What's Involved in Getting a Roof Replaced?
Getting a whole new roof on the house is one of the biggest projects you’re likely to undertake. It’s also not something you do every year, and very few homeowners have lots of expertise in this area. If you’ve gone through years of patching your roof and shelling out for repairs, there will come a point when you finally decide the only option is a new one. So what do you need to know?
Be Clear What You Want
Replacing the roof can mean lots of different things so you need to be clear what you want. Do you just want to replace the tiles or slates, or do you want the roofer to replace all the rafters and felt too? Often, you won’t be sure what you need at the start of the job, especially when you haven’t been able to get up on the roof for an inspection. It’s therefore really important to have an open and honest conversation with the builder or roofer about the desired end result. Explain that you don’t have an endless amount on money, but want a good job, rather than a cheap job.
Time the Work
Roofers don’t like working in pouring rain, and replacing the roof in autumn or winter can be tricky. Depending on the size of the roof, you’ll need a dry spell of four days to a week for a complete replacement. The weather can’t be guaranteed at any time of the year, but you’re more likely to get dry weather in spring or summer. Also, there is more daylight in the summer months and this can allow the workers to put in longer hours than in winter. Good roofers will be booking in large jobs like replacing a roof, months in advance. So don’t leave it until the last minute and expect your chosen roofer to be available at short notice.
Cost of Replacing a Roof
The average cost of a new roof on a three-bedroom semi is around £5000. If your house is a lot bigger, or the existing leadwork has to be ditched and replaced with new, the prices can soon rise. Scaffolding might also increase cost, along with skips, or a choice of expensive, antique roof tiles. When you’re spending such a lot of money it’s essential to put a little effort into finding the best company for the job. Always get at least three quotes for the work, and check that each contractor is quoting for the same jobs. Weigh up not only the cost, but also the reputation of the roofer. Don’t be embarrassed about asking for references from people whose roofs they have replaced recently.
Financing a New Roof
Roofers aren’t likely to offer a buy now pay later arrangement, but that doesn’t mean that you have to put up with a leaking roof until you’ve saved up cash. You may be able to get a loan from the bank to finance the work. Alternatively, speak to the mortgage provider about extending finance that way.
