For first-time homeowners, installing a new roof can be daunting. Before, you could rely on a landlord to manage your home repairs and maintenance; now, the burden falls on you. However, don't worry; you're not alone. Lyons Roofing is here to help.
Keep reading to learn about:
- How to choose the right roofing material
- How to hire a reputable roofer
- What to expect from the installation process
Hiring a Reputable Roofer
Working with a trustworthy roofer can make the new roof installation process much smoother. Experienced professionals can ensure proper installation and help you avoid costly repairs down the line. But what makes a roofer trustworthy?
When vetting a roofing company, you should:
- Look for professionals with positive reviews and strong reputations.
- Verify their credentials, ensuring they are licensed, insured, and bonded.
- Ensure they are well-established locally, like Lyons Roofing (serving Tucson and Phoenix communities since 1993!).
- Request quotes, references, and examples of the previous work they have completed in your area
Taking the time to choose the right roofer will give you peace of mind and a roof that lasts for years to come.
Choosing the Right Material
Selecting the appropriate roofing material is a critical step. Each material has advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, durability, and aesthetics.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material for residential homes in the US, and Arizona is no exception. Their widespread appeal is due to their affordability, ease of installation, and various styles and colors that can complement any home design.
Other popular roofing materials include:
- Clay tiles: Durable and aesthetically pleasing, but more expensive.
- Wood shingles: Offers a rustic look but requires more maintenance.
- Slate tiles: Extremely durable and fire-resistant but costly and heavy.
- Architectural shingles: Provides enhanced appearance and durability compared to regular asphalt shingles, often with a higher cost.
When deciding what type of material to go with, we recommend you consider your budget, the climate in your area, and the overall look you want for your home. Additionally, what type of roofing did your home already have? Note what you did and did not like about your old roofing.
Understanding the Installation Process
Familiarizing yourself with the installation process can reduce anxiety and help you prepare for what to expect. Knowing the steps involved will also allow you to ask informed questions.
The typical roof installation process involves the following:
- Initial inspections: We will assess the current roof's condition and ensure that any repair work is identified and completed before installing the new roof.
- Tear-Off: Removing the old roofing materials. This is also when we would coordinate with your solar company if you have a solar PV installation on your roof.
- Underlayment installation: Adding a protective layer beneath the new shingles.
- Roofing material installation: Installing the chosen roofing material, such as asphalt shingles or clay tiles.
- Final inspection: Ensuring everything is up to standard and cleaned up.
The entire roof installation process typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the size and complexity of the roof and weather conditions. Your roofing company will provide a more accurate timeline based on your specific project.
Bonus Tip: Things to Avoid When Planning a Roof Installation
When planning a roof installation, one critical aspect to avoid is falling for deals that seem too good to be true. Extremely low bids or offers often come with hidden costs, subpar materials, or unskilled labor. It's essential to trust reputable roofers, even if their quotes are slightly higher, as they are better able to ensure quality work and long-term reliability.
Another pitfall is working with out-of-area or out-of-state roofers. Local professionals like Lyons Roofing are more familiar with local building codes and weather conditions, which can affect the longevity of your roof. Moreover, local roofers are more likely to offer reliable warranties and after-service support, giving you peace of mind.
If you're considering a new roof and are a first-time homeowner, Lyons Roofing is here to help. Contact us online to get started today.
