New Roofing Options and Costs
Preferred roofing materials depend largely on regional weather conditions. Areas of heavy snowfall might warrant metal roofing. In milder climates, there’s a greater array of options: clay and concrete tile, slate, and cedar or asphalt shingles. The latter, often called composition roofing, is the most popular. Accounting for 80% of the U.S. residential market, it is the easiest to install and the most economical to repair, with a lifespan of 15 to 30 years.
To check the condition of an existing composition roof, go to the roof’s sunniest side and bend the corner of a few shingles. If they’re brittle and crack, a new roof might be in order. Other tell-tale signs of a deteriorating roof: warped and wide-gapped wood shingles and cracking tiles. For an indoor roof inspection, look for sagging ceilings or stains that indicate water damage.
Roofing costs vary depending on the type, pitch and number of obstacles such as chimneys. A composition roof, often sold in good/better/best selections, costs between $150 and $250 per square. One square - an industry term - equals 100 square feet of roof and includes the cost of both labor and materials. Concrete tile runs between $350 and $450 per square, clay tile ranges from $400 to $500 per square. Both tiles have a life expectancy of 25 to 50 years. The classic cedar roof or fire-treated wooden shake roof costs between $550 and $650 per square and has a lifespan of 10 to 20 years.
To help your clients keep a good roof overhead, establish a network of professional roofers. Start with the National Roofing Contractors Association at www.nrca.net.
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