Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By David Cusick
Last Updated April 2024
Keeping your roof in good shape is important for protecting you and your home, but isn't always a simple task. Damage to the roof of your Ephrata home can lead to loss of energy efficiency, water damage, or pest infestations.
One of your area's top roofing contractors can help alleviate any concerns you might have. No matter if your roof needs repairs, a replacement, or cleaning, one of Ephrata's top roofers can help.
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Quality customer service
Customer education
Free inspections
Transparent project updates
Services Offered
Free inspections
Transparent pricing
Quality customer service
Services Offered
Quality customer service
Customer education
Transparent pricing
Free inspections
Services Offered
Quality customer service
Free inspections
Transparent pricing
Preventive services
Services Offered
Free inspections
Transparent project updates
Transparent pricing
Customer education
Preventive services
Quality customer service
Services Offered
Transparent pricing
Quality customer service
Free inspections
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Customer education
Preventive services
Services Offered
Quality customer service
Reputation for timeliness
Free inspections
Transparent pricing
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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 is a major consideration when replacing something as big as your roof. Below, find the average price range for roof replacement on a 1,500 square foot home in Ephrata, as well as comparisons between different popular roofing materials.
Roof installation is a big home improvement project that can cost upwards of twenty thousand dollars. It's essential to research and find the most skilled and reliable roofing professional for the job. Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a roofing contractor.
While most homeowners don't think about their roof every day, it plays a key role in protecting your home. Watch for these common signs that your roof may be in need of professional inspection and repair.
Your roof's age and material are key factors. Asphalt shingles, the most common residential roofing material, typically last 20–25 years before needing replacement. Schedule a professional inspection if your roof is approaching or past this lifespan to determine if full replacement is needed.
One of the clearest signs of a roof issue is leaking. Stains on insulation, walls, and ceilings — or in your attic — usually mean that water is seeping through worn or damaged shingles. Don't ignore small leaks, because even these can encourage mold growth and roof deterioration.
Visible roof decking or sheathing under your shingles is a sign that those shingles are severely curling or losing their seal. This means it's time for replacement. Shingles should lie flat to stop water from leaking into your home.
Check your shingles thoroughly from ground level or a steady ladder. Look for ones that are cracked or that no longer have their protective coating. Over time, storms can cause surface damage. To keep your roof in good shape, replace any shingles that detach or have gaping holes.
Roof flashing makes a watertight seal around chimneys, vents, valleys, and other areas where water can leak into your home. Deteriorated, cracked, or peeling flashing can allow leaks. We recommend quickly addressing any flashing issues that come up.
A structural problem can cause your roof to display sagging or uneven slopes. If you notice signs of the roof sagging, schedule a professional inspection. A roof deck that isn't reinforced will get worse over time.
The best type of roofing material for your home in Ephrata will depend on factors such as your budget and how often you're willing to do maintenance.
Metal is more expensive but is more durable, while asphalt will be cheaper up front but won't last as long. Wood roofs have better insulation than many other materials, which can be very beneficial in the winter.
Contractors in Pennsylvania do not have any state-level licensing requirements, but any contractor who completes more than $5,000 worth of home improvements annually must register with the Attorney General's Office. Proof of insurance is required to register. Your municipality may also have its own local requirements.
Generally, the fall or the spring is the best time of year to have your roof replaced. Having work done in the summer or winter runs the risk of hot or cold weather getting in the way.
Your roof does impact how energy-efficient your home is. For example, in the winter a good roof allows you to spend less energy heating your home. Some roofing materials, such as metal, provide superior insulation compared to other types.
Depending on which contractor you use, your home insurance may cover some roof replacement costs. Some insurance companies might have preferred contractors. It might also be easier to have costs covered if the damage was due to a covered weather event, such as severe winter weather. Reach out to your home insurance company to find out if they have preferred contractors, and what costs may be covered.
After your roof has been installed, check the roof's appearance. If parts are sagging or the roof isn't uniform, this is a sign that the roof was not installed correctly. Also, make sure the flashing wasn't reused. Flashing is important to prevent leaks and water damage to your home. Finally, 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 your roof's lifespan.
