How Much Is The Average Cost To Replace A Roof?

Roof Repair - Feb 05,2012 - No Comment

How much is the average cost to replace a roof? For those in a hurry, I’ll first list out average costs of roof replacement – and then get into the details about what impacts and affects them.

The average cost to replace a roof depends upon the type of material used in the roofing. Asphalt shingle roofs can be replaced for $700 to $3,500 and slate runs between $20,000 and $85,000. Other materials lie somewhere in between these extremes, with wood shingles or shakes costing $10,000 to $20,000 and concrete tile roofing running between $7,500 and $20,000.

The average cost to replace a roof with metal is even higher, with steel roofing costing $6,000 to $21,000 and aluminum being twice as costly and copper setting home owners back by $25,000 to $40,000 for similar sizes roofs.

Obviously, then, the question is bound to draw a flawed answer. How much is the average cost to replace a roof? A figure derived from the above approximates will be far higher than asphalt roof replacement, and much lesser than copper roofing.

So let’s take a closer look at what factors influence the cost to replace a roof.

Roof Size

The average cost to replace a roof is clearly a function of the size or area of the roof. A larger roof will cost more than a smaller one, primarily because more material will be used in the larger construction and labor costs will be greater because it takes longer to roof a greater area.

Roofers will give you estimates based on the measured (or calculated) area of your roof, computed in ‘squares’ (100 square feet).

Roofing Material

The type of material used in roofing has an impact on the average cost to replace a roof. Commonly used material like asphalt shingles are the least expensive, and can cost under $1,000. Metal roofing has the highest upfront cost, running to $40,000 or more, though the cost distributed over the lifetime of the roof is more reasonable, and even cheaper by some analyses.

In addition to the kind of material used, the quality of material has an effect upon the average cost to replace a roof. Premium material of higher grade and better quality will cost more than basic ones. If we take asphalt shingles as an example, the difference in quality may change the rate from $50 per square to three times as much.

Roof Pitch or Slope

Steeper roofs are harder to work on and labor charges will be higher to compensate workers for this effort. The pitch of a roof is measured by dividing the length by height. Steep roofs are more expensive to replace.

Access to the Roof

Some roofs are very high, or close to tree branches or other obstacles, making it harder for contractors to access them. The labor rates charged for roof replacement will reflect this added difficulty. In such inaccessible roofs, expect to pay more for a replacement or repair job.

Number of Stories

A taller multi storied building roof is likely to cost more to replace because of access problems for the contractors. Labor time is longer as each time material is needed, it must be moved up a larger distance. Also, there is a greater degree of danger while working at heights, for which workers expect to be compensated by higher wages. Safety precautions that are mandatory by law also cost the contractor more – and they will pass along those additional expenses to the home owner.

Old Roof Tear Off

An old and worn out roof may need to be taken down before a new roof can be installed. The average cost to replace a roof will be higher if the labor costs of removal of an old roof are tacked on to the total. The same is true if extra labor is involved in repairing or replacing the supporting framework of the older roof.

Permits and Licenses

Some kinds of roofing projects require special permissions or licenses from the government or local authorities, which costs more money. In cities, this cost can be significant and boosts the average cost to replace a roof.

Solar Roofing Shingles – Use Your Roof To Generate Free Electricity

Roof Shingles - Feb 05,2012 - No Comment

Solar roofing shingles is one of most modern and advanced ways of generating electricity from our roof tops. Using flexible thin film photovoltaic cells manufacturers are fashioning roofing shingles. These shingles have been designed to do double duty – protect your home as well as convert sun’s energy into usable electricity. The power generated can help reduce your electricity consumption from the grid. Any excess power can always be sold back to the power company.

Photovoltaic cells embedded in roofing shingles are perhaps the most innovative energy solution that the industry has come up with. For long millions of consumers though eager to jump on the solar power bandwagon were put off by the thought of ugly looking solar panels cluttering up their roof-tops. Also, these roof top solar panels could void any warranty for the roofing shingles because of the conditions imposed by the makers of the shingles. So, the arrival of solar roofing shingles is like double delight for consumers.

These solar roofing shingles are non-polluting and have little impact on the environment. In a silent and steady fashion without any need for any fuel the cells absorb the light from sun to generate renewable power. Studies have shown that using solar powered shingles can reduce monthly electricity bills by 60 percent or more. That is significant saving – both for the environment and for your wallet.

In case your solar roofing shingles are generating more electricity than you can use, several states and power companies have facilities to buy back the excess power from you. In return when you need the electricity they supply it for free. The system called net metering only charges you for the extra power you use which is in excess of what you supplied to the grid.

If you are worried that solar roofing shingles may not be good protection for your roof, then you have no reason to feel that way. These building integrated photovoltaic shingles offer the same levels of longevity, protection, flexibility and versatility as asphalt shingles. They are visually very appealing and blend in with most types of roofing materials and colors. They have dark purplish tinge which merges beautifully with darker shades and adds a touch of contrast lighter shades of roofing. One more thing is that there is no need any extra protection underneath for these shingles. They are as sturdy and tough as normal shingles and can be used just like normal shingles.

The cost of installation is low and they are easily installed. There are no ugly looking wires sticking out as the wiring is integrated with the shingles which run underneath the shingles. They are light in weight. The solar roofing shingles are usually mounted to face south. This helps to maximize their energy generation potential. Even east and west facing provide up to 90 percent of energy generation potential. Depending on your energy needs you can buy enough solar roofing shingles to generate the electricity you need. It has been estimated that small homes will need 120 square feet of solar voltaic shingles while larger homes might need up to 1000 square feet.

Roofing Shingles Price – How To Avoid Being Scammed

Roof Shingles - Feb 01,2012 - No Comment

Roofing shingles price varies widely across the nation. Being up to date with trends and current rates will help you spot hucksters who try to cheat you.

This article will help, too.

“Roofing products are easily comparable, and if residential contractors use the same products, you can find out how one person’s quotations match against another one, even though they may practice in a different part of the country. A GAF roofing system is a great pick for cost with power efficiency.

One thing you must understand is that manufacturers like IKO want you to use more than just their dimensional shingles. In fact, they tie up that fact with their materials guarantee, so when you don’t get all the components from them, you may not be eligible for their warranty. GAF roofing systems require you to order 3 components with great ratings.”

Enjoy the entire report at the Roofing Shingles Prices blog.

Roofing Estimate Template – Making It Easier To Get Roof Estimates

Roof Repair - Feb 01,2012 - No Comment

A roofing estimate template would be very helpful for any roofing job. Repairing a roof or constructing a new one: both involve a lot of money. First step in any such work is to prepare an estimate of the cost. Roof estimates help the home owner to understand the amount of budget he needs for his work.

There are a lot of ways to do a roof estimate for work like replacement or upgraded roofing, especially when using commercial contractors. Hiring a roof estimator is the best way to proceed. A professional would know about the current market prices, labor costs etc. His estimate would be very accurate. Often homeowners make an improper estimate because they do not have enough knowledge about roofing and end up taking wrong decisions. The contractors take advantage of this and the homeowners end up overspending for their roof. If the homeowner has a proper estimate then he need not worry about over exceeding the budget.

If you cannot hire a professional roof estimator you can use other means like roof estimating software. This software is specifically designed for making such estimates. The various parameters like length, width and other dimensions are provided as input and the software makes the corresponding estimates. This software is also updated with latest market prices and they also calculate the accurate the pricing depending on the quantity and also the quality of the material.

A metal roofing estimate template is like a predetermined calculator for your estimate. The contractor and the homeowner use this template to explain the costs and negotiate the pricing. Often people take the trouble for having an estimate, but do not formalize it and hence their estimate gets neglected. A roof estimate template is like a tool that helps in better communication between the contractor and the homeowner as far as the numbers go. This results in proper implementation of your estimate. This also removes any confusion between the contractor and the homeowner.

A roofing estimate template is useful for both the homeowner and the contractor. A contractor is often complained about over exceeding the budget or using cheaper material. By using the template all the contractor has to do is use only the materials mentioned. Since he has already got an accurate estimate for the project he need not worry about needing more money for completion. He can also complete the job within the given time. These templates can also be used for his future projects and also for getting new projects. Using a roofing template he can communicate with the customers about his pricing and also convince them that this is the best deal they can get.

Roofing estimate template will act as a bridge between the contractor and the homeowner. This will help remove misunderstandings and it’s a win-win situation for both. Having a proper estimate template is very important. The estimate will decide the outcome of your roof. Any mistake in making the estimate would result in huge losses and hence the estimate must be perfect. Also every detail and the process involved must be mentioned. The best part is the homeowner can relax and assure himself that the project will be completed on time and without any extra budget.

IKO Roofing Shingles – Types of Shingles

Roof Shingles - Jan 29,2012 - No Comment

IKO roofing shingles are among the various options available for roofing material, coming from a brand name that is widely recognized and popular. IKO shingles look attractive and are long lasting. There are many different types of IKO roofing shingles, each of which is suitable for a specific type of roof and comes at a price range designed to suit every budget.

IKO roofing products are of high quality and the company is a leader in installing multi-layer systems for buildings. IKO’s multi-stage roofing system offers superior protection against natural elements. IKO roofing shingles also have some special features including eave protection that helps seal areas prone to water leaks.

IKO roof starters are strips that are meant to seamlessly integrate around any IKO roofing shingles. Saturated felt underlayments are designed to provide your roof with an extra lining that adds to the protection against rain and wind. And IKO roofing shingles ridge caps will provide an excellent and attractive finish to your roof and cover the profiles and peaks.

Crowne Slate Architectural Roofing Shingles

Premium IKO roofing shingles under the Crowne Slate brand are manufactured with saturated SBS bitumen. Used in rubber roofing, this material resists natural damage due to heavy wind, ice and hail, rain or extreme temperatures. These IKO roofing shingles guard against wind and rain, and carry the industry standard Class 4 impact resistance rating.

Crowne Slate shingles come with a 10 year warranty, including wind warranty for upto 90 mph. The one issue to beware of is a recent lawsuit filed against IKO for non-compliance with the warranty terms. The case is still ongoing and until then, any judgment one makes on the company’s credibility is a matter of individual opinion.

Cambridge Architectural IKO Roofing Shingles

IKO’s line of shingles called Cambridge give a textured and shaded appearance to your roof which creates the illusion of light and shadow. It gives the impression of depth that remains unmatched by any other type of roof shingles. Your home’s visual appeal goes up and the value of the building itself is enhanced through the use of these architectural shingles.

Cambridge IKO roofing shingles are very heavy and durable. They provide excellent protection against the elements, making it a heavyweight in the industry.

Marathon IKO Roofing Shingles

IKO marathon shingles are available in a wide range of sizes, colors and tones. These will accentuate the beauty and elegance of your home, making your roof the envy of your neighborhood.

The Marathon roofing shingles are manufactured from fiber glass which is sturdy, durable and fire resistant. These IKO roofing shingles are designed to last for many decades and in the off-chance that they are damaged sooner, the manufacturer’s warranty covers your installation.

IKO is a leading brand and manufacturer of quality roofing materials including roofing shingles. What started as a tiny plant in Canada now has grown into a global conglomerate with 20 manufacturing venues. IKO roofing shingles are a leading product of this brand and a popular choice for many houses.

Roof Shingles Cost – The Cost Of Shingles For Your Roof

Roof Shingles - Jan 27,2012 - No Comment

Homeowners interested in finding about roof shingles cost don’t have to go far. The most popular roofing material used in most of North America is asphalt. This is seen on almost 90 percent of roofs in USA. As it is a reasonably priced and roofing option suited to most weather conditions homeowners prefer it to cover their homes. Choosing other roofing options can be very expensive and cost 5-6 times the price of asphalt shingles. These costlier roofing solutions might last longer but not many homeowners have the money to spend fifty thousands on getting a new roof. Asphalt shingles are available for much lower price and for that money are quite long lasting.

Asphalt shingles cost around 80 cents to one dollar twenty cents per square foot. The price usually reflects quality of the product. Top notch quality commands high prices and they also last longer and are more attractive too. They give better performance over the course of their life giving you lesser problems than the low quality shingles. Expensive shingles have better longevity and will last 25-30 years compared to 15-20 for ordinary shingles.

Anyone considering roofing should be familiar with the term square. It is equal to 100 square feet area. Roof shingles cost is usually quoted in square. Roofing contractors and stores usually quote prices for roofs either laying, removing or buying in terms of square. If you can comfortably walk on your roof – low to medium pitch roof, the average cost quoted by roofing contractors for such a roof will be around $100 to $200 dollars per square for shingles. Laying costs will be separate and varies depending on location. The price of removal of old shingles per square for a medium pitch roof ranges from $175 to $250.

To arrive at the cost of installing a new asphalt roof add up the roof shingles cost and the cost of labor and you will a number somewhere between $250 to $450 per square. An average home in America measures about 40 feet x 60 feet. This will give you an area of 2400 square feet. To get the number of square, just divide 2400 by 100 and you get 24 square. So the cost of laying shingles will work out to around $6000 to $10,800. If you get your roofing done by a professional this is the average cost you will end up paying.

Points To Remember

If you are outsourcing your whole roofing job to a contractor make sure they are using quality branded asphalt shingles from reputed companies lie CertainTeed or GAF. The good quality shingles last on average 10 years more than poor quality shingles.

You can check out the prices and number of years a shingles will last. This will be found marked along side the shingles in most websites of the stores selling them. Check out the Home
Depot store to know more about this. The year ratings are a significant number that will give you an idea how many the particular roof is expected to last. Paying a little more upfront can save you from having to spend on another roof for another 10 years or so. Make sure you read up all the warranty conditions that come along with your roof and also make sure the roofer is following those mentioned as may companies null and void the warranty if the shingles are not laid according to their instructions.

If you already have a couple of layers of shingles on your roof most roofing companies will remove them before laying a new layer. The removal and disposal of old shingles will cost you money. The roof shingles cost will usually not include these costs.

If you have a sloping roof, then the square footage of the roof will be higher than that of area of the home. So, the roof shingles cost will be calculated taking into consideration the pitch considerations. For example a 1500 square foot area home will have 2100 square foot roof area for a low-medium pitch home. Also, there will wastage in any roofing project, overlaps will need to be taken into consideration. Extra shingles for ridges and valleys, edges and corners and other joints have to be factored into the roof shingles cost. Usually a wastage of 15 percent is accepted standard practice in roofing projects.

Now, more complicated roofs the percentage of wastage will proportionately go up. The complex roof with hips, vents, chimneys, dormers and other complexities not only add to increased roof shingles cost, but also in increased wastage and labor. The roofer will have to spend extra time and effort to lay the shingles the right way to prevent leakages and seepage through the many edges and joints. The higher roof laying costs is also applicable to steep roofs where roofers need to use to safety equipment and other specialized ladders to lay the roof.

Roof Repairs for Leaky Flat and Low-Sloping Roofs

Roof Repair - Jan 24,2012 - No Comment

Roof repairs can be a home owners nightmare! The biggest cause of early-onset roofing problems is failure in the early stages to find and resolve any minor faults or deterioration. On relatively low-sloped roofs this holds particularly true of roofing materials.

Adverse weather conditions require inspection of roofs, and emergency repairs may need to administered, because water leakage into a building can happen at any time (nights, weekends, holidays and so on). Be aware that it is not advisable to attempt repairs on roofs during storms because of the danger of lightning striking, and high winds, and caution should be taken when inspecting a roof after such adverse weather in case of damage to the structure, which may have left the roof in a hazardous condition.

If there is any cause for concern about the condition of the roof, contact a professional roofing contractor to arrange inspection and any repairs required. If there is no-one available, and to prevent damage to the interior of the building and its contents, emergency repairs can be undertaken. These should be as simple as possible to maximize safety of non-professional roofers, and they should be classed as temporary only – the permanent repairs being undertaken as soon as the weather allows.

If there is a manufacturer’s warranty, the manufacturer and the installation contractor should be contacted right away.

Roof Repairs – Procedures

There is a vast number of types of roofing membranes, too many to tailor to emergency roof repairs individually. If literature or advice cannot be found, or if there are no procedures available for emergency repairs, the following guidelines are suggested:

Protect the interior: Use containers to catch water leakages and plastic sheeting to protect building contents.

As much water should be removed from the roof as possible. Drains and scuppers need to be checked for any blockages and that they are functional. Excessive pooling of water on the roof causes leakage and collapse, and it is usually caused by blocked drains and/or scuppers.

While clearing debris from drains, utmost caution needs to be exercised, as draining water causes excessive suction force which can suck tools, hands and limbs quickly into the vortex and down the drain.

Locate the source of a leak: The area of leakage in the interior of the building should be inspected to locate the exact point on the roof surface above when determining the source of a leak. From here, check the condition of rooftop mechanical equipment and all flashing at terminations and penetrations. Next remove any ballast from the immediate site of leak and inspect the membrane surface for any damage. Lastly, check roofing membrane seams (laps).

PLEASE NOTE: On a roof membrane that has been installed over insulation on a structural concrete deck, it can be very difficult to locate the source of a leak, as well as over an existing membrane or vapor retarder. Where the source of the leak cannot be located, the building owner or maintenance personnel may have no other alternative than just controlling the spread of water until professional help arrives.

Perform emergency repairs: Choose roofing materials which will cause the minimalist of damage to the roofing membrane once the source of the leak is located.

Roofing Shingles and Tiles – 3 Basic Types

Roof Shingles - Jan 23,2012 - No Comment

Roofing shingles come in many different styles, shapes, colors and patterns. But every roof has but three basic shingle (or tile) types. This article explains the three basic types of shingles and tiles which are produced. We’re not talking about specific products here, simply the types of each product.

Starters Shingles and Starter Tiles

Starter shingles are, as their name implies, the starting shingles of a Roof System. They are installed on top of the Drip Edge/Rake Edge and on top of the Leak Barriers and begin the overlapping pattern for the remainder of Shingles (or tiles) on the roof. Simply put: One single row of starter shingles is installed everywhere your roof ends, ie: in the same areas as with Metal Drip Edge and Rake Edge.

As with every other part of a Roof System, different types of starter shingles are offered by many different manufacturers. Fortunately for you, you don’t need to select what type of starter shingle to use on your roof, because the manufacturer of the Field Shingle you chose chooses for you. As long as your Roofing Contractor follows the manufacturers recommendations when selecting starter shingles, you’re in good hands.

A note of interest: starter shingles set the beginning pace for the rest of the Shingles on your roof. If the starter shingles are installed straight, then the installation technician will be off to a good start. Also, starter shingles usually need to be installed off set from the remaining Shingles on your Roof System to allow for a proper overlap of the remaining shingles or tiles.

Another easy aspect for you about starter shingles is some manufacturers produce starter shingles which can be used with the Field Shingles of their competitors. In other words, some starter shingles are interchangeable with the products of different manufacturers. Not all starter shingles however are interchangeable. To avoid any ‘unpleasantness’, double check with your roofing contractor that they will be installing a proper starter shingle.

Field Shingles and Field Tiles

Shingles, or “field” Shingles are the main component of your Roof System. It’s the part you see first when looking from the street. And it’s the part which primarily keeps the weather out of your home. Many differing types of shingles are available to choose from, ranging between the traditional Asphalt, Wood Shake and Slate/Tile, to the relatively newer Metal, Rubber and environmentally friendly Plastic Types. Manufacturers are even experimenting with new Green Roof Systems which do not have shingles at all but are instead composed of real dirt and vegetation!

Dry climates generally reduce the effectiveness of Wood Shingles in Calgary and Concrete Tiles are relatively expensive and require a very specific “taste” of design appeal. Rubber and Plastic tiles are relatively newer in the market and still gaining market share. It’s true also that many home owners are resistant to installing metal on their roof, although metal roof systems are quite true to their promise of reliability and curb appeal. This leaves Asphalt shingles as the most popular tile and shingle option for Roofing Systems, with asphalt being the most popular due to its lower cost and long reliable track record.

Asphalt and Metal Shingles have recently adapted in design to match the luxurious ‘layered’ look that Wood Shingles used to offer. Recent advances in technology have allowed more and more Asphalt and Metal shingle designs. Field shingles are installed overtop the Starter Shingles we just discussed. They take the brunt of the weather and are the ‘meat and potatoes’ a Roof System.

Without good Field Shingles, your roof doesn’t stand a chance. Of course, all components of a Roof System are vitally important, however it’s the Field Shingles which are the most visual, the most costly and receive the most attention on your Roof.

Ridge Cap Shingles and Ridge Cap Tiles

The final touch. Ridge Shingles are to your roof like a picture frame is to a picture. What kind of frame did they put around the Mona Lisa in the Louvre? I’ll bet you it wasn’t purchased at Wal-Mart… And what a difference it makes to have a good quality ridge shingle installed. The bottom line is, visually appealing Roof Systems include visually appealing ridge shingles.

If you are not concerned with the visual appeal of your Roof System, then save a buck and use a standard cut shingle for your ridge caps. If however you’d like your house to look more like your castle…use a definitive edge ridge shingle such as an IKO Ultra Hip or a GAF/Elk z-ridge. The price difference between a regular ridge shingle and a more visually appealing ridge shingle on a standard home is around $400 – $800.

Important note: Higher quality ridge shingles typically require special installation procedures when installed. It may be wise to mention this to whoever you choose to install your roof. Ridge shingles are located at areas of your roof most vulnerable to wind damage and therefore subject blowing off if they are not installed properly. Ask your roofing contractor what sort of Special Installations are required for installing high quality ridge shingles.

This article is written by Eric Gilbert-Williams, owner of The Roof Hospital located in Calgary Alberta.

Visit the Calgary Roofing Contractor website

The Roof Hospital is a Calgary Roofing Contractor Company focused exclusively on roof repairs and replacements.

With 24/hr 7/day service, lifetime guarantee’s on workmanship and with a deep understanding of the complete roof system, The Roof Hospital is a safe and reliable for Calgary roofing projects.

If you would like to learn more about A Complete Roof System, visit the Calgary Roofing Contractors website

The Roof Hospital also serves the Cochrane, Airdrie, Okotokes, Chestermere and Langdon area.

Be Proactive. Choose a reliable roofing contractor for your project, work with them to select quality products and back yourself with a strong warranty.

Be Proactive. Let Us Help.

By Eric Gilbert

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