The life expectancy of a roof depends on the roofing material as well as installation, severe weather events, and maintenance. Below are typical roof life expectancies:
Every roofing project is different, and there are several variables to be considered. Roofing contractors base their estimates on the size of your roof, the cost to remove and dispose of the old roof, the roof style, shape, material, and other features such as chimneys, skylights or vents that may need additional attention.
However, an average asphalt shingle roof typically costs $12,000 for an 1,800 sq ft roof.
The best time to replace your roof is typically in the spring or fall. In Iowa, winter is not ideal due to the cold temperatures, and summer heat can negatively impact roofing materials and working conditions. The mild weather in the spring and fall allows for smoother installation and proper sealing of shingles. Because of this, it's important to plan ahead and schedule the replacement before roofing contractors get too busy in late summer and early fall to potentially avoid higher prices and emergency situations.
Not only can a new roof significantly boost home value, but it can also increase your home’s curb appeal. If you’re looking to sell, a new roof can help you get more offers, higher bids, and a quicker closing process.
The underlayment is a water-resistant protective barrier that is placed between the roof deck and the shingles. This is a necessary part of any roof because it provides an additional layer of defense against water infiltration, helping to ensure the roof’s effectiveness and longevity.
Hedrick Construction does not recommend that you climb on your roof to inspect for hail damage. Often, it takes a trained eye to identify the signs of hail damage. However, you may be able to see some signs of damage from the ground. These include black colored dots or dents, loose granules in your gutters, shingle tears, or missing shingles.
Each project is different, and the time frame and depends on the size of the home and types of materials used. Typically, however, it takes from one to three days for a new roof to be installed on an average-sized home.
Before your roofing project starts, you should remove any vehicles or other items from your driveway, clear any outdoor furniture, identify outlets that can be used by the roofers, and take down any wall decorations inside. You may also want to make arrangements for your pets or children if they are upset by loud noises.
To evaluate damage to your home, start with a visual inspection of your roof, windows, and siding. Look for missing shingles, damage to gutters, and broken siding pieces. On asphalt shingles, check for signs of granule loss, which can result from hail or debris impact and may lead to further damage. Even if you don't see obvious damage, consider a professional inspection after the main storm season or significant weather events to ensure your home's integrity.
If your roof suddenly starts leaking during a storm, you can take several steps to minimize the damage before professionals arrive:
If you’re able to identify the source of the leak, you can use roofing tape or caulk as a temporary measure. However, it's essential to contact local roofers as soon as possible for a professional assessment and permanent solution.
Homeowners insurance typically covers sudden damage from severe weather events like hail, wind, lightning, and fallen trees. Damage from wear and tear, aging, or poor maintenance, however, is not covered. A professional inspection can help assess whether the damage to your roof meets your policy’s coverage guidelines.
When determining whether to file a homeowners claim for roof repair or replacement, it’s important to first understand whether the damage is likely to be covered as well as the cost of repairs and your deductible amount. To keep your premiums as low as possible, avoid filing claims that are likely to be denied or that won’t significantly change your out-of-pocket costs. Always get a roof inspection before filing to avoid unnecessary claims. A professional roof inspection can determine whether the damage is due to a storm event (not age or maintenance gaps) and whether the cost of repairs will significantly exceed your deductible.
When an insurance adjuster comes to your home, they will inspect your roof for storm damage and calculate repair costs using industry pricing software. It’s a good idea to have your roofing contractor meet with the adjuster to ensure all damage is properly documented.
Homeowners insurance may cover either the actual cash value (ACV) or replacement cost value (RCV) of a damaged roof. The ACV is based on the depreciated value of the roof, while RCV covers the entire cost of replacement, less your deductible. When RCV is used, payments are often made in two steps: 1) an ACV payment up front 2) a payment for recoverable depreciation made after repairs are complete.
If your insurance adjuster and roofing contractor disagree about the nature of the damage or cost of repairs, you can request a re-inspection. You can ask your contractor to be present at this re-inspection to ensure all damage is documented appropriately. The contractor can also provide a detailed, line-by-line estimate that includes photos and documentation of missing items to support a fair scope of work. Experienced roofers regularly work with insurance companies to resolve these differences.
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