Remove The Broken Shingles
Identify which shingles need replacing and remove the old and damaged shingles one by one.
If you are replacing the entire roof, remove all the shingles and clear the entire roof by removing excess debris and dirt.
Use a flathead shovel, forked shovel, or prybar to remove the debris.
Make sure to toss all excess debris away from the home and into a trash bin.
There are several ways to take care of the debris:
Can You Roof A House Yourself
Make no bones about itroofing is hard work. Theres no hiding from the elements. You cant be afraid of heights and you need to be pretty fit. Before committing to this how to roof a house project, try this: Get out a ladder and climb up onto your roof. If you cant walk around on it comfortably, hire a pro. If you passed this first test, go to the lumberyard or home center and throw a bundle of shingles onto your shoulder. Imagine yourself carrying that load up a laddermany, many times.
If youre still feeling positive about this how to roof a house at this point, why not give it a shot? You can skip a lot of heavy lifting by having your roofing supplier hoist the shingles onto the roof. Be sure you spread the load evenly across the length of the roofs peak. However, dont have the shingles delivered to the roof if you still have two layers of old shingles to tear offit could be too much weight for your trusses.
After youve obtained a permit and safely stripped the roof clean, nail drip edge flashing flush along the eave.
Cover the rest of the roof with No. 15 asphalt-saturated felt underlayment . Each layer overlaps the lower one by at least 2 in. Follow this step by nailing drip edge along rakes , on top of the underlayment. As you did with the flashing, always lap upper pieces over lower pieces. The felt keeps the roof deck dry before shingles go on, protects against wind-driven rain as shingles fail and increases fire resistance.
Other Things To Consider About Diy
You might need a permit before you begin work. You can check with your municipal authorities to see if they require one and if theyll give one to an amateur. And, if you have an HOA, make sure to receive their approval, too. They may insist on you hiring a professional.
Also, youll want to check your homeowners insurance policy. Most wont cover roof repairs and replacements due to normal aging and wear-and-tear, but many will cover roofing damage caused by common perils, such as hail, fire, or winds. However, they may require a professional bonded and licensed roofer do any work. If your roof gets damaged further by your efforts, they might not cover that. They probably wouldnt cover bills from any injuries you incur, either.
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Can I Replace My Own Shingles
The truth is, anyone can replace their own roof, with the help of the many DIY websites. For residential houses, roof replacements typically take two days the first day to remove the old roof, and the second day is to install the new one. A day or two more can be necessary depending on the size of the roof.
How hard is it to redo your own roof?
Its not difficult, but there will be more carpentry involved, and its more likely you will need some help. Carrying large sheets of plywood up onto a roof is something best not done on your own! If you have a pitched tiled roof, you can do this yourself if it isnt too big.
What Kind Of Permit Would I Need To Get
Information needed to apply for permit
In order to complete your application, youll need to know the contractors name and license number, project address and the owners name, project cost, type of roof material being removed and installed. They will ask if there is any structural work required for the project, too.
How much do permits cost?
Some permits are a flat fee and others charge based on the cost of the project per $1000. The borough youre in determines the cost of your permit. In Pennsylvania, We typically see a range of $50-$150 for roof replacement on a single-family home. There is a flat state fee of $4.50 added into your total fees. Below is an example permit for a roof replacement in Downingtown, PA.
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Hiring An Electrical Contractor
Before you hire an electrical contractor, make sure to:
- note their Electrical Safety Authority /Electrical Contractor Registration Agency licence number
- check that their work vehicle displays the ESA/ECRA licence number
- get a written cost estimate of the work that includes the ESA/ECRA licence number and ESA permit fees
- check references
Electrical Safety Authority is responsible for administering the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, licensing electrical contractors and master electricians, training inspectors, and conducting safety inspections of electrical installations and electrical incident investigations.
This means that in Ontario:
- a person cant operate an electrical contracting business without an electrical contractor licence issued by ESA
- a person cant take on the responsibility of a master electrician without a master electrician licence issued by ESA
If you suspect that an electrical contractor or master electrician is operating without an ESA licence, contact the Electrical Safety Authority. This helps prevent unsafe practices that can result in injury to people and damage to property.
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Do I Really Need A Roofing Permit To Reroof My Home
Should your roofer pull a roofing permit? Absolutely. Will every roofer pull a permit? Not necessarily. Pulling a permit for roofing protects the homeowner therefore its in your best interest.
Sure a roofer can reroof your home without a permit. But what happens when a city inspector drives by your home, stops to check that a permit for the roofing work is posted onsite, and theres no permit to be found? The inspector can immediately shut down all roofing work and send the roofers packing until a permit is issued.
What if the inspector arrives just as the last of your old roof is removed? Your home is left uncovered and unprotected until that permit is pulled. You could be left staring at the stars right from your bed. What if it begins to rain or temperatures climb or fall? A permit is a sure way to avoid avoidable inconvenience. Reroofing without a permit is also a building code violation, and its likely that any warranty would be void and non-transferable to a new buyer of your home.
Pulling a roofing permit is an added insurance that your roofing job will be done by the bookthe city codebook that is. Depending on your citys requirements, two to four inspections are involved with the permit. The inspectors are double-checking to ensure your new roof is being installed according to local building codes. This is for your protection and safety.
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Do Some Of The Work Yourself
Consider doing part of the work yourself. If you have the time, the proper equipment and a stomach for heights, removing old roofing before the installer arrives could help cut costs. Make sure your contractor approves before you break out the fork and roof jacks, though. Its dirty, backbreaking and sometimes dangerous work, and you may have to arrange the disposal of the old materials on your own.
While Youre At Itcupola
Tearing off an old roof offers the opportunity to have your roofing contractor add one of these upgrades.
Before ridge vents became standard, cupolas were used to cool houses and barns. Fitted with louvers, or electronically controlled windows, they help draw cool air in through soffits or open windows, then vent warm air from the top of the building.
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Additional Consideration: Are You Planning On Selling The House
A new roof can be expensive, but one benefit is that it can add value to your home. While you may not necessarily recoup the cost of a roof replacement in the sale of your home, there are still several benefits to having a new roof installed. You may be more likely to get full asking price for your home, spend less time with your home on the market or have shorter negotiations.
If you suspect your roof is damaged or youre nearing the end of your roofs life expectancy, consult a trusted professional before making any decision on repairs. Your roof is an essential part of your home, protecting the structure from leaks and damages. Furthermore, Nationwide is here with personal insurance plans to protect your home in case of disaster.
Special Wood Roof Considerations
Wood roofs are beautiful and often durable. When they’re nearing the end of their life, however, it may be challenging to pinpoint when exactly you need a replacement. You can look for a couple of key indicators:
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Dark spots: Wood roofs with dark spots could be evidence of rot. When you spot that warning sign, it’s better to get a replacement sooner rather than later.
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Curling shingles: Splitting, curling shingles are a crucial sign of wear on wood roofs.
When you discover signs of age and wear on your roof, you need to address those issues quickly. Your roof protects the rest of your home, so you’ll want to ensure it’s always in good shape.
Check out pictures of roofs that need to be replaced and compare them with your own roof, talk to your neighbors who are finding replacements and pinpoint warning signs to determine if you need a new roof. Getting started on your new replacement can help you manage any worries about what happens if you don’t replace your roof.
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Roof Size And Orientation
The bigger your roof, the more materials youll need. And the more time youll invest in transporting and installing them.
Another factor to consider is the angle of your roof, or slope, as the pros say. Low-sloped roofs are easier to install shingles on because of their flatter angles. Conversely, higher-angled roofs are more time-consuming and difficult. If your roof has lots of extra elements, like chimneys, dormers or skylights, the job gets more complicated, too.
Choose A Professional Over Diy Roof Replacement
When completing DIY projects, its easy to become overwhelmed and take shortcuts. However, temporary solutions for roof repairs can be more costly down the road.
Placing a patch on an obvious problem will only delay the inevitable re-emergence of the original issuethats likely worse than it was before your project started.
Delaying a roof repair could cost you an unimaginable amount in the long run. Hiring a certified roofing professional that can assess, repair, and prevent further damage to your roof will save you moneywithout risking the safety of your family.
For these reasons and more, always hire a professional like T Simpson Roofing for all of your roofing needs in the Greater Toronto Area. Contact us now for a quote on roof inspections, repairs, or replacements.
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How Do I Get A Permit
Apply for the permit through your local municipal government office. Depending on the projects complexity, some permits are issued immediately, while others may require inspection of the plans.
During the renovation process, inspections of the work will likely be required. For projects involving home additions, multiple inspections may be required. Once the work is complete, a final inspection occurs, and the permit is issued.
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Signs Of Water Damage Mold Or Rot
Boards of wood that span the trusses of your roof are known as roof decking or sheathing. Wet wood decking leads to wood rot, which can cause issues in additional areas of your home. Your roof probably has wood rot if the roof deck has dark spots, discoloration, crumbles, or cracks feels spongy, or has a damp, musty smell. A roofer can also detect wood rot by stepping on shingles above the rot and feeling them give more than usual. If you suspect you may have wood rot, seek the help of a professional home inspector. Initial signs of water damage to your roof may go unnoticed until the damage becomes substantial. These are some signs of water damage to look out for:
- Fungal and mold growth, which can reduce air quality
- Bulging or bowing, which will be visible on the roof from the outside the shingles above this part of the roof might not work properly, and the roof decking can eventually fall in
- Damage to wood in your home, including structural wood
- Damaged insulation, which can increase the cost of heating and cooling your home
- Damage to other home systems, such as your electrical system, particularly if wood rot goes unresolved
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Will Homeowners Insurance Cover Missing Shingles
Most homeowners insurance policies cover roof replacement if the damage is the result of an act of nature or sudden accidental event. Most homeowners insurance policies wont pay to replace or repair a roof thats gradually deteriorating due to wear-and-tear or neglect.
How much does it cost to put a metal roof on a 2000 sq ft house?
For an example of a typical project, you can expect to pay between $19,000 and $33,000 for a new 2,000 sq. ft. or 20-squares metal roof fully installed on a typical house.
Can You Repair Your Own Roof With Insurance Money
Most homeowners insurance policies cover roof replacement if the damage is the result of an act of nature or sudden accidental event. Most homeowners insurance policies wont pay to replace or repair a roof thats gradually deteriorating due to wear-and-tear or neglect.
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Fold Flashing Over The Peak
Cut the flashing back to the peak along each crease. Then fold the flashing over the peak and cover the cut ends with self-stick underlayment. Roof valleys channel a lot of water, so they need extra protection. Start by installing self-stick underlayment on the decking. This process is much easier with two people. Cut the underlayment to size , and peel off the entire plastic backer. With a person on each end, fold the underlayment in on itself, sticky side out. Then lay it into the valley and unfold it. Try to push it down into the crease of the valley as tightly as possible. If this self-stick ice-and- water underlayment bridges both sides of the decking, leaving a gap underneath, it could tear once you install the metal valley flashing. Run the underlayment past the drip edge at the eaves, and trim off the extra with a utility knife. Once it’s smooth, nail it down on the outside edges.
Finish installing felt paper on the rest of the roof, overlapping the self-stick underlayment. Be careful when you trim back the felt paper so you don’t slice into the underlayment. Photo 7 shows the underlayment covering the felt on one edge a couple of inches. This will keep water farther away from the inside corner of the fascia. You can extend the center out even more but not so far that water overshoots your gutters if you have them.
How To Replace Asphalt Shingles
Simple Instructions to Remove and Replace Asphalt Shingles on Your Roof.
Asphalt shingle roofs, when properly installed, typically require very little maintenance one of the main benefits of a shingle roof. However, there may be the odd occasion where a little fix is needed, and, fortunately, asphalt shingles can easily be removed and replaced in just seven steps. Even though the process is straightforward, IKO recommends that only properly trained professional roofing contractors engage in the shingling or repairing of roofs.
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Can I Replace My Own Roof
You can replace your own roof. But youll need to know how to remove the old shingles and install the new ones. Youll also need to have the right tools and materials, as well as some knowledge in working with them.
If youre up for it, removing and replacing an asphalt shingle roof is a great way to save money on your home improvements while also gaining a new skill that may come in handy down the road. However, there are risks involved, so be sure that youre willing and able before starting this project yourself.
Why You Shouldnt Diy Your New Roof
When its time to replace your homes roof, you may be tempted to do it yourself. After all, you can find DIY tutorials online for just about every project from how to replace your gutters to how to shingle a roof. Installing a new roof is a big project. Why not handle it yourself and save a lot of money?
While DIY works great for some projects, its a disaster for others and home roofing tops the list of home improvement jobs you should leave to the professionals.
Before you Google how to shingle a roof, check out these five reasons why you shouldnt DIY your new roof.
1. You Dont Really Save Money
Replacing a roof is a big investment. Other projects, such as a bathroom remodel or finished basement, are showier and seem to deliver more bang for your buck. Because you dont necessarily notice your roof, it can be hard to dip into your home renovation budget to replace it. For this reason, you might be tempted to save money by taking it on yourself.
However, you dont really save money when you DIY your roof. Replacing a few worn or missing shingles is one thing tearing off the entire roof is another. Professional roofers know the problem areas to look for in a roofs decking. Theyre also experts at identifying damage and providing homeowners with the most cost-effective way to fix it.
2. You Void Your Warranty
3. Its Dangerous
4. Theres a Chance You Will Miss a Serious Problem
5. It Wont Look as Good as a Professional Job
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