Roofing: how to do it right and save money

Does your roof seem to be showing signs of fatigue? Before your roof leaks, before the worst happens, we advise you to seriously think about having your roof renovated . But how do you know that it’s really the right time to change it?

Good news, you are in the right season to have this type of work done.

We often underestimate the importance of the roof. But, remember that this part of your house protects you from bad weather. It plays a big role in insulating your home. For example, your roof keeps you warm in very cold weather, and vice versa. It also prevents you from finding yourself with both feet in the water when it’s raining heavily. In short, protecting the largest of your investments is the right decision.

Before undertaking your renovation work, ask yourself these 5 questions:

Is your roof showing signs of aging?

A roof has an expiration date. By carrying out regular maintenance, you can extend its lifespan, but there still comes a time when it absolutely must be replaced. The timing of replacement obviously depends on the type of roof you have on your building.

How long has your roof been installed?

Generally the lifespan of a roof is between 15 to 25 years depending on the materials used. However, some materials can have a much longer lifespan ranging from 50 to 100 years as in the case of slate and copper.

What are the signs that your roof needs to be renovated?

Before having your roof renovated, inspect it. You may only need minor work. Be careful. Often, even slight signs of wear can hide much worse problems: we are only dealing with the tip of the iceberg.

The 5 undeniable signs that your roof needs to be renovated:

Your roof materials are cracked, warped or swollen in different places

The sealing joints are cracked

The plumbing column and drain are damaged

The roof is covered with mold in several places on the roof

Rain accumulates on your roof and creates puddles for a few days

Also remember to check the attic – provided it is safe to venture there. A bit like the top of your roof, traces of water, humidity or fungus are never a good sign. If the materials that insulate your roof — such as mineral wool — are in poor condition, this is also a good indicator that your roof needs to be renovated.

While you’re at it, make sure you have a roof fan that’s good enough to properly ventilate the entire attic.

Generally, with these checks on and under your roof, you can establish a relatively realistic picture of the situation. If you are less comfortable being at height or in cramped places, do not hesitate to seek professional advice .

It is also possible that you will not need to replace your entire roof. Perhaps a few minor works will be enough to keep your roof in good condition for a few more years.

What is the usual budget for renovating your roof?

If you are having your roof replaced, Protégez-vous magazine indicates that you should not expect a quote below $5,000. We know, it’s a lot of money, but we tell you, it’s very well invested.

To help you get over it, we did a quick calculation. Tell yourself that this money spread over at least the next 15 years means that annually you will have more or less $300. This amount is approximately half the amount you pay each year for your internet consumption. Not that expensive after all to be warm and dry this winter at -25 degrees.

The cost of course depends on the type of materials you choose and its quality.

* Costs per square foot are approximate. They are based on the average cost of installation and materials on the market. The files made by Protégez-vous and CanalVie are in the same direction as our information.

The surface area to be covered and the time that the renovations will take also affect the price: the larger the surface area to be covered, the higher the price will be.

Other factors can also influence the cost of your new roof. If it is sloping, its complexity can cause the price to increase. Adding work such as repairs related to ventilation or roof support can change the situation.