Blogs | Residential Roofing Contractor In Aurora And Metro Denver, CO

Should I Repair Or Replace My Roof?

“Should I repair or replace my roof, which is better?” That is a common question you will hear from homeowners. The response is critical, especially if you live in hail-prone areas like Denver or Aurora, Colorado. However, the decision depends on the extent and severity of the damage to your roof. And the most crucial consideration is the amount of money you’re willing to invest.

In this blog, you’ll find valuable roofing information that will help you make an informed decision about your roof’s condition.

How long should a roof last in Colorado?

The lifespan of a roof varies by material. Asphalt shingles, for example, can last 15-30 years with regular maintenance, while metal roofs can last up to 70 years.

However, even the most meticulously crafted roofs require replacement. Poor maintenance, weather, and materials used can all reduce a roof’s overall life expectancy.

How often should you replace your roof in Colorado?

Roof durability is affected by a wide range of factors. Given its average lifespan (as stated above), you don’t need to replace your roof very often. Specifically, if professional roofers perform the work as they guarantee their craft. Other factors such as extreme temperatures, weather conditions, and maintenance can affect these projections. What would be ideal is to schedule a roof inspection at least once a year as part of your home care protection plan. Regular and proper maintenance can help to extend the life of your roof.

When is the best time to replace your roof?

The fall season is the best time to replace a residential roof. The weather is ideal for the roofing crew to work long hours. As a result, the quality of work is much better because it allows them to install the roofing materials properly.

Additionally, shingles require time to seal and create an airtight barrier that can withstand harsh weather. Installing them during the fall will form that barrier before winter arrives.

However, you do not have to wait until the fall to do this. The sooner you start, the better. As the climate changes, seemingly minor issues such as leaks and small holes can amplify and cause more damage.

Furthermore, roofing contractors are in high demand during the autumn season. You should contact them at least a few months in advance to get a quote and set up an appointment on your preferred schedule.

How much does it cost to replace a roof in Colorado?

Replacing a roof takes time and effort. It necessitates meticulous planning and coordination. Aside from materials, your roof replacement project’s time, scope, and labor will all impact the overall cost. All of this will depend on the size of the roof and the project scope.

A roof evaluation is necessary to determine the appropriate course of action and associated costs.

Can a roof be patched rather than replaced?

It is entirely dependent on the roof’s condition. If the damage is minor and you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to make temporary roof repairs.

However, you can feel at ease and secure knowing that you’ll have a brand new roof that will last for years.

Roof Repair and Replacement Indicators

While some repairs are doable on your own, it would be best to consult a professional to ensure the safety of your roof. The following are some sample repair projects.

Leaks near the pipe boot or chimney
Shingles are missing.
Popped nails
Fascia Replacement
Holes and Punctures
Cracking and Blistering
Tree Devastation
Weather-related Damage
Granule Depletion
Shrinkage or Splitting
Inadequate Maintenance
Ventilation Issues

Again, determining what steps to take requires an assessment of the roof’s condition. Appearances can be deceiving. Your roof may appear to be in good condition from the outside, but the real problem is on the inside. In some cases, pest infestations rather than stormy inclement weather are to blame. Only a thorough inspection will reveal the actual issue.

On the other hand, the following are some tell-tale signs that your roof is in desperate need of replacement.

• Holes or tears in the shingles

• Curling or buckling of the shingles

• Curling or buckling of the roof decking

• Blisters on the underlayment

• Missing shingles

• Missing roof vents

If you’re not sure what to do, speak with a reputable roofing professional who can give you an objective analysis of your roof’s condition.

Is it worthwhile to spend money on roof repairs?

Yes, if the repair addressed the problem. However, if the fix does not last and causes additional problems, it is not worth it. Repairs should save you money while also extending the life of your roof, not the other way around. While it may appear prudent to do some repairs yourself, you run the risk of injuring yourself or missing signs of a more severe problem. Additionally, It may also result in uneven surfaces, which may cause additional problems and reduce the aesthetic value of your property. Overall, a roofer can provide a more accurate assessment and solution, which is ultimately more cost-effective.

Furthermore, the type of roofing material you choose at the outset will significantly impact repair costs. The price of roofing materials varies depending on the type of roof, as some require more construction materials than others.

Roof Repair: Tear off versus Overlay

It would be beneficial to consider this when deciding whether to lay new shingles on top of existing ones or remove and replace them.

Taking off your old shingles breathes new life into your roof. Installing new shingles not only extends the life of your roof but also allows contractors to detect any potential damage to the roof deck. You’ll also be able to customize every aspect of the roofing system, so you’ll be familiar with every layer of your roof.

Overlays are great if you don’t plan on replacing your roof for at least ten years. They can also save you money since there is no massive removal of shingles, which means less intensive labor. As a result, installing a new layer of shingles is simpler and cheaper than a complete replacement.

Roof shingles are typically sold by the square, which means you’ll be charged for the entire square area, even if the repair area is smaller. A roofing square, by the way, is a 10×10 area of 100 square feet of roof surface. You can, however, save any leftover materials for future repairs.

Finally, if you do the roofing repair yourself, your insurance policy is unlikely to cover the cost.

Is a new roof worth the money?

While a complete roof replacement is more expensive, it provides a sense of security. Knowing that what you value most under your roof is protected from harmful elements gives you peace of mind, too.

Take a look at the following reasons why a new roof is a good investment.

Property Valuation Increase

The age of a roof can significantly impact a home’s resale value. Nobody wants to move in only to discover that the roof is defective or leaking. Newer roofs typically have fewer problems, providing the buyer with comfort and security. Thus, a roof replacement is the best option if you plan to sell your home.

More Energy Efficient

While a new roof is an investment, it can also be an excellent opportunity to upgrade to a more energy-efficient system. That would help to reduce monthly utility costs. You can also invest in more robust materials to make your home more weather resistant.

Cost-Effective

Roofs in Aurora and Denver may require extensive repairs in some cases before the home can be livable again. Consequently, it will take longer and cost more money than purchasing a brand new roof. On the other hand, contractors can install a new roof in one day, allowing homeowners to quickly and easily restore their homes.

Key Takeaway

Overall, a comprehensive assessment is necessary to ascertain the answers to that age-old query. Second, while considering your budget, you should also consider your insurance policy coverage. If you take these things for granted, you may be doing your roof and yourself a disservice.

Good roofing advice is just as important as the roof repair itself. When you hire a professional to repair your roof, you also get the opportunity to “pick his roofer’s brain” to get answers to all of your roof-related questions. Additionally, the roofer may give you a heads-up on any other issues or problems that may arise in the future.

Roofing Contractor Pre-Hiring Checklist

If you’re still on the fence, here are a few additional steps you can take to boost your decision-making confidence.

1. Do More Research

Do your homework before calling a contractor to inspect your roof. Educate yourself, so you’ll understand what the roofer or salesperson is explaining and ask the appropriate questions. This way, you won’t get taken advantage of and end up having to replace your roof when it still has plenty of life in it. Examine each company’s reviews and pick one that meets your specific needs and answers your questions.

2. Get multiple quotes

Don’t limit yourself to just one. Get at least two more companies to look at your property. Getting multiple opinions will help you better understand the condition and needs of your roof.

If they give you conflicting information, choose a company with a proven track record of expertise, honesty, and customer service to ensure you get your money’s worth.

3. Request a written financial agreement and project details.

It is critical to comprehend and document your roofing project’s financial terms and project details. Before you begin the roofing project, you should request a contract that specifies who is responsible for what. The written agreement/contract should include warranties, project duration, materials to be used, specific equipment and tools, safety standards, agreed-upon cost, due dates, and other vital details.

4. Choose a reputable local roofing company.

Selecting a reputable local roofing contractor is critical. It’s necessary to verify that your contractor has the proper licenses and insurance. Ask around and get to know your chosen company before committing to their services. After all, they’ll be working on a vital component of your home.

Furthermore, look for a contractor with experience, a proven track record, reasonable rates, and exceptional customer service.

Are you ready for a roof repair or replacement?

The fact of the matter is that you won’t know what your roof requires until you have it examined. That is why you must obtain an unbiased inspection from a reputable roofing contractor.

Although there is no specific formula for roof inspection and services, the roofing contractor must have the necessary training and skills in dealing with various roof styles. A skilled roofing contractor can handle any roof condition, regardless of its surface or type.

Colorado’s Leading Roofing Contractor

All Starr Roofing is a premiere Aurora roofing contractor specializing in residential roofing, insurance claims, and exterior renovations.

We never rush through any job. Instead, All Starr Roofing conducts a thorough inspection to determine whether a residential roof replacement is necessary. Customer satisfaction is always guaranteed because of our meticulous attention to detail, high-quality materials, and excellent craftsmanship.

Furthermore, All Starr Roofing takes pride in demonstrating its appreciation for Colorado homeowners by providing accurate and reasonable estimates. And we will continue to strive to provide the best roofing services available, not just in Aurora and Denver but throughout Colorado.

RESIDENTIAL ROOFING

We’re experienced in providing services for roof repairs, maintenance and inspection for all different types of residential roofing projects. Click here for more about residential roofing services.

ROOF INSURANCE CLAIMS

Repairing and inspecting storm damage is critical to protecting your home and family. All Starr Roofing performs all levels of your roof insurance claim. Click here for more about roof insurance claims.

EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS

We specialize in exterior home renovations, including roofing, siding, gutters, painting, garages and more. Click here for more about exterior renovations for your home.

Get in Touch With Us

Reach out to us today to learn about how we can help you with your roofing needs. We look forward to hearing from you!

Jason Starr In Blogs

Hail Damage Roof Inspection In Colorado

Hailstorms are becoming more intense and are affecting many parts of the country. It’s even more true in Colorado. (You’ll understand why in a moment.) While scientists debate about why these storms happen, no one can deny that they cause massive property damage and, in some cases, death. Hail damage can range from a few broken shingles to total building destruction, resulting in fatalities.

What makes Colorado hail-prone?

The main reason Colorado is prone to hail is its altitude. Its elevation is higher than most regions, bringing it closer to the freezing level in the atmosphere. Consequently, strong updrafts can quickly reach the cloud’s hail-producing site.

Another reason for hail occurrences is the cloud and the processes that are taking place in it. Summer in Colorado, for instance, is characterized by cold, mixed-phase clouds rather than the warm, all-liquid clouds seen in the other tropics and subtropics of the Earth.

Taking the precautionary measure

While hailstorms are unavoidable, you can take precautions to protect yourself and your property through roof inspection. Hail damage can be heartbreaking. It does not only expose your home to future harm, but it can also cost you a lot of money in roof repairs or replacement. Large hailstones, you see, can penetrate surfaces, wreaking havoc on properties (homes, commercial buildings, and vehicles alike). Early inspection of your roof can detect structural flaws and recommend repairs, protecting you from future disasters.

When do hailstorms occur?

Hail can fall at any elevation in Colorado, but it is most prevalent in June. These frozen water bombs, however, can fall as early as March and as late as October.

A powerful storm recently pelted Colorado with large hailstones. Previously, another storm dumped golf ball-sized hail in Denver and Aurora. These incidents occur every year. And with climate change, you can expect it to get worse. Thus, as your first line of defense, your roofs must remain in excellent condition to keep you safe during the storm.

How to inspect for hail damage on your roof?

Hail can cause significant damage. Even if your roof is highly durable, exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet rays, as well as changing weather conditions, will wear it down. As a result, it becomes vulnerable to hail damage.

Some tell-tale signs of a hail-damaged roof include the following:

Shingles in your gutters or on your lawn
Shingles seem to be loosening or pitting
Damage to the gutters or any part of the fascia
Gaps between the channel and the roof
Shingles are losing color or thinning
Debris in the drain, downspout, or runoff

There could be signs of damage that are not visible to the untrained eye. If you don’t see any of the symptoms mentioned above but still suspect wreckage, it’s time to call in the roofing experts.

When to conduct roof inspections?

Most homeowners would schedule a thorough roof inspection after a hailstorm. That, however, should not be the case.

Perhaps the best time of year to have your roof inspected is in the fall or just before the onset of winter. Freezing temperatures can jeopardize the quality of new roof installations and shingle replacements. Consequently, new shingles cannot correctly adhere to the surface when the weather is too cold. Besides, working on icy roofs can be dangerous. Furthermore, roof problems discovered too late in the season may have to wait until spring, which may put you at risk.

The fall season is also the best time to treat moss and lichen infestations. The solutions used to combat these invaders can take a long time to work, sometimes up to 180 days. So, if you begin the treatment during the fall, you have ample time to remove it before the cold weather arrives. The treatment can then continue to work during the long winter months. Dead lichens, on the other hand, will be swept or rinsed away in the spring.

What do roofers look for during an inspection?

Roof inspectors cover many tasks, including checking for leaks, unusual wear and tear, windblown debris damage, and other problems that may have emerged during shingle installation or subsequent repairs. The scope of work varies according to the roof’s structure, materials, interiors, and quality.

Let’s take a look at how roofers inspect these roof components.

Structure

The inspector will first check the structure for uneven roof planes and signs of sagging. Then, he will check the condition of the soffit, fascia, and gutter system. Additionally, roofers will inspect the chimney (if you have it) for cracks, crumbling grout, and chimney caps damage.

Furthermore, the inspector will examine the attic venting. Improper ventilation can cause heat and moisture buildup, reducing roof life and increasing the risk of ice dams forming at the roof’s edge.

Materials

The inspector will look for stains, moss, and rust on the roofing materials. He will also investigate if there are loose, curling, or missing shingles as well as missing flashing or fasteners.

Shingle aggregates accumulated in roof valleys, on the ground, or at the bottom of gutter downspouts indicate that the roof is near the end of its useful life. In addition, the inspector will check for gaps or deterioration in the rubber boots and seals around vent pipes.

Interiors

Leaks can do a lot of damage to your house. They don’t, however, always leave a trace. Roof inspectors, on the other hand, are well-trained in this area. They can detect water seepage in attics, ceilings, and walls even when there are no visible water stains, mold, or rot.

Quality

Craftsmanship flaws may increase the likelihood of future leaks or other roof damage. While professionals may have installed them, certain factors can cause the shingles to warp over time. Inadequate flashing around vent pipes, skylights, and chimneys warning signs that something needs immediate attention.

Roofing analysis report

After the inspection, you will receive a comprehensive report on the condition of your roof. It usually comes out within the week. Aside from the assessment, the results will include advice on proper roof maintenance and recommendations on what to do next. You should arrange for the repairs before the snowfall to ensure your safety and security throughout the season.

How often should you have roof inspections?

Some roof problems, such as missing or flapping shingles, can be easily identified even without climbing the roof. Some damages, however, are not as evident to the untrained eye. Thus, it is critical to seek professional assistance at least ONCE A YEAR for a thorough inspection.

While a hailstorm is a great reminder to schedule a roof inspection, you don’t have to wait for it. You can plan it even before the monsoon or winter season arrives. Remember the adage, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Are roof inspections free?

While some roofing contractors may offer free hail damage roof inspections, they may not always be as thorough as they should be.

Your roof is your best line of defense against all types of weather, especially harsh ones. Therefore, you should not hesitate or cut corners when it comes to your roof. Better get yourself ready for a full assessment and the cost that comes with it. A thorough inspection will protect you from further damages and provide you with peace of mind throughout the year. On top of that, roofing experts can help you with the documentation required to file insurance claims.

Roof inspection costs

Roof inspection costs vary depending on the size of your home, the slope of your roof, and the type of material used. The level of expertise is also a significant consideration, as roofing materials have different issues. For example, wooden shingles rot, while metal shingles corrode over time. That’s why it’s essential to understand the different types of roofing shingles before deciding.

The weather in your area will also have an impact on the inspection. Humid climates would likely require a focus on moisture damage, whereas areas prone to hailstorms like Aurora and Denver will necessitate inspections for cracks or punctures. Hence, hiring an experienced roofing inspector in your specific location is critical to obtaining accurate results.

Whether for hail damage or otherwise, roof inspection fees in Aurora and Denver typically range between $280 and $ 440. Even so, in some cases, the price can exceed more than $600.

Types of roof inspection

You may be wondering why fees can soar. Well, aside from different requirements, there are various approaches to roof inspection. Understanding these methods is critical to estimating costs.

Physical Inspection

This standard procedure entails inspecting the house from the outside to determine its condition. To put it another way, a certified roofing professional will climb a ladder to check the roofing materials and their overall condition. Typically, physical inspection ranges from $75 to $200. However, if the expert examines the underside of your roof from the attic, the total cost may exceed the average range.

Drone Roof Inspection

If the area is difficult to access, your contractor may use a drone for $150 to $400 to get close-up footage of all surface areas. Consider hiring a professional who has a crewless aerial vehicle (UAV) certification and experience in analyzing aerial video.

Infrared Roof Inspection

Like the drone inspection, the infrared roof inspection procedure is ideal for difficult-to-access roofs. However, this method is more advanced; thus, it is more expensive than the others.

This procedure also uses a drone but with infrared rays to capture thermal imagery of the roof. This advanced layer of sophistication can estimate the surface and the amount of insulation needed. Aside from that, it can help you locate leaks and enhance your home’s heating system, which is especially useful in colder climates.

In addition, an infrared inspection can reveal areas that are losing more heat than others. It can point out areas of the house that need improvement. That is why you can expect to pay between $400 and $600 for a thermal inspection of your roof.

Commercial Roof Inspection

Due to the size of commercial buildings, roof inspection fees tend to be more expensive than those for residential properties. It can cost anywhere from $200 to $500, but it’s more likely to cost $1,000 or more.

As a result, many commercial contractors charge per square foot rather than per project. As a result, many commercial contractors charge per square foot rather than per project. They can charge anywhere between $ 0.05 and $ 0.10 per square foot. On the other hand, commercial projects are subject to additional regulations, another reason for the price increase.

How long does a roof inspection take?

Roof inspections typically take 45 minutes to complete, more so if the roof is in excellent condition. However, depending on the circumstances, it may last as long as four hours. The following factors will affect the procedure’s duration.

size of the roof or square footage
convenience of access
kind of roofing materials used
scope of work or other inclusions; for example, will it include the attic?

Roof Inspection Checklist for Hail Damage

Although hail damage can be challenging to detect at times, taking preventive measures will help you minimize damage and repair costs. Here’s a quick rundown of what to do after a hailstorm.

1. Check your roof for hail damage.

It is not advisable to climb onto your roof after a hailstorm. Instead, walk around the perimeters of your house and take photos of any visible damage. Dented, discolored, worn, curled, or missing shingles are apparent signs of damage. If you live in a two-story home, the second-floor windows may provide a good vantage point for estimating the extent of hail damage. It will give you an excellent view of the flashing and gutters, best seen from above rather than below.

2. Scrutinize your attic and ceilings for leaks and water spots.

Roof damage can be deceiving. It may or may not have visible cracks or injuries. However, keep in mind that wind and hail can cause massive leakage inside. If your roof appears to be in good condition from the outside, don’t take it for granted. Instead, look for water stains in your ceilings and light fixtures. Scrutinize your attic with a flashlight to detect any hidden damage.

3. Examine your gutters and windows.

Even if your roof shingles appear to be in good condition, you should still inspect your gutters and downspouts for dents. Dents in other areas of your roof, such as gutters and roof vents, may also indicate hidden and severe marring. Check your windows for cracks, loose weatherstripping, and torn screens as well.

4. Inspect the surroundings of your home

While some injuries, such as fallen tree limbs or broken fences, may be visible, others may be hidden. Assess the lawn furniture, outdoor decorations, and all items around your house for damage. In addition, look for signs of hail damage on all flat surfaces, such as patios and decks. Dents or hail splatters indicate hail damage.

5. Contact your insurance provider.

Organize your notes after thoroughly inspecting your home. These will be required if you file a claim with your insurance company. The same is true if you plan a more thorough inspection. Remember to save a copy of each photo or document. They will come in handy should there be a problem with the claim later on. (We’re here to help with that, as well.)

Key takeaway

If you live in a hail-prone area, such as Aurora or Denver, you should inspect your roof before and after a storm. Hail damage isn’t as minor as you might think. You should be aware that hail can cause cracks in the roof membrane, allowing water to seep into the interior of your home. Remember to plan and schedule a thorough roof inspection. It will not only save you money, but it will also save your life.

Call for hail damage roof inspection experts

This year’s historic hail storm left many Colorado residents in need of roof inspections. Remember that hailstorms happen every year. That is, you will have to schedule roof inspections every year, as well. And if you need professional roofing assistance, All-Starr Roofing is the way to go for both new and old roofs.

When it comes to roofing, our certified, licensed, and insured roofers are subject matter experts. We have extensive experience inspecting roofs for damage, leaks, and water penetration. Aside from that, we can help you with your insurance claims and provide you with an estimate for the services you need.

Go for all-stars

All Starr Roofing is a premier, family-owned roofing contractor with over 16 years of experience. We have built a reputation for integrity, industry expertise, and superior craftsmanship, making us one of Colorado’s most trusted roofing contractors.

Aside from inspection, our skilled roofers can also install new roofs. We are proud to say that we only use high-quality roofing materials like Owen Cornings that will last for many years. Whatever it is that you need, whether a roof inspection, repair, or replacement, All Starr Roofing has the skills and experience to get the job done correctly and quickly.

Furthermore, we are dedicated to exceeding our clients’ expectations with professionalism and timely completion of all projects.

For additional information on roofs and our roofing services, please visit our blogs page. You can also request free estimates or schedule an appointment through our contact form. Alternatively, you can reach us at 720-854-9433.