How to Build a Roof For Your Home, From Start to Finish
Building a roof is a serious but rewarding project. If you're up to the task, use this step-by-step guide to learn how to build a roof without the help of a contractor.
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Building a roof is a serious but rewarding project. If you're up to the task, use this step-by-step guide to learn how to build a roof without the help of a contractor.
Learn common roofing terms to help you speak more confidently to roofing contractors and make smarter consumer decisions when purchasing a new roofing system.
Before you hire a pro to repair or replace your roof, you’ll need either a roofing estimate or a roof inspection. Here’s the difference between those two terms.
Attic ventilation is crucial for your home’s energy efficiency. Ridge vents and turbines are both popular solutions, but each has its own pros and cons. Here we’ll take a look at these roof vents and which provides the best airflow for your attic.
What are the benefits of ridge vents? From proper ventilation to aesthetics, find out in this guide if ridge vents are right for your home.
Roof vents help extend your roof's life and ensure your home stays comfortable. Learn about the different types of vents and how much they cost to install.
Adding or replacing a roof vent ensures proper attic airflow. Learn how to install a roof vent yourself to remove hot air and reduce moisture in your attic.
Installing attic insulation can save you money on your energy bills if done correctly. Read this before adding insulation to your attic to get the most energy savings.
Roof insulation can help regulate your home’s temperature. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the best types of roofing insulation.
Roof sealants prolong your roof's life span and protect it against the outdoor elements. Learn all about different roof sealants so you can find the perfect type for your home.
Every shed needs a roof. Learning how to build a shed roof engages your creative side, requires precision, and exercises several of your DIY skills.
To cut metal roofing, you just need the right measurements and a few simple-to-use tools. Learn how to cut metal roofing quickly and safely with this guide.
Painting your metal roof can add longevity to the material. Find out what tools, paint, and equipment you’ll need to ensure it will last you for decades.
If your Cape Cod home feels cramped, it’s possible to raise the roof to create more headroom in the attic and add extra living space for your family.
A roof will last anywhere from 15 years to more than 175 years, depending on the type. See how long your roof is expected to last.
Big or small, your project is a significant investment. That’s why we recommend interviewing at least three qualified roofers before making a hiring decision. Ask the following questions to determine whether a pro is the right fit for your project:
Installing new roofing without removing your old shingles could mean missing soft spots or other signs of deterioration. Installing new material over faulty roofing can cause sagging and necessitate premature repairs.
Roofing projects produce lots of scraps, which means it’s important that your pro has a plan to tidy up, both during and after the job. Be sure your pro picks up smaller items as well. Leaving trash like nails outside of your home can pose a danger to small children and cause flat tires.
Note: Trash containers can crack asphalt and damage your landscaping. Outline the best place for a container before your pro has it delivered.
Storing lumber, hardware and heavy building materials in the wrong place can damage gardens, grass and trees. Highlight sensitive areas and ask how your pro plans to keep them safe. Ask about vehicles in your yard as well. Unexpected traffic can cause ruts and crack walkways and patios.
Roofing replacements and repairs expose the interior of your home to the elements. Failing to protect these areas during inclement weather can cause extensive damage and job delays. Be sure your pro plans to use tarps, plastic sheeting or other waterproofing methods to keep your home safe. Additionally, ask whether your pro will inspect your home during rain or snow to ensure the covering is working.
Drip edges are pieces of aluminum that ensure water runs into your gutters rather than behind them. These are important in avoiding roof rot and issues like fascia deterioration and foundation damage. Drip edges are not always standard in roof repairs or replacements. Ask your pro whether they’re included in your job.
The average cost to hire a roofer is between $40 and $80 per hour, while some roofing experts may be more expensive, there will typically not be any cheaper roofing option that would be qualified and licensed to do the work.
The average cost for a repair is around $600. However, each project is different and costs can range from $300 up to several thousand depending the material and size of roof.
Yes. Every state has their own requirements for licensing and certifications for roofers, and some stats don't require one. Be sure to check our state licensing tool to review the local roofing guidelines.
There are several questions or things to know before hiring a roofer to do any work on your home.
What is the full company name and address and are they licensed?
Do they have insurance?
Do they use roofing subcontractors?
Do they offer a warranty?
Do they have any references?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2020, there are 128,680 roofers employed in America. Their average salary is $22.60 per hour, with an annual wage of $47,010. Florida has the most roofers employed (22,990) with California (19,550) following just behind. New York has the highest average hourly wage for roofers at $31.92 per hour.