Avoid ‘Low-Cost’ Roof Replacement if You Really Want to Save Money

You’re wise not to waste money. You work hard for it and you deserve to get the highest value for all your efforts. Unfortunately, getting good value from a purchase is not always a simple, straight-line ‘pay less’ proposition. In other words, if something has a lower price now, but costs you more in repair and replacement expenses, it means the ‘cheaper’ option cost you more.

Nowhere is the “less is more” principle more valid than in roof replacement costs. Unfortunately, not every roofing company is reputable. Those who aren’t know that some homeowners can be duped by ‘incredible’ savings. They cut corners, use inferior materials and offer paper thin warranties to get more sales from cheap prices.

You are free to choose whichever roofing company you want to replace your roof. But, in addition to checking the history and reputation of whichever company you choose, be sure not to fall for the following ‘low cost’ options when replacing the roof. After all, your roof protects your family, your home and everything in it.

1. Shingles

Asphalt shingles are by far the most popular roofing material for homes in Toronto and the GTA. But they are available in different levels of quality. You can usually tell the difference in shingle quality according to its lifetime rating, which can range from 15 years to over 50 years. You don’t have to choose the most expensive shingle available, but if you choose the cheapest, be ready to repair and replace your roof sooner than later.

2. Underlayment

Underlayment is an added layer of protection for your roof that is placed over the roof deck before shingles are installed. The underlayment layer is not necessary, but, considering the wide ranges of weather we get, it’s a very smart choice. There are two main types of underlayment: felt and synthetic. Felt is less costly, but if it is exposed to the elements for any length of time during installation, it can wrinkle and trap moisture, both of which can adversely affect the application of the shingles and the lifespan of the roof.

3. Adding a Layer of Shingles to the Roof

Simply tacking on a new layer of shingles to your existing roof, called an ‘overlay’, is much less expensive than tearing off the existing shingles before installing the new ones. But overlays have their drawbacks, including the fact that the new layer of shingles may not last as long as they would if installed after a tear off. A tear off also lets roofers inspect your roof deck for problems. If you have only a single layer of shingles on your old roof, an overlay may be the way to go. But if you have any problems with the existing roof, or more than one layer of shinlges already on the roof, be sure to get a tear off.

The best way to avoid making the wrong choices when replacing your roof is to find a reputable roofer that you know will be around if you need warranty service and will stand behind their work.