The Ultimate Homeowner's Roof Buying Guide [2022 Edition]

In just 5 minutes, you will understand if your roof needs replacing and your roof buying options to beautify and protect your home while sticking to your budget.

Roofing Buyers Guide
Benefits of Roof Replacement
New Roof

Why Is a Good Roof Important?

The roof on your home plays an essential role in protecting your property from extreme weather, discouraging moisture from seeping in, and promoting harmful mold growth. Your roof is a crucial element of your home, from protecting your belongings, helping maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, and reducing your energy costs to keeping your family safe and healthy.

When Should I Replace My Roof?

A properly installed roof has a life expectancy of about 30 years, so most homeowners don't replace their roofs often. You likely overlook the condition of your roof in favor of more exciting projects. You might not pay much attention to your roof until there are signs of roof damage. A small roof leak or damaged roof shingles might only require a roof repair, but you could face more significant issues if the roof damage becomes severe. So how do you know when it's time for a complete roof replacement? Here are some signs that you should consult a professional roofer who can assess whether your home's roof can be repaired or needs to replacement:

Why is it Important to Replace a Roof?

If your home's roof is getting old or you think the roof might be damaged, contact a reputable roofing expert who can recommend the best course of action for roof repair or replacement. You might wonder, "Is it worth getting a new roof?" Being proactive in having your roof replaced before it begins leaking and falling apart is the best way to protect your family and avoid catastrophic damage to your home. It's helpful for you to become familiar with the benefits of roof replacement so you can make the best decisions about your new roof.

Benefits of Total Roof Replacement:

Does a New Roof Make Your House More Energy Efficient?

Sure, a new roof helps protect your home, but does a new roof help with heating and cooling? And do shingles reduce heat? A roof that's nearing the end of its life expectancy likely isn't doing a good job at helping your home maintain an ideal temperature. Improvements in technology in recent years have led to the creation of ENERGY STAR®-rated shingles that do a great job at reflecting sunlight rather than absorbing it. Roofing materials with high energy efficiency ratings prevent your HVAC system from overworking, which helps you control energy costs. When exploring the many types of roofing materials available, consider that lighter shingles will naturally reflect more heat than darker colored ones. In addition to choosing energy-efficient roofing materials, hire a reputable roofing contractor who can make sure your attic has adequate ventilation to allow warm air to escape and install appropriate roof insulation to help your home maintain a comfortable air temperature.

Is it Better to Repair or Replace a Roof?

It's best to have a reputable roofing contractor assess your roof's integrity and determine whether your roofing issues can be repaired or if it requires a roof replacement. Depending on the age of your roof and the extent of roof damage, a qualified roofer will be able to recommend the most cost-effective course of action.

Is it OK to Reroof Over Old Shingles?

Adding a second layer of shingles to a roof is called overlaying. Although overlaying is slightly less expensive than a tear-off, the life of new shingles is decreased by half when laid over existing shingles. In addition, overlaying prevents your roofer from identifying and repairing underlying roof problems and can amplify surface imperfections, making them more prominent. Plus, overlaying may negate the warranty on the new shingles.

What Roof Is Best?

There are many roofing options, and your choice of roofing material will likely be influenced by your budget, style preferences, and the local climate. Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material and the least expensive type of roof. Asphalt roofs generally last 25-30 years, can be beautifully layered, provide energy efficiency, and are available in a variety of colors. Metal roofs have become very popular because of their durability and fireproof qualities. They are costly but have a long lifespan. Slate and tile are more expensive but have advantages depending on the look you want to achieve and the type of weather exposure your home faces. Tile is standard in warm climates because of its heat-reflecting properties and Mediterranean style. Slate is often used on gothic, Victorian and Tudor-style homes to maintain historical accuracy and last up to 100 years. Synthetic tile and slate roofing versions are less costly and offer the same stylish appeal. The best roof for your home is the one that fits your budget, complements your home, and is well-suited to the climate in which you live.

How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Roof?

What does a new roof cost? Roof replacement is one of the more significant expenses homeowners face and one of the most essential investments. A sturdy roof will protect your property and family for years to come, and you can see a return on investment on roof replacement of as much as 100%. But how much is a new roof? You may be tempted to hire the least expensive roofing professional and select the cheapest materials, but those choices can severely shorten the lifespan of your new roof. Factors like the roofing materials you choose, the expertise of the roofing contractor, and the square footage and pitch of your sloped roof all contribute to the costs of your roof replacement.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace A Roof
How To Choose A Roofing Contractor
A Pennsylvania Roofing Company

How Do I Choose a Good Roofer?

When it comes to replacing your roof, you need a reliable roofing expert you can trust with one of the most crucial home improvement investments you'll make. Your choice of a professional roofing contractor will determine the quality of workmanship of your roof installation. A great way to start looking for a trustworthy, dependable roofing contractor is by asking local friends and neighbors for recommendations. Get references and check that the contractor you select is licensed and fully insured. Also, make sure your roofing contractor uses only quality materials and gives you a written, detailed price quote that includes a breakdown of all associated costs.

The Pennsylvania Roofing Company

Excelsior Roofing has an outstanding reputation among Pennsylvania homeowners as an experienced and reputable roofing company that has helped protect homes with reliable, quality roofing installations and repairs since 2011. The roofing experts from Excelsior will visit your home to thoroughly inspect your roof and provide you with a budget-friendly roofing repair or installation options and a guaranteed cost estimate. As a family-owned and operated business, Excelsior is proud to provide exceptional customer service, timely roofing services, and worry-free warranties on all types of residential roofing. To learn more about our replacement roofs and roof installation service or to get an estimate, give us a call at (484) 201-8073 or email us today.