Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By David Cusick
Last Updated April 2024
Your roof insulates your home and protects you from the elements, but keeping it in top shape isn't always simple. You want the roof of your Ames home to stand up to all types of weather without failing.
One of your area's top roofing contractors can help alleviate any concerns you may have. No matter if your roof needs repairs, a replacement, or cleaning, one of Ames' top roofers can help.
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Quality customer service
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Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on roofers to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
Price is an important consideration when replacing your roof. Below is the average price range to replace a roof on a 1,500 square foot home in Ames. We also highlight prices for popular roofing materials.
A new roof installation is a major home renovation that can run over twenty thousand dollars total. It's essential to research and find a highly reviewed and recommended roofing company for the job. Here are the top things to evaluate when hiring a roofer.
Though most homeowners don't think about their roof on a daily basis, it provides critical protections for your home. Keep watch for these common signs that your roof may need inspection and repairs from a professional roofer.
Your roof's age and material are key factors. Asphalt shingles, the most popular residential roofing material, normally last 20–25 years before needing replacement. Have your roof evaluated if it’s nearing or past this lifespan to determine if it needs to be replaced.
One of the most obvious signs of a roof problem is leaking. Stains on walls, insulation, and ceilings — or in your attic — usually indicate that water is seeping through worn or damaged shingles. Don't ignore small leaks, because even these can encourage mold growth and roof damage.
If you can see the roof decking or sheathing material underneath your shingles, it means those shingles are severely curling or losing their seal and need replacement. Shingles should lie flat to prevent water from entering your home.
Examine your shingles closely from a sturdy ladder or while on the ground. Look for shingles that show cracks or no longer have their protective granule layer. Storms can cause exterior damage over time. To keep your roof in good shape, replace any shingles that are no longer attached or are openly gaping.
Metal flashing on your roof creates a watertight barrier around valleys, chimneys, vents, and other areas where water can leak in. If the flashing is developing cracks, peeling away, or deteriorating over time, it may leak. Promptly take care of any flashing issues.
If you notice your roofline sagging or sloping unevenly, it could be a sign of a problem with the structure that requires further inspection by a roofer. A sagging roof deck will worsen over time if not given proper reinforcement or replaced entirely.
The best type of roofing material for your home in Ames will be decided by several factors, including your budget and how often you want to do maintenance.
Asphalt is less costly, while materials like metal are more expensive but last longer. You also might choose a material like wood for its environmentally friendly nature.
All contractors are required to register with the Iowa Division of Labor if they earn more than $2,000 a year in their trade. All contractors must have proof of insurance, and contractors whose primary location is outside of Iowa must be bonded.
The best time of year to have your roof replaced is spring or fall. If you try to schedule a project during the wintertime, cold weather in Ames could extend the working timeline.
Your roof can impact the energy efficiency of your home. For example, a good roof helps you spend less energy heating your home during the winter months. Some materials (like metal) are more energy-efficient than others.
Spray foam insulation in one of the best types of insulation. It lasts longer than other kinds and also seals any cracks in your roof. The downside is that it's more expensive than other types of insulation.
After your roof has been installed, check the roof's appearance. If it looks uneven or not uniform, this is a sign that the roof was not installed properly. Also, check that the flashing wasn't reused. Properly installed flashing is important to keep leaks and water damage at bay. Lastly, you'll want to see that your contractor placed an underlayment between the shingles and sheathing of your house. This helps prevent leaks and extends the life of your roof.
