Roof replacement FAQ’s – your go-to helpdesk

A building needs regular maintenance to prolong its life. And perhaps the most important part of the building that people often don’t account for is the roof. Not only does the roof enhances the aesthetics of your house, but it also protects the building and its inhabitants from rain and other disturbances. Thus, it is important to get roof repair and roof replacement done as and when needed. Don’t know when and how to replace your roof? Here’s a complete list of all the questions you may have regarding roof replacement.

1.How do you know that you need a roof replacement?

There are many signs that you need a new roof. Look out for these indicators:

• The edges of the roof shingles are curved
• There are bald spots on the roof where granules are missing
• The roof is cracked
• When moss or algae is growing on your roof
• The roof is worn out

If you notice these signs, it is time for the replacement of the roof.

2. How often should the roof be replaced?

Depending on the material used in making the roof, and local climate (temperature and humidity), it is advisable to replace your roof every 20 to 25 years in India. 

3. How often do slate roofs need to be replaced? 

Slate roofs need not be replaced in an entire lifetime. This is because they can last up to 150 years in most weather conditions. However, they do need to be repaired regularly when they get cracked or slide over.

4. How often do metal roofs need to be replaced?

Metal roofs have a lifespan of 50 years. It is recommended that they are checked annually from the 46th year onwards so that you can assess if you need to repair or replace the roof.

5. When do Asphalt roofs need to be replaced?

Asphalt roofs last for around 30 years in tropical climates before they need to be replaced. If you have applied asphalt shingles over an existing layer, they need to be replaced within 15-17 years.

6. How often do Terracotta roofs need to be replaced?

Terracotta roofs are more common in villages in areas that are hot throughout the year. They are very beneficial, one of the reasons being that they don’t need to be replaced before 70-75 years.

7. What is included in a roof replacement?

The roof replacement process involves quite a few steps:

• Clearing the whole property
• Tearing off the old roof
• Evaluating the condition of any pipeline or chimney that may need repairs or proper concealment
• Installing the new roof material
• Roof inspection

A roofing service company may or may not help you with the first step, but the rest is most likely to be borne by them when it comes to the replacement of the roof.

8. Can you put a second shingles layer on the first one instead of tearing the roof?

While putting a second layer of roof shingles over the first one is a common process instead of a roof replacement, several studies have shown that this method can be very unsafe and is not a permanent solution. This is because removing the whole layer allows you to assess the situation of the wood below and repair the damages. If the wood is unstable, a second layer will only add to the weight and increase the risk of a collapsing roof. In addition, the second layer is less likely to properly attach, and thus it is not a good roof replacement technique.

9. How much does a roof replacement cost?

The roof replacement cost depends on the damage to the old roof, the material you use for the new roof, and the square foot area of the roof that needs to be replaced.  Ensure that you ask different contractors as they are likely to give different quotations. Select one that is a certified roofing service that falls well within your budget.

10. Do you need a roofing service for getting a roof replacement?

Yes. Roofing service is always necessary for roof replacement, as it is too dangerous to be done all by yourself. The roofing service has professionals who know how to go about the process safely and in the correct manner. You may think that it is costly for a roofing service to do the roof replacement, but nothing compares to the cost of injury to you.

11. What is roof inspection?

While roof inspection in the US or UK means that a government inspector checks that your new roof is safe and sound, in India, several private companies offer this service. A roof inspection is not very known here, but as important.

12. Can you stay in the house during a roof replacement?

It is advised to not stay in the house during a roof replacement, or leave your pets there. Replacement of the roof is a very dangerous process. Moreover, you cannot stay in a topless house. We hope this list of roof replacement FAQs has shed light on the when and how of it. For high-quality roofs, head out to Dura Roof.