Plywood roof decking absorbs moisture quicker than OSB and, if wet, will return to its almost exact shape when dry.

When to Replace the Roof Decking

Let’s presume you’ve decided in favor of plywood roof decking.
The lifespan of a roofing deck is usually 20 to 30 years.

When’s the time to consider a roofing deck replacement?

If you spot:

• wood that is spongy and flaky
• frequent roof leaks
• a sagging roof or ceiling
• moisture or stains on the ceilings, walls, or rafters

or if you sense:

• a strong mildew smell,

then it may be time to think about replacing your plywood roof decking.

Roof decking rots after exposure to moisture, which may reach the decking because of damaged flashing, old shingles, blocked gutters and drains, or humidity in the attic.
If your home is located in the region of Hope Mills, NC, then it’s very likely that you’ll have to count on heavy rainfalls during the year.

It’s precisely the rain that will mostly influence you when making a decision about what roofing deck material to choose in the end.
According to Weather-us.com, there are 160.2 rainfall days, and 31.73″ of precipitation is accumulated in Hope Mills, North Carolina.

It’s also very useful to know that homeowners insurance may cover decking damaged by an accident or natural disaster.
Check your policy for specifics. Some insurance policies do not cover code upgrades, which means ⅜” thick roof decking may not qualify for reimbursement if the city code requires ⅝” roof decking.

Your Certified, Insured and Friendly Roofer – The Roof Mentors

The Roof Mentors offer unmatched residential roofing services in the following North Carolina cities:

• Fayetteville,
• Raeford,
• Dunn,
• and Winstom-Salem.

With an array of roofing materials to choose from, you can work with our experts to craft the roof of your dreams.
Schedule your first free consultation via our 24/7 call center today. We’re more than ready to answer any of your questions and provide a free estimate!

We can assist you with storm damage or emergency roof repairs, too.

If you’re not careful, roofs can easily burn a hole through your pocket, so be sure to maintain such an investment carefully! By implementing the maintenance practices you can significantly prolong the lifespan of your roof. Being able to identify issues and taking prompt action is key. Below we have compiled some tips for maintaining shingle roofs along with indicators that suggest it may be time for a replacement.

Shingle Roof Maintenance Tips

We recommend conducting maintenance twice a year and after. Additionally understanding some roof care techniques and knowing when to seek assistance if you’re unable to handle a DIY project yourself is important.

By adhering to this maintenance checklist you can ensure your roof stands strong against the test of time.

1) Housekeeping

One fundamental step in any roof maintenance schedule is regular cleaning. Although often overlooked it plays a role in extending the longevity of your roof. Keeping your roof clean and well maintained goes a long way in preserving its integrity.

Our Suggestion

Homeowners should frequently make sure that their roof is clear of fallen tree limbs, leaves, debris, and stagnant pools of water.

To prevent debris accumulation consider trimming back any plants or tree branches that hang over your roof. If there are hard to reach areas it might be worth hiring a contractor to handle the task.

Don’t overlook the importance of cleaning your gutters. Use a trowel to remove leaves and organic matter so that water can flow freely through the downspouts.

2) Roof Inspection

Additionally, conducting roof inspections is crucial. By doing you can identify any issues early on and address them promptly before they worsen.

We recommend contacting a certified roofing contractor who can assist you with both the inspection process and any necessary repairs for your roof.

Our Suggestion

When assessing whether your shingle roof requires repairs or replacement keep an eye out for signs such as cracked or missing shingles. These vulnerabilities can allow rain and snow to penetrate into spaces like your attic.

If you notice any stains on the ceiling or spots on the wall it could be an indication of a roof leak. Brown discoloration, on the part of the ceiling may suggest water infiltration.

If your shingles are curling or clawing it indicates that they have been exposed to heat or that the roof system itself is showing signs of aging. In this state the shingles become brittle. Are more prone to break.

3) Repair Or Replace

When deciding whether to repair or replace your roof the cost becomes a consideration. Generally repairs tend to be less expensive although it does depend on the repair cost, per foot charged by the roofing company. It’s worth noting that if you opt for repairs you may not receive discounts on materials.

So how much does roof maintenance typically cost in North Carolina? The answer depends on factors such as weather conditions, the type of roofing materials required for your roof the pricing set by the roofer for their workmanship as well as the complexity and age of your roof.

Our Suggestion

Generally, replacing missing shingles is less expensive than performing a full roof replacement. . However one potential challenge is ensuring that the new shingles match seamlessly with the existing ones. Another cost effective alternative could be performing a / replacement; however there may be some issues, with aligning new shingles with old ones.

Although a complete replacement might appear to be more costly it does offer its set of benefits.

A complete replacement of your roof offers the opportunity to upgrade to quality and energy efficient materials, which can ultimately lead to long term cost savings. Additionally it provides the chance, for an inspection of your roof uncovering any internal damage.

4) Record Keeping

Keeping records is beneficial not only for homeowners but also for residential roofers. This information can be valuable when deciding whether to repair or replace a roof.

Our Suggestion

• Note anything suspicious or potentially dangerous during your regular housekeeping and roof inspection, and then recheck it next time to see if it’s getting worse.
• Make a log anytime the roofer repairs your roof. This way, you have valuable information on what the roofer did, as well as what materials and tools they used.
• Take before and after photos of your roof and gutter systems.

Are You Looking for a Quality and Affordable Contractor for Your Next Project?

Now that you have more insight into shingle roof maintenance, we hope you now understand the process and know when to call the best roofers in Raeford, NC.

Rest assured that by choosing The Roof Mentors you are selecting the best service provider in the area. Our team consists of experts who are dedicated to exceeding your expectations and fulfilling all your roofing needs.

Roof replacement is a big step for every homeowner. We hope every replacement happens because people want to feel safer in their homes. But sometimes, the weather messes up the whole thing.

And that leads us to the first of (out of nine) frequently asked questions about roof replacement in Hope Mills, NC.

Does Insurance Cover Roof Replacements?

Yes. And no.

Yes (in most insurance companies):

• if the damage is the result of a sudden accidental event or caused by nature.

No:

• if you need to replace a roof because of poor maintenance (you can’t forget about your roof and expect insurance to cover that).

Roofs that could legally crack a cold one (21 years and older) are partially covered by insurance (if at all), so you should always check your insurance policy to be sure.

How Often Should You Replace Your Asphalt Shingle Roof in Hope Mills, NC?

The climate in Hope Mills isn’t extreme, but summers are still hot, and there’s a lot of rain. That means roofs deal with heat, UV radiation, moisture, and temperature shifts. If it’s sunny the whole day, and the rain hits, that will cool the roof quickly. It’s not a big deal (and it’s not that you can control the weather).

But you can control your roof to an extent. If you take good care of it, an asphalt shingle roof can last over 20 years. However, depending on the weather and damage suffered, shingle roofs may require replacement once every 12 years.

When Is a Roof Replacement Better Than Repairs?

We understand that you want to save money if money for a replacement comes from your pocket. However, sometimes it’s better to let the sinking ship sink and get a new one.

The short answer is – if 30% or more of your roof is damaged, it’s better to replace it.

What’s the Best Time of the Year for a Roof Replacement in Hope Mills, NC?

Summer rains aren’t rare in Hope Mills, NC. In fact, July is the wettest month. That’s not the best time for a roof replacement because you may need to reschedule several times. And it’s hot.

If we need to pick a season, then it would be the fall.

But if we need to be more specific – November is the best month to replace a residential roof in Hope Mills, NC. Then it’s least likely to rain, and temperatures are bearable.

How Long Does a Roof Replacement Take for Ordinary Homes?

Replacing a roof takes from 1 to 7 days.

It’s usually done in one day. But if the roof is very big or unusual, it can take longer.

Should I Be Home During the Roof Replacement?

If you trust your roofers, you don’t have to be home when they replace your roof.

However, many people like to stay there during the replacement to keep an eye on the workers. Some homeowners even take photos during replacement to ensure they have everything documented in case of problems.

Some roofers are annoyed by that. Our workers love it because they have nothing to fear or hide. They even pose for pictures.

Does a New Roof Lower Energy Bills?

Replacing a roof lowers energy bills. New roofs are more heat reflective (especially if you’re clever while picking a shingle color). New vent and insulation will reduce the temperature difference between the attic and the living area.

That means you won’t spend as much on air conditioning and heating.

Does Replacing Your Roof Increase House Value?

Yes, but not as much as you’d think. Still, if you want to sell your house, you can’t do it if the roof is damaged. And if you want to keep living in your home, you can’t afford to have a bad roof.

So, even if getting a new roof doesn’t increase the value of your house, it will boost your quality of life.

How to Know You Picked a Good Contractor for Roof Replacement?

If you’re thinking about a new roof, find a contractor who is:

• Highly skilled and has a proven record
• Sticks to deadlines
• Honest and doesn’t promise the impossible
• Transparent about everything they do
• Keeps you updated throughout the project

And we at The Roof Mentors have all those traits, so you can chill while we replace your roof in Hope Mills, NC.

Replacing your roof is a major investment. Quite often, homeowners would instead opt for repairs than take that big step and finally replace the entire roof. Why? Many think of it as a money-saving option, but in the long run, smaller repair jobs could lead to more damage over time, which leads to more repairs and more expenses.

Summertime is the best time of the year for a lot of home improvement projects, and taking care of your roof should be at the top of that list.

In this article, we’re looking into the five incredible benefits of replacing your roof this summer.

Improve Insulation and Ventilation

With a new roof this summer, you can count on your home being cooler and more comfortable, even without having to crank up the AC. New roofs are constructed with materials that are more thermally efficient than those 20-30 years ago. They can help you save money on your energy bills by increasing the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems.

With a new roof usually comes new and improved ventilation, which keeps it cool in the summer, prevents it from overheating, and allows the entire property to breathe. This will, in turn, also minimize the amount of moisture that accumulates in your attic and, therefore, prevent mold and mildew from developing.

Reduce Outside Noise

One of the lesser-known benefits of roof replacement is the reduction of outside noise. Your old roof has been in service probably for decades and has many visible signs of damage, such as leaks, cracks, or water stains. There are non-visible signs as well, such as auditory signs.

With a worn-down roof and missing or curling shingles, more noise is coming into your house. It is not as peaceful and calm as it should be. A full roof replacement will mean a completely sealed roofing system that prevents any leaks but also helps keep the outside noise from penetrating your home.

Higher Level of Safety

A brand new roof equals more protection for your home, simple as that. An old roof that is beyond repair could possibly collapse and injure your family members. In more extreme weather conditions, such as summer storms or strong gusts of wind, parts of the roof might crack or fall off, which is also dangerous.

Roof replacement in the summer will increase the safety of your home for the entire year, keeping it safe from all the rain, wind, even blazing heat, and scorching sunlight. It will also keep insects and other pests from entering your house.

Healthier Conditions

We previously mentioned mold and mildew developing in your attic due to poor ventilation. To add to that point, a new roof means better insulation and ventilation. With proper airflow, there is less moisture inside the house, leaving fewer chances for mold and mildew to develop. These are dangerous for your health and can cause various pulmonary and other health issues.

A well-insulated and ventilated roof keeps allergens outside your home. With a trustworthy roofing contractor in Fayetteville NC, therefore, roof replacements mean health benefits for you and your family. You will be left with a stronger roof and a home with healthier living conditions.

Affordable Solution

As we mentioned at the beginning of this article, roof replacement might seem like a huge expense, especially when compared to repair work. However, this is definitely the more affordable option in the long run because a completely new roofing system means less repair work in the future. In contrast, isolated repairs only fix part of the problem, and additional repairs will most likely be needed.

The Roof Mentors always offers its clients reasonable prices and the best quality roofing services. We believe in full transparency, and there are no shortcuts with us – we use only the finest materials and technology the market has to offer.

Are You Ready to Make the Decision?

The Roof Mentors are your go-to choice for reliable Fayetteville roof replacements, and our dedication to providing our customers with the best roofing services is unmatched.

So, if you are thinking about replacing your roof this summer, give us a call. Our advice is free, and we will help you decide on all aspects of your new roofing system. Call us today for a free roof inspection and find out what kind of new roof would be ideal for your house!

If your roof suffered a leak or other damage, you would likely be eager to contain the issue as soon as possible. Waiting too long can mean that the extent of the damage will not be limited to the roof. After all, shingles are only one aspect of a roof, and the structural supports are also important to keep your home safe. 

A roof replacement is usually the best way to avoid any further and costly damage to your home, and knowing the best way to prepare for it will give you peace of mind and make the entire process much easier.

When you hire a responsible and reliable roofing company, they will do most of the hard work – from prepping the old roof for removal to the clean-up afterward. 

But there are some key things that you, too, can do right from the start to help make your roof replacement experience go much smoother for everyone. Read on and find out what they are.
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