Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By David Cusick
Last Updated June 2024
Maintaining your roof is important for protecting you and your home, but isn't always a simple job. Especially during the rainier parts of the year, the roof on your Fort Lewis home might be at risk of damage.
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 just a bit of cleaning, one of Fort Lewis' top roofers can help.
Quality customer service
Customer education
Transparent project updates
Transparent pricing
Preventive services
Award_winning
Free inspections
Honors appointment windows
Services Offered
Quality customer service
Free inspections
Transparent project updates
Customer education
Preventive services
Transparent pricing
Services Offered
Preventive services
Quality customer service
Honors appointment windows
Transparent project updates
Transparent pricing
Free inspections
Services Offered
Transparent pricing
Free inspections
Reputation for timeliness
Customer education
Services Offered
Free inspections
Customer education
Preventive services
Award_winning
Quality customer service
Transparent pricing
Services Offered
Preventive services
Honors appointment windows
Customer education
Quality customer service
Transparent pricing
Free inspections
Services Offered
Customer education
Reputation for timeliness
Quality customer service
Transparent pricing
Transparent project updates
Award_winning
Free inspections
Services Offered
Award_winning
Customer education
Transparent pricing
Quality customer service
Services Offered
Transparent pricing
Free inspections
Customer education
Preventive services
Quality customer service
Services Offered
Free inspections
Locally owned
Preventive services
Quality customer service
Transparent project updates
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 substantial as roof replacement, price matters. Below is the usual price range to replace a roof on a 1,500 square foot home in Fort Lewis. We also compare prices for common roofing materials.
Installing a new roof is a large 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 some key considerations when choosing a roofing contractor.
While the average homeowner may not spend a lot of time thinking about their roof, a roof plays a vital role in keeping a home safe and secure. Be on the lookout for these signs that your roof might need professional attention.
The age and material of your roof are important. Asphalt shingles, the most common roofing material for homes, normally last about around 20–25 years. If your roof is approaching or past this lifespan, schedule an inspection to see if it needs to be replaced.
Leaks are a clear sign that your roof requires repairs. Stains on walls, ceilings, or insulation, or in your attic often signal that water is getting through deteriorating shingles. Even small leaks should be taken care of promptly, as they can cause mold and more harm over time.
If you can see roof sheathing or decking under shingles, it indicates that those shingles are severely curling or losing their seal. This means it's time for replacement. Shingles should lie flat to prevent water from leaking into your home.
Carefully inspect your shingles from the ground or a safely-placed ladder. Look for any shingles that are cracked or are missing granules. Over time, environmental factors like storms can cause surface damage. To keep your roof in good shape, you should replace any shingles that are no longer attached properly or that have gaps.
Metal flashing on your roof seals off vents, chimneys, valleys, and other areas where water can leak in. If the flashing is developing cracks, peeling away, or deteriorating over time, it may leak. Promptly address any flashing issues.
A structural problem can lead to roof sagging or uneven slopes. If you notice signs of the roof sagging, schedule a professional inspection. An improperly supported roof deck will only get worse without proper support.
The best type of roofing material for your home in Fort Lewis will depend on factors such as your budget and how frequently you're willing to do maintenance.
Metal costs more but lasts longer, while asphalt will be cheaper up front but won't last as long. Wood has better insulation than many other roofing types, which can save you money during colder months.
In Washington state, all contractors are required to register with the Department of Labor & Industries. Roofing contractors are not required to hold any additional state-level licensure unless they work with asbestos. Make sure that you check with your municipal government to determine if there are any local requirements.
Roof replacement normally takes between one and five days. This timeline may be affected by factors like the weather in Fort Lewis, the accessibility of your roof, and its size. Be prepared for Fort Lewis' rainy weather to slow down progress.
Generally, the fall or the spring is the best time of year to have your roof replaced. In Fort Lewis, we highly recommend avoiding the wintertime if you can, as cold temperatures can negatively affect the project's timeline – not to mention you may be cold while contractors are working.
Insulation is important to consider, since a home with good insulation lowers your energy costs from heating and cooling your home. Spray foam insulation is one of the best kinds since it is long-lasting and moisture-resistant. It also seals gaps and cracks, preventing 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" uses tools like brushes and brooms, plus chemicals like detergent and bleach.
