A Comprehensive Guide to Roof Replacement in Coatesville, Pennsylvania—Everything You Need to Know

Your roof should be your home’s strongest ally. It should be strong enough to keep your family and belongings safe and solid enough to keep your home insulated. Water should slide right off. But when high winds, ice dams, large hail, or other issues come calling, your roof can only weather so much— especially if it’s over 20 years old.

A worn or damaged roof means that your likelihood of water damage and high utility bills will skyrocket. Water could slip through gaps or holes caused by missing or damaged shingles, slipping into your home’s structure and insulation.

But protection and insulation aren’t the only reasons to consider a new roof. A new roof can also improve your property’s value, increase your house’s appeal on the real estate market, and serve as a key selling factor for potential purchasers.

How to Know if Your Coatesville Roof is Struggling

So how do you know if your roof is struggling? While it can be tricky without a full inspection, you can watch for a few common signs, including the following:

  • Bits of shingles in your gutters
  • Bare, broken, cracked, or curling shingles
  • Moss or mushroom growth
  • Peeling paint or wallpaper
  • Sagging or buckling (Note: This is an emergency!)
  • Water stains on your ceiling
  • Weather-related damage

If you notice any of these signs, contact a local Pennsylvania roofer as soon as possible.

Common Roofing Problems in Coatesville, Pennsylvania

Storms and branches aren’t the only things that can damage your roof.

  • Ice dams. Ice dams occur when snow on your roof melts and then refreezes, causing ice to form at the edge of your roof. This can cause water to back up under your shingles and cause water damage.
  • Improper ventilation can lead to moisture buildup in your attic, which can cause mold and other problems.
  • If your roof is over twenty years old, it’s likely starting to deteriorate and needs to be replaced.

The Process of Roof Replacement

Replacing your roof might sound like a huge hassle. On top of the large expense and making a bunch of decisions, you have to deal with a host of workers banging around atop your house all day? However, knowing what to expect can help with anxiety and planning. Roof replacement happens in five steps.

  1. Removing the old roof.
  2. Inspecting the deck for damage or rot.
  3. Repairing any damage to the deck.
  4. Installing the waterproof underlayment.
  5. Installing the shingles or tiles.

A respectable Pennsylvania roofing company will also ensure the job site is clean and debris-free after the roof is complete. Sometimes the tarps on the ground don’t catch everything, so they’ll check for shavings, shingle bits, and nails.

Considerations When Replacing Your Roof

A roof is a significant investment, so you want to know what you’re getting into. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Roofing Materials

You have your pick from several types of roofing materials available in Pennsylvania. The most common materials include asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and slate roofing.

Each type of roofing material has its own pros and cons. Asphalt shingles are affordable and easy to install, but they have a shorter lifespan than other roofing materials. Metal roofing is durable and energy-efficient, but it can be expensive. Slate roofing is beautiful and long-lasting, but it is also one of the most expensive roofing options.

When selecting a roofing material, consider your budget, the climate in your area, and your personal preferences. An experienced roofer’s advice can help you make the best decision.

Insurance

If you discover that your roof needs help, talk to your insurance agent. Pending the extent of the damage and how it was caused, they may help cover the cost. Some roofing companies will help negotiate with insurance to save you money.

However, if you are renting, check your lease and speak with your landlord first. Roof-related maintenance and decisions might be their responsibility.

HOA Restrictions

Some HOAs restrict the style or color of roofs in their neighborhood. Make sure to check the by-laws before you get attached to any one style.

Tips for Maintaining Your Roof in Pennsylvania

Proper upkeep can help extend your roof’s life.

  • Inspecting regularly. The earlier you catch damage or wear, the easier to repair. While you can keep an eye on your roof, you should also have a professional inspect it at least once a year.
  • Keeping your gutters clean. Clogged gutters and drains can cause water to back up and damage your roof.
  • Trimming trees. Overhanging branches can damage your roof and provide a pathway for pests to enter your home.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *