Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Written By David Cusick
Last Updated April 2024
Your roof protects you from the elements and insulates your home, but keeping it in top shape isn't always simple. When the weather in Harwich gets rainier, damage to your roof is more likely.
For all issues, big or small, there's a local roofing contractor who can help. Use our guide to connect with one of the top roofers in Harwich.
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Quality customer service
Customer education
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Free inspections
Quality customer service
Transparent pricing
Preventive services
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Preventive services
Transparent pricing
Free inspections
Customer education
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Transparent pricing
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Free inspections
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:
Cost planning is important when tackling a project as big as replacing your roof. Below, we provide the average price range for replacing a roof on a 1,500 square foot home in Harwich. We also outline price differences between popular roof materials.
Installing a new roof is a big home renovation that can cost tens of thousands of dollars. It's crucial to research extensively to find a highly skilled and reputable roofing company for the job. Here are some key factors to consider when hiring a roofer.
While most homeowners don't think about their roof every day, it plays a key role in protecting your home. Look out for these common signs that your roof may need an inspection and repairs from a professional roofer.
The age and material of your roof are key factors. Asphalt shingles, the most popular residential roofing material, typically last around 20–25 years before needing to be replaced. If your roof is approaching or past this lifespan, have it evaluated to determine if full replacement is needed.
One of the most obvious signs of a roof issue is leaking. Stains on insulation, walls, and ceilings — or in your attic — usually mean that water is seeping through damaged or worn shingles. Don't ignore small leaks, because even these can encourage mold growth and roof deterioration.
If you can see roof decking or sheathing beneath your shingles, it means those shingles are curling substantially or losing their seal, and replacement is required. Shingles should lie flat to prevent water from leaking into your home.
Check your shingles thoroughly from ground level or a steady ladder. Look for ones that have cracks or that are missing granules. Over time, storms can cause surface damage. To keep your roof in good condition, replace any missing shingles or ones that are openly gaping.
Roof flashing provides a weatherproof seal around valleys, vents, chimneys, and other areas that penetrate the roof. If this metal flashing is coming loose, cracked open, or worn down, it can allow leaks. Problems with roof flashing should be addressed promptly.
An uneven roofline may indicate a structural issue that requires professional evaluation. Without properly addressing and resolving the issue, a sagging roof will get worse over time.
The best type of roofing material for your home in Harwich will depend on things like your budget and how frequently you want to do maintenance.
Metal costs more 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.
For smaller home improvement jobs, a Massachusetts contractor might need only a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration. For large projects, a company or contractor will need a Construction Supervisor License (CSL) along with the HIC registration. Both are provided by the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.
The contractor whom you sign a contract with must hold an HIC registration; for larger jobs, the CSL may be held by someone else, for example if work is subcontracted out.
It generally takes around one to five days to replace a roof. Factors that could influence the timeline include the size of your roof, how easily accessible it is, and the weather in Harwich during the process. .
Your roof absolutely impacts how energy-efficient your home is. For example, in the winter a good roof allows you to spend less energy heating your home. Certain materials, like metal, provide better insulation than other types.
Insulation is important to think about, since a home with good insulation lowers your energy costs from heating and cooling your home. Spray foam insulation is one of the best types because it is long-lasting and moisture-resistant. It also seals gaps and cracks, which prevents leaks. However, it is also more expensive than other types of insulation.
How soiled your roof is, in addition to what it's made of, will decide how your contractor cleans it. Power washing can be used on some roofs, but it isn't recommended for materials like asphalt tiles. "Soft washing" is done with tools like brooms and brushes, and employs chemicals like detergent and bleach.
