Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By David Cusick
Last Updated April 2024
Maintaining your roof is important for protecting you and your home, but isn't always an easy task. Doing regular maintenance on the roof of your Greenbelt home can help prolong its life and reduce the need for expensive repairs.
One of the top roofing contractors in your area can help with any concerns you may have. Whether your roof needs repairs, a replacement, or just a bit of cleaning, one of Greenbelt's top roofers can help.
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Customer education
Quality customer service
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Preventive services
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Services Offered
Free inspections
Transparent pricing
Quality customer service
Customer education
Services Offered
Transparent project updates
Honors appointment windows
Customer education
Quality customer service
Transparent pricing
Services Offered
Customer education
Transparent project updates
Transparent pricing
Quality customer service
Free inspections
Locally owned
Preventive services
Services Offered
Customer education
Transparent pricing
Preventive services
Free inspections
Quality customer service
Services Offered
Honors appointment windows
Customer education
Preventive services
Quality customer service
Free inspections
Transparent pricing
Services Offered
Customer education
Free inspections
Quality customer service
Transparent pricing
Services Offered
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:
For a project as big as roof replacement, cost matters. Below is the typical price range to replace a roof on a 1,500 square foot home in Greenbelt. We also compare costs for common roofing materials.
A new roof installation is a large home renovation that can run over twenty thousand dollars total. It's essential to research and find the most qualified and reputable roofing company for the job. Here are the top things to evaluate when selecting a roofer.
You may not think about your roof every single day, but it plays a vital role protecting your home. Look out for these common signals that your roof needs to be inspected and repaired by a professional roofer.
Your roof's age and material are key factors. Asphalt shingles, the most popular residential roofing material, normally last about 20 to 25 years before needing to be replaced. Schedule a professional inspection if your roof is approaching or past this lifespan to determine if full replacement is needed.
Leaks are a common sign of roof issues. Water leaking through worn or damage shingles often leads to water stains on walls, ceilings, and insulation, or in your attic. Don't neglect even small leaks, as leaks of any size can cause mold and other issues.
Seeing roof deck boards or sheathing under your shingles is a sign that those shingles are severely curling or losing their seal. This means the shingles likely need replacement. Shingles should lie flat to stop water from entering your home.
Examine your shingles thoroughly from ground level or a safe ladder. Look for ones that are damaged or that no longer have their protective coating. Over time, storms can cause surface damage. To keep your roof in repair, replace any shingles that detach or have gaping holes.
Metal flashing on your roof seals off valleys, vents, chimneys, 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 your roof shows signs of sagging or unevenness, schedule a professional inspection. These issues could indicate a structural problem. A sagging roof that's not given adequate structural reinforcement or full replacement will continue worsening over time.
The best type of roofing material for your home in Greenbelt will depend on factors such as your budget and how frequently you want to do maintenance.
Metal is more expensive but is more durable, while asphalt will be cheaper up front but will require more maintenance. Wood roofs have better insulation than many other materials, which can be very beneficial in the winter.
Typically, roofing work is considered home improvement, in which case your roofing contractor will require a license from the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). To be licensed with the MHIC, a contractor must have at least two years' work experience and provide proof of general liability insurance.
The best time of year for a roof replacement is spring or fall. If you start your roofing job in the summer, warm weather in Greenbelt can slow down work.
Your roof does impact the energy efficiency of your home. For example, in the summer a good roof helps you cool your home more efficiently. Certain roofing materials, such as metal, provide superior insulation compared to other types.
Spray foam insulation in one of the best types of insulation for your roof. It lasts longer than other kinds and also seals any cracks in your roof. The disadvantage is that it costs more than other types of insulation.
Depending on which contractor you use, some roof replacement costs may be covered by your home insurance. Some insurance companies might have preferred contractors. It may also be easier to have costs covered if the damage was due to a covered weather event, such as a tornado. Speak with your home insurance company to learn whether they have any preferred contractors, and what costs might be covered.
