New Roof Cost Can Be Expensive

If you choose to get a new roof it is one of the largest investments you will make. Not only will you have the added security of a safe and sound new roof, you will lower your energy costs, and be able to resell your home at a much greater value.

New roofs can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $50,000. It all depends on the square footage of your home, roofing materials used, if you do it yourself, or chose a roofer, and where you are located. Obviously the more square footage your home has the higher the cost will be to replace your roof.

Square Footage A Factor In New Roof Cost

It will cost less to replace a 1,500 square foot house compared to a 3,500 square foot house. The cost to replace a roof per square foot ranges between $60 and $900 per square foot. This pricing reflects materials and labor. The cost is less if you do it yourself.

What Material Will Be Used For The New Roof?

You also need to make sure to factor in any extra material that may be needed. So it is safe to add in a buffer of an additional 15% of the homes total square footage in your calculations. Next you have to factor in the materials you want to use to replace your roof with.

The Top 5 New Roofs & Their Cost In Houston

The five most desired materials for new roofs in the Houston right now are tile, slate, asphalt, wood shake, and metal.

Tile Roof Cost

Tile roofs come in either clay or concrete tiles. They range between $250 and $450 per square foot. A lot of the cost comes from the fact that they can be very heavy and require roofers to add extra framing to support them. The bonus is that they are easy to repair or replace and are extremely resistant to fire. They are not the cheapest roofing option but they are not the most expensive either.

Slate Roof Cost

Slate is one of the most expensive roofing options on the market, at around $600 per square foot, but it has become very popular with homeowners recently. As with tile, slate is very heavy and requires extra framing to be put in, making it expensive. The other reason slate is so much more expensive is because it is extremely durable. Slate roofs have been known to last over 100 years and the average lifespan put on them is anywhere between 50-100 years. You will be lucky to get 20 years out of an asphalt roof. Slate is durable and can be recycled, making it very economically friendly. Not to mention the look of a slate roof can be absolutely breathtaking.

Asphalt Roof Cost

Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material in the United States, and has been for over 100 years. They are also the cheapest roofing option coming between $60 and $130 per square foot. They are easy to put in place, lightweight, and have an enormous amount of colors to choose from. Though the dilemma to asphalt shingles is that they do not last very long. Most roofers give them a lifespan between 20 and 25 years.

Wood Shake Roof Cost

Wood shake shingles are another option for homeowners to think about when looking for options to replace their roof. They are a little pricier then asphalt, but less expensive then tile and slate. Wood shake costs between $90 and $160 per square foot. Just as the name suggests this roofing material is made up of wood and is not fire resistant. A coating can be applied but it is still not 100% reliable. Some parts of the country will not allow wood shakes on roofs due to the fire hazard they can pose. They are very attractive to look at and this is why homeowners will still choose to pick wood shingles over other roofing materials. Their life span is similar to asphalt but a little longer to be between 25 and 30 years.

Metal Roof Cost

Metal is the last roofing material that most homeowners are choosing in the United States today. It has quickly become the fastest growing roofing material chosen by homeowners choosing to replace their roofs. Metal ranges between $90 and $900 per square foot. It depends on the type of metal you choose. Copper is the most expensive option coming in around the $900 per square foot mark.

There are much more reasonable metal options though that are just as durable as copper. Since metal is reflective it bounces off the heat of the sun and keeps the home cooler. They are extremely energy efficient and durable. Metal roofs are also great in harsh weather conditions like rain and heavy winds. They are fire resistant as well, which has made them the number one choice with many homeowners in areas where wildfires are rampant. The only downside to a metal roof is that it can get dented and dinged up if there is a heavy hail storm.

Labor Calculated In New Roof Cost

After deciding on the roofing material you want to use, you must decide if you want to tackle this project on your own of hire a professional. In most roofing cost breakdowns the materials make up about 40% of the total cost, while the other 60% is the labor involved in breaking down your old roof and putting on the new one.

A Roofing Contractor Can Save You From Costly Errors

Replacing the roof yourself may save you over half the cost of a new roof but there are some things to think about before deciding.

First, if you do not install your roof properly the first time it will cost you much more in the long run. Not only might you have to pay a professional roofer anyway, you may incur damages to your home. If a roof is not installed properly water, bugs, or critters can cause severe damage to your roof and home.

Secondly, a professional roofer will offer you a warranty for an extended period of time in case something does happen to the roof. If you do it yourself no such warranty exists and it will be you having to get back up there and take care of any issues. There are also safety issues. Professional roofers are used to being up there and have safety measures in place. You can easily loose your balance or accidentally impale yourself with a nail.

Lastly, the cost of a new roof depends on the part of the country you live in. A new roof in Ohio will cost half as much for the same home in California for example. Roofing supplies cost more in states like California and New York as well as permits. Another cost that is higher in certain states is environmental taxes. All of these things should be accounted for when thinking about purchasing a new roof.

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Bad Weather Causing Roof Leak

A major weather event and bad weather can easily cause roof leaks making you rush to figure out some sort of roof leak repairs strategy. Hail, rain, and wind can cause major damage to your roof. You may not be able to spot the damage but our professional roofing experts can.

Hailstorms typically do not last long but they can cause severe, long-term damage to your roof. Large hail can cause dents, pockmarks, or even holes in your shingles. Hailstones can also knock shingle granules loose. These granules are very important because they are the first line of defense against rain and sun damage. Even small amounts of hail can cause permanent cosmetic damage to your roof.

Even Rain Can Cause You To Need Roof Leak Repairs

That’s right, even rain can cause severe damage to your roof leading you to needing emergency roof leak repairs especially if your roof is prone to leaving standing water. Without proper drainage the water will be left sitting and rotting out the shingles and roof deck. Moisture can get locked in and cause molding issues to the underlayment of the roof.

Also, if gutters are blocked or not properly installed the rainwater can accumulate and cause water damage to the roof.

Roof Leak From Wind

Wind is another risk factor that might require a roof leak repair, major roof repair, and / or roof replacement. Strong, fierce winds can tear or remove shingles. This exposes the waterproofing materials, underlayment, and roof deck, which can lead to permanent damage caused by the elements it will be exposed to.

Wind comes in many different forms. It can come in short bursts or be full on hurricane force winds. Any type of wind can cause shingles to curl or separate from the other shingles. Shingles are purposefully placed in an overlapping pattern as to maintain a watertight seal. When the wind separates these shingles major damage can occur to the roof.

Roof material fatigue and crack formations can occur. Also after a wind storm debris can end up on your roof. Small branches and large branches can cause dents and holes in your shingles, which can lead to major damage down the road. Any of these major weather event possibilities is a good reason to have a roof inspection, roof leak repairs, and / or new roof replacement.
 

Houston Heat & UV Rays Cause Roof Damage

Let’s face it, if you live in Houston roof damage can be caused by extreme heat and UV rays from the sun in the summer. Even the most durable roofs are affected by heat and UV rays. Over time the roof degrades and is more open to damage by fungi, algae and bacteria. Algae and bacteria are found much more often in humid states such as Texas. They are usually seen as the dark spots on an otherwise light colored roof meaning you need roof leak repairs.

Increased temperatures can cause chemical reactions that start to loosen and soften the polymers that glue everything into place. Sudden temperature changes can cause severe stress to the integrity of your roof, such as a rain shower on a hot day. Over time this can cause a roof leak.

Roof Leak Repairs Caused By Humidity

Humidity and dew can cause the wood to swell and then the heat in the middle of the day will cause the wood to shrink. This type of damage is hard to see and is a very good reason to have a roof inspection completed throughout the year to insure you don’t need roof leak repairs.

It’s better to catch roof damage before a leak occurs. Catch it when it needs minor roof leak repairs than to find out your roof has been leaking for months or even years requiring major roof leak repairs. Putting off small roof leak repairs can cost you thousands down the road with the high potential of needing a new roof.

Texas Heat Damaging Roof & Roof Rafters

Strong heat due to the hot sun bearing down on your home can cause roof rafters to crack, break, and stretch. It can also cause the same effects to your joists, support beams and decking. This will allow water to seep in through your roof and into your home. This could lead to mildew and mold spots inside your house.

The strong heat from the sun can rise in your crawlspace or attic and lead to the shingles nails popping out. Shingles can also shrink and curl allowing weak spots to occur on your roof. If you address roof damage issues quickly there is less of a chance you will run into needing roof leak repairs, needing a new roof or needing a new roof with roof support beams due to catastrophic roof collapse.

Roof Leaks

It is scary to see those first spots of water on your ceiling or to see water actually poring down into your home. This is when immediate roof leak repairs are needed. You do not want to wait and risk the possibility of incurring further damage to your home.

If the water is dripping, grab whatever you have available to contain that leak, whether it be a bucket, garbage can, or any other type of container. Then immediately call for roof leak repairs.

Outside on your roof there are signs to look for. A roof that is either leaking or getting close to leaking will have visibly loose material and extreme wear, especially around the vents and chimneys. There will be missing and / or broken shingles. The shingles will be peeling and rotting. The shingles may also appear to be buckled or blistered.

Inspect Your Roof For Leaks And Call A Professional Roofer

Whatever the case may be, any of these signs are reason enough to go ahead and call a roofing professional to come out and inspect the roof. A quality roof inspection will give you peace of mind.

Our roofing professionals will give a clear plan of action as to how you should move forward. Whether it is simple roof leak repairs or if a whole new roof needs to be installed, our roofing professionals are here to help. Learn more about roofs and how to keep you home energy efficient from the Department Of Energy.

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A-Frame Roof Types

We will begin with the A-frame style of roof. A-frames are actually the roof and walls of the house combined. The sharp triangular shape that has the appearance of an “A” is how the term A-frame was coined. The steep angles that begin at the foundation and come together at the top of the home do so in a letter “A” shape. This type of roof stretches all the way to the ground and has steep angles. It is a unique design that is great for smaller homes and gives a more modern look.

Bonnet Types Of Roofs

Next we have the bonnet style of roof. Bonnet roofs are sloped with two sides sloping outwards at a slightly smaller angle. The purpose of this design is to give more coverage to a lounge area or porch. Bonnet roofs are some of the most typical roofs around and they can resemble a regular sloped roof. Bonnet roofs have eaves that are extended over the sides of the home to avert water from building up around the flashing of your house.

V-Roofs (Butterfly Types Of Roofs)

As mentioned above with the A-frame roof, there is another style of roof that resembles a letter and that is the butterfly roof. Butterfly roofs have a V shape to them and are also known as “V roofs”. The two sides of the roof extend upwards from the center, making it look like a butterflies wings, or as some prefer to say, the letter V. This style is beneficial for homeowners looking to have high ceilings on either side of the home. Butterfly roofs can be quite eye-catching. The downside is that you have to maintain and inspect the center of the roof often to make sure there is no pooling of water, collection of leaves, tree limbs, or other debris. Famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright was a big fan of the butterfly roof, so most homes that adorn them were built in the mid twentieth century.

Clerestory Roof Type

Another eye-catching roof style is the clerestory roof. Known for all of the windows it features. The roof itself has two sides that slope down and are combined by a shorter, vertical wall. The wall is what is equipped with the windows and it can be one continuous window, or broken into sections. The windows can be vertical or horizontal depending upon your preference. It allows tons of natural light in without diminishing your privacy. Clerestory roofs have been used since ancient times but have really made a comeback recently in the more modern home category.

Cross Gable Roofs

Cross gable roofs on the other hand have been popular in the United Sates for centuries and continues to be one of the most popular styles of roof. A gable is the triangular shaped portion of the wall that sits between the edges of the converging roof pitches. The result of this creates an L or T shape to the roof. Many of the luxury styled, larger homes, feature the cross gable roof. The roof shape and all of its angles allows for a more intricate and unique design style for inside the home. The most famous house with a cross gable roof is the House of Seven Gables, where Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote his book named after the home.

Curved Roof Types

Stunning curved roofs are one of the more recently added roof styles that have started showing up in the United States. A lot of contemporary homes feature this new, curved roof design. The reason for this newly added style is the fact that we have not had the tools, resources, or materials needed for curved roofs, until now. The biggest benefit to a curved roof is that it can create a much larger attic space to add an additional room, or create more storage space. Curved roofs are also easily customized, so homeowners can ensure they have a unique roof.

Dome Types Of Roofs – Less Common Roof Type

One of the least common roofs to be found from this list is the dome roof. Dome roofs do not need the usual columns or support posts to keep it up and secure. These types of roofs use physics by utilizing the laws of tension, compression, normal force, and gravity to stay sturdy and intact. Dome roofs hold up better in snow, rain, hail, and high, hurricane level winds. They also are extremely energy efficient and can regulate the temperature in your home without burning excess energy. The downside is that dome roofs can be an eyesore. They are not the most aesthetically pleasing style of roof and finding a contractor or roofer to build you one is also a difficult task.

Dormer Roof

A dormer roof is any roof that features a dormer window. Dormer windows are specifically windows that are set vertically within a structure while protruding through a sloped roof. Most roof styles can be classified as dormer roofs if a dormer window is installed. The benefit to these types of windows is that they allow in lots of additional sunlight into attics. If you want to utilize your attic as an additional living area then dormer roofs are a great option.

Flat Roof (Most Common In Commercial Roofing Scenarios)

Flat roof styles are just that, flat. They do have a little elevation in certain areas to help with drainage but overall are flat. To qualify as a flat roof, your roof must have, at most, a pitch of ten degrees or less. Flat roofs are more common among businesses but there are homes with flat roofs. Most of these homes are located in dryer climates that do not get much rainfall, like New Mexico or west Texas. The benefit to a flat roof is that any repair needed is usually small and will typically not cost that much. If you live in an area with a decent amount, or a lot of rainfall then flat roofs can become quite burdensome. Water can pool and cause water damage or small holes can leak and then you have a much bigger problem with water damage in your home.

Gambrel Roofing Types

Gambrel roofs look like typical barn roofs and some people even call them a barn roof over a gambrel roof. They have two sides with slopes on each side. The upper slope on each side is shallower and placed over the other slope, which is steeper. When they were first built in the United States they were called Dutch roofs since they originated from over there. The benefit to gambrel roofs is that the high slopes makes room for much more livable space, including an area that could be turned into a loft. Hip roofs are very similar to gable roofs.

Hip-Roof – Common Roof Type

Unlike the gable roof though, a hip roof has four slopes and may or may not come to a point in the middle. They are also more expensive then most other roofing options but they can come in many different variations for a unique, one of a kind look. Hip roofs hold up exceptionally well to high winds and snow. Due to the slopes in the roof, snow will just slide right off.

Beautiful Types Of Roofs – The Jerkinhead Roof

The jerkinhead roof is a uniquely designed roof that can attract a lot of attention. It shares some of the same characteristics or a gable and hip roof but certainly has its own flare. Jerkinhead roofs have four slopes like the hip roof, but at least one, up to two of the slopes are clipped, or shortened. This is what gives the jerkinhead roof its look. They are great for withstanding high winds.

Mansard Roof

Mansard roofs are named after the famous French architect Francois Mansart. These roofs slopes are configured so that they divide from the pitch of the roof where the shallow slope sits atop the steeper slope. Mansard roofs have much steeper slopes then other roof types and are more squared off looking. These roofs are great for creating more space inside a house and naturally allow in more sunlight. Another type of roof that looks like a letter is the M-shaped roof.

These roofs are gable roofs with a double pitch instead of one pitch. Two load bearing walls support the roof while two of its slopes meet in the middle. The other two slopes fan out and down, forming the “M” shape. These roofs can be very hard to maintain since it has two pitches that can collect water and debris that can cause serious damage to the home if not monitored often. It is essential to have a gutter system in place with an M-shaped roof.

Parapet Roof

Parapet roofs are basically flat roofs but they have the walls of the building protruding above the rooftop by a couple of feet, along the perimeter of the roof. The parapet roof provides better protection from the chances falling off the roof. They also allow for additional outdoor living space to be put in on top of the roof or for a great outdoor garden.

The Pyramid Roof

A pyramid roof is essentially a hip roof that has been placed on top of a square shaped building. They are triangular in shape, just like a pyramid and the slopes come to a point at the top. The shape of a pyramid roof makes it very durable in areas that have a lot of high winds, tornadoes, or hurricanes.

Saltbox Roof

The saltbox roof is mostly found on older, colonial homes. Recently they have become more popular to use on garages and commercial, or industrial building. Saltbox roofs have their pitch either in the middle, or off to the side a little, with one slope being longer then the other. They are not very popular among homeowners so you will not find them on newer homes.

Normally used for Schools, The Sawtooth Types Of Roofs

Sawtooth roofs are typically used on schools, commercial building, or factories, but some can be found on homes. The sawtooth roof has a series of one-pitch roofs with a very steep side that is glazed and purposely faced away from the sun. This allows for natural light to enter the building but reduces the heat that direct sunlight would produce.

Skillion Roof

Skillion roofs are roofs that have a single flat surface with a wall at the end that lifts the roof to form an angle. They are different from flat roofs because flat roofs have at most a pitch of 10 degrees while skillion roofs have at least a 20-degree angle. A skillion roof leans to one side more then the other allowing for proper run off of water and snow.

What Types Of Roofs Do You Prefer?

What types of roofs do you like or do you like multiple roof types? If you like multiple roofs then you’re in luck! Another roof type is the combination roof! Just as it sounds, the combination roof is any combination of the roofs listed above. Most roofs in Houston are combination roofs. Learn more about types of roofs and more at the Texas Department of Insurance.

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Sun Causing Roof Damage

When it comes to the sun there are various ways that it can damage your roof. First and foremost the UV rays from the sun can cause damage to a roof. UV rays can start to deteriorate the protective layer on your shingles. This causes the shingle to crack, crumble, peel, and decay. You will notice this when you begin to see pieces of shingle in your gutters on in your yard. Damaged shingles will not be able to protect the layers under them, which can lead to some serious water damage.

Sun Bleaching, Initially Cosmetic Damage

Bleaching is also caused by UV ray exposure. You will know that your roof has suffered bleaching by looking at the color of your roof. If it has become lighter over time then your roof has suffered damage from UV rays. The darker a roof is the easier it is to tell if bleaching damage has occurred.

Bleaching can cause the integrity of your roof to be in jeopardy and make it more susceptible to damage by tree limbs or hail.

Excessive Heat To Roof

Another problem the sun can cause is damage due to excessive heat. Your roof is constantly changing temperatures throughout the day. When the sun is at its hottest the roof is expanding but when the sun goes down and the air cools your roof begins to contract. This constant process leads your roofs shingles to develop cracks that will allow water to seep in if not repaired quickly enough.

Warped shingles is another indicator that your roof is being exposed to too much sun. The heat from the sun can cause the edges of your shingles to warp and curl in. If you notice this it is certainly time to call a professional roofer to come and either repair or replace your roof.

Wind, A Major Contributor Of Roof Damage In Houston

Wind is another weather event that can create some serious problems with your roof. The wind itself can lift up or remove shingles, and it usually affects the edges of the roof where roofing materials are not as secured. Over time, strong wind events can compromise your roof by generating stress points that weaken the overall structural integrity of your roof.

Strong Winds Will Knock Tree Limbs Onto Your Roof

The wind can also do damage by carrying tree limbs, other random debris, and by downing power lines onto your roof. Tree limbs and power lines can tear up your roof in a matter of moments.

How To Spot Roof Damage

There are signs to look for when assessing if your roof has suffered wind damage.

• You will be able to easily spot if shingles are missing from your roof. They may be in the vicinity of your house, in your yard, or even in your neighbor’s yard.
• Look for the granules that cover your shingles. They are most often found in your gutters or where your downspouts empty out.
• Spotting chimney damage is another clear indication that your roof has suffered wind damage. You chimney may look crooked or even cracked. Or it may have missing flashing, which is what prevents the water from entering your home.
• Peeling and curling shingles can be caused by severe winds blowing them too hard.
• The fascia and or soffit, which are part of your roofs structure, may be clearly damaged. Their main job is to keep water away from the home so it is essential to have them repaired immediately if damaged.
• Lastly, take a look inside your home. If you notice wet spots, peeling paint, or discoloration on the ceiling and or walls then you definitely suffered damage by the wind.

Roof Damage From Strong Rain

Roof damage from rain is one of the top weather events that can completely devastate your roof and your home. Rain can cause damage to your roof a few different ways.

First it can rain too hard, too fast, or so much that your roof doesn’t have the ability to shed all of that water. All of these types of rain can lead to the degrading of the structural integrity of your shingles, underlayment, and roof deck. If this happens water can enter your home and this is when mildew and mold can take shape.

Any moisture that enters your home and is not properly dried out can turn into mildew and mold. Mildew and mold can start to grow under your roof and then quickly spread throughout the whole framing of your home. This can create some serious health issues for you and your family. Luckily, they usually create a smell or odor that can be easily recognized.

Smell For Mildew

If you think you smell even a hint of mildew or mold call a professional roofer today. Another danger to having mildew and mold in your home is that it attracts gross insects like roaches and termites.

Clogged Gutters

Your gutters and downspouts can also take a significant amount of damage when there is severe rainfall. If they have not been properly cleaned then they will get clogged and can cause water to enter your home. They can even come loose with all of the weight and pressure from the amount of rain.

Hail Causes Millions In Roof Damage Every Year

Hail is yet another weather event that can cause great damage to your roof. In fact, hail causes millsions in roof damage every year. Hail happens when rainwater falls and freezes. These frozen ice balls are falling at a high rate of speed and create all kinds of destruction.

The Signs You Have Roof Damaged Caused By Hail

There are many signs to look for in order to determine the amount of hail damage your roof received. First, you should take a look at the surface of your roof. Shingles may be missing or gone. You will easily be able to see small dents, or divots on your shingles.

The granules that consist of the protective layer on your shingles will be stripped and located in your gutters or downspouts. You will notice little round back areas, or bruises on your roof. Your gutters will be all dinged up and dented. Depending on how large the hail was or how strong it was hitting you may even end up with holes in your roof.

Repair Roof Damage Fast

Whatever weather event may have damaged your roof it is best repair roof damage fast by calling a professional roofer to come and help you determine whether your roof can be repaired or if it will need replacing. Find out if your roof damage is covered by insurance.

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