Suggestions on planning your residential roofing project

Get helpful advice on how to plan your residential roofing project. Here are a few tips on what to expect, even if you plan to hire a professional.
After years of keeping your home nice and dry, the time has come to replace that trusty roof. Maybe you’ve started to see leaks or have shingles that are cracked, broken, curled or simply missing. Whatever the reason, all roofs will need to be replaced at some point. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your residential roofing project.

In some cases – if the conditions are right – you can lay new shingles over old ones. If done correctly, this can look just as good as starting from scratch. It can also save you money by avoiding the cost of a tear-off. Unless you have past roofing experience, it’s best to get a professional inspection to determine your most optimal options.

There are a wide range of roofing shingles, tiles and even sheets in various colours and styles. You will need to consider your home’s unique architectural features while also checking fire and local building codes.

Finding materials proven to be durable and effective in your area is important. You want an installation that will stand up to the harsh Canadian climate. Sure, the longer-lasting, more wind-resistant materials will cost more but it will be well worth it.

If you’re going with shingles, the following information will give you a general idea of how much you will need.

• Three bundles of standard 30-year shingles will cover one square (approximately 100 square feet)
• One bundle of 30-year shingles will cover one sheet of plywood (4’ x 8’)
• The amount of coverage you get can vary depending on the brand you use
• Roofing materials are typically sold by the square (100 square feet as mentioned above)

How about some simple math to help determine the amount of materials you need? All you need to do is divide your total square footage by 100 and then round up to the next whole number. For example, if you have a roof with 2,450 square feet, that would convert to 25 squares.

When hiring a roofer, do your homework. Make sure they are fully covered with liability insurance and have the proper workers’ compensation coverage. Make sure you know who is doing the work as many will subcontract.

These tips should help start the planning process for your roofing project. Remember, when in doubt, go with an experienced professional.