What Do I Need to Know About Replacing My Roof?

Most homeowners know they’ll have to deal with roof replacements at some point. Still, we often avoid even thinking about them because we fear they’ll be more overwhelming or daunting than they really are. 

Roof replacements don’t have to be massive headaches or inconvenient burdens, especially when you partner with a reputable and experienced roofer. And while a roof replacement is an investment, it will pay off in terms of financial returns and significantly boost your home’s overall curb appeal.

In this post, we break down everything you need to know about replacing your Austin roof, including:

• How to know if you need a new roof or simply a patch
• When is the best time of year to replace your roof
• How often should a roof be replaced
• How much does a new roof cost in Texas
• Should you replace your roof before selling your home

Let’s get started.

How to Know if You Need a New Roof or Simply a Patch

There are several key indicators that mean it’s time to pay attention to your roof. Some may seem less alarming than others. Some are also much more obvious than others. Here are a few warning signs that mean it’s time to look up:

• You spot a shingle or more) in your yard
• You see signs of water damage  on your ceiling or walls
• A tree branch has lodged its way into your roof deck
• A full-on leak is pouring into your home 

Regardless of the severity of the roof damage, it’s always important to act as soon as possible. By promptly repairing any damage, you can extend the life of your roof by several years—and save a good deal of money.

After consulting with a roofing expert, the decision to patch or replace your roof should be made. Ultimately, the decision about repairing or replacing your roof will come down to a few key factors:

• The age of the roof – Most Austin roofs don’t last much beyond 20 years
• The extent of the damage – A replacement is the best choice if you have widespread roofing issues.
• The location of the leak – Sometimes, the damage is isolated to a given area, and by replacing a few shingles or repairing the flashing, you will be back in business quickly.
• How long you will be staying in the home – You might consider letting the next homeowner deal with a full roof replacement and just doing patches to tide you over, or perhaps you choose to replace the roof yourself to increase your home’s resale value. Either choice will come with a financial impact as well.

As you decide whether to repair or replace your roof, evaluate its physical condition, the amount of money you’re willing to spend, and other intangible factors, such as how a new roof will improve your home’s curb appeal and enable you to live worry-free about it for a while. 

When is the Best Time of Year to Replace Your Roof

While the best time to replace a roof is when it works for you, some seasonal considerations should also be considered. Yes, replacing a roof in Austin can be too hot or cold.

• Spring – It can be a good time to replace your roof before the heat of summer sets in. 

• Summer – Late spring to early summer is a popular time to replace your roof in Austin because the weather is relatively stable. But as summer progresses and the heat intensifies, it can take a toll on roof workers and affect shingle installation. 

• Fall – The weather is typically just right for roof installations, and homeowners have begun to look ahead to winter. They want their roofs in tip-top shape before the colder months approach.

• Winter – These cooler months are generally the least busy for Austin roofers, so winter can be a good time to call an experienced roofer. However, if the temperature dips for an extended period, it may be dangerous or too cold for the roofers.

The reality for many homeowners, however, is that we don’t always have a choice about when we replace our roof. Emergencies may necessitate a roof repair when it is very cold or hot in Austin. Rest assured, there are ways to work around temperature constraints and fully and effectively repair or replace your roof. 

How Often Should a Roof be Replaced?

Here in Austin, several factors can accelerate or decelerate your need for a roof replacement.

Obvious ones, like significant storm damage to your roof, could prompt you to replace your roof sooner than you may have liked. However, staying on top of routine roof maintenance and making smart repairs could prolong that expected timeline.

In general, asphalt shingle roofs need replacement every 20 or so years. Other roofing materials, such as clay tile, slate, or metal, can last much longer.

Pay attention to your roof; it is the key to knowing whether and when you need a replacement. Don’t neglect it simply because you cannot easily see it.

Call in a professional roofer to inspect your roof, identify (and fix) areas of weakness, and explain its overall condition. 

While some elements of roof maintenance are within your control, one of the most significant factors—the weather—is not.

Do what you can to take good care of your roof, use high-quality materials when you have to make repairs, and don’t let minor leaks linger. By doing these things, you can help extend the life of your current roof and have the right roof know-how when it does come time to replace your roof.

How Much Does a New Roof Cost in Texas?

The cost of a new roof in Texas will depend on the size of the home, the type of materials used, the pitch of the roof, and other factors. Here’s a closer look at some of what goes into that price tag:

• Size – While you might think your roof is the same size as your home, it’s not. Roofers calculate your home’s “roofing square” to gain an accurate measurement of your roof. Larger roofs cost more. 

• Pitch – Steep roofs pose safety challenges and generally take longer to install. Steeper roofs also contain more surface area, which increases the cost.

• Type – Flat roofs are more straightforward to install and cost less than other roof types, such as gable, hip, and mansard. 

• Materials – Shingles come in various forms, the most common being asphalt shingles. They are affordable, durable, and available in numerous colors, yet they also account for a significant portion of your overall roof replacement cost. 

• Labor costs – More complex roofs or homes with multiple roof layers require more time, effort, and other project costs. These variables will add to the price tag of a new roof.

A new roof is a big investment—and one you want done correctly. Look for a credentialed roofing company that is licensed and insured and can back up its work with quality workmanship.

Should You Replace Your Roof Before Selling?

Deciding to sell your home can involve a laundry list of tasks before you can even put the house on the market. Tackling those items is important, especially when they can increase the sale value of your home by thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.

When deciding where to focus your time and money when preparing to sell your home, structural improvements and opportunities to create a wow factor for buyers can be helpful. A roof replacement can effectively tick both of those items off the list. 

What to Consider Before Replacing Your Roof 

The first thing to consider is the current condition of your roof. How old is it, and what severe weather has it endured? 

To find answers to these questions, it’s a good idea to have a roof inspector evaluate your property before putting the home on the market. Not only will you avoid unwanted surprises during the sale inspection, you’ll also be able to make a more informed decision about whether to replace the roof based on the outcome of that inspection. Sometimes all you may need is a roof repair, rather than a complete replacement.

Cost is also an important consideration. While it will boost your home’s resale value, you may decide the money is better saved and invested in a new home. 

Other considerations when considering replacing your roof include understanding the current market conditions and how quickly you want to sell your home. 

Your roof is your house’s workhorse. Give it the attention and credit it deserves by conducting annual inspections, staying on top of repairs, and, when the time comes, trusting your roof replacement to a local expert.

At Storm Guard of SW Austin, our priority is keeping you safe while protecting your home and roof for the long haul. Contact our team for questions about roof replacements or for immediate roofing assistance.