You’re thinking to yourself, I need a new roof? Really?
You’re probably also thinking…
How can I know for sure that my roofer is giving me their honest opinion?
We get it. I’ve been there myself. Many times.
People often think because I’m a contractor, I know everything about working on a home. Even though I’ve been working on roofs and the exterior of houses for about three decades in Westchester, NY, I don’t know it all.
So I’ve been in your shoes.
That’s why it’s so important that you learn to spot the signs of an honest roofer.
You’re reading this, so I know you’re just like me.
You want to protect your home, and your family.
We want to make sure you get the most bang for your buck, regardless of who you hire.
We are neighbors after all.
So, that leads us to the big question about your new roof.
When exactly should you get a new roof, instead of repairing it?
Unfortunately, there’s no answer I can give you that works 100% of the time.
I’m sorry. I wish there was.
Having to give that answer always pains me. It can be confusing as a homeowner in Westchester. That’s why we wanted to give you a few tips, to help you out.
It really comes down to a cost benefit analysis. That means, if you spend a little bit of money right now, can the roofer guarantee how long the repair will last.
Also, how expensive is the repair. If it’s costly, and your roof is older, it might not be worth doing the repair. Get a new roof.
If you have an older roof, there’s a lot to think about. Your roofer should give you an honest assessment. They should help you weigh the cost of the repair and length of time that it will hold up against the cost of the new roof.
But then that leads us to another question. How do you know if your roofing contractor’s recommendation to replace your roof is genuine?
Or, are just trying to take advantage of you?
These are common questions on every homeowners mind. The best way to prevent your contractor from taking advantage of you is to educate yourself, and ask lots of questions.
So congratulations! You know enough to know that you need to learn just a little bit more.
What we like to tell our fellow Hudson Valley homeowners like you, is this.
First, judge the contractor. Then, judge their opinion.
5 Factors to Consider: new Roof vs. Repair
- The age of your roof
- How much the repairs will cost
- The length of time you will be in the home
- Your personal financial condition
- The extent of the current damage
Get the Facts Before Deciding on a New Roof
When a roofer recommends a new roof, ask why. Even if you think your roof definitely needs to be replaced, you should ask.
Hearing their explanation, even if obvious will help you judge their credibility.
An experienced roofer should be able to give you a clear answer.
If you’re living in the Hudson Valley, and own your own home, your smart. So, put those brains to work.
Make sure the explanation makes sense. Then, if they’re recommending replacement, get two more estimates unless you’ve worked with the roofer before.
Or, if they have high quality reviews, photos of recent work, and top-notch qualifications. You have to be certain your home will be safe during your roofing project..
Don't Trust Just One Roofer
Unless you have developed a relationship built on trust with your roofer, don’t take their word for it. Do your research.
When researching your new roof, think about your options. Ask lots of questions when talking to roofers. See what types of ideas they have for new designs, materials.
Ask if there are materials that can help save you money on things like heating costs. A good roofer can find a way to deliver a quality roof, that offers you great value.
But, they still find a way to deliver your new roof at a fair price.
When replacing your roof, consider opinions from professionals.
Also, now that you’re learning what to look for, trust your gut.
The way a roofer is able to answer your questions should tell you something. If they have clear, concise answers, they probably have your best interest at heart.
Visually Inspect Your Roof
Take a look for yourself. You might not be a licensed roofer, like MCAS Roofing & Contracting…
..but you don’t have to be.
From the comfort of the ground, see what your roof looks like.
If you can’t see great, use a pair of binoculars.
You’re going to want to look for a few things.
Curling or discolored shingles
If your shingles are very dry, discolored or curling…
…you probably need a new roof replacement.
The shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against the crazy weather conditions throughout Westchester County, NY and the surrounding area.
Once your shingles dry out, you might get leaks. That’s bad. Once a little water gets in, it can lead to big problems for your roof and your wallet.
We want to stop that from happening. The longer we can make your roof last, by catching problems early, the better.
Everyone likes saving money!
Missing shingles
If you find a shingle on your property, that means it blew off your roof.
So, you should make sure to search your property after high winds.
Also, look for signs of missing shingles on the roof itself.
Once the shingles start to blow off, it can be a sign you need a roof replacement. But, again. Catch it early, and call an honest roofer that tells you the trust, you might be okay.
Visible moss, fungus or mold
Moss, fungus or mold on your roof is bad.
Not only is it a death sentence for your roof, but can be harmful to your family’s health.
Poor roof ventilation will cause moss and other bacteria to grow on your roof shingles.
Stains on your ceilings
If you see water stains, or discoloration on your inside ceilings, you might need a roof replacement.
Once water starts to leak that far down, it could be a bad sign.
However, we have seen many leaks able to be repaired without having to replace your roof. Small leaks are usually the cause of some bad flashing.
We can come in and take care of something like that for you quick, with some nice new copper roof flashing.
Or, it could be a bigger problem with your roof.
Visible light in the attic
Being able to see light in your attic is also not so good.
It can mean that your roof is not waterproof, or that it’s not properly insulated.
But, if you spot these issues before substantial water damage, a roof repair can be sufficient.
Do You Have the Oldest Roof on the Block?
If all of your neighbors have replaced their roofs, it could be time.
In most neighborhoods in and around Westchester County, NY, the homes were built at the same time.
So if everyone but you have replaced the roof on your home, consider a new roof installation.
That’s a good start, and what I like to tell our customers to think about to kind of guess what you’re in store for.
But, the key really is to find an honest roofer that shows you that you can trust them.
There’s a lot of great roofers in Westchester County, NY and the surrounding area to choose from. But, in our experience, stay away from roofers who have to tell you to trust them. Also, stay away from roofers that say they’re the best, or the #1.
A qualified, honest roofer will show you that they deserve the opportunity to earn your trust.
Then, it’s up to you to judge for yourself if they are lucky enough to earn your business.
Time for a New Roof?
I know. I didn’t give you an answer really.
But, what I did give you is just a little bit of knowledge. Now, you know the basic signs to look for.
And, you know how to judge a roofer’s opinion using your gut instincts and the confidence you now have.
Your roof is different than everyone else’s in our community. It’s even different than your neighbor’s roof.
That’s why we can’t give you an answer that will always work.
The type of roof, local climate and weather, quality of your roofing materials, how well you maintained your roof, and length of time since the last installation are all factors that you need to consider.
That’s a lot. But, you don’t have to be overwhelmed anymore. And, remember, the roofer has to come out anyway.
So repair, or get a new roof, you can talk it through. The key is finding a roofer that shows they deserve the opportunity to try and earn your trust.
Before making the decision, educate yourself and ask questions.
When in doubt, consult with more than one roofing contractor or a trusted friend.