Is it just us or does Northern Virginia seem to be getting windier? It seems like every week there’s a new storm or microburst complete with downed trees in the road and roof shingles flying. This has many of our neighbors thinking about roof replacement and wondering when is the best time to replace their roofs. DryHome is ready to help you with roof replacement decisions at any time of year, but there are a few important factors to consider when making your plan.
Roof Replacement: Have A Plan in Place
Being proactive is the best approach when considering a roof replacement. By not waiting until your shingles are torn off during a storm, you give yourself some flexibility in terms of when to replace it or repair it. However, if you wait until the damage is done, you have far less flexibility and put yourself in a position to pay more.
If your roof is starting to age, the best option is to have a trusted roofing contractor take a look before the worst happens. If you wait until after a major storm, you’ll be competing with homeowners around the area for contractors and materials. Prices tend to be higher and wait times longer. A proactive approach lets you replace your aging roof with high-quality, weather-resistant materials before the damage is done.
Will Insurance Cover My Roof Replacement?
Many clients consider waiting until a big event in hopes that insurance will cover a replacement. But in our experience, insurance companies often pay less than clients expect or not at all when it comes to roof damage from wind, hail or water. In the case of an older roof, you may find that insurance companies pay less based on its decreased value and not nearly enough to cover a full replacement with improved materials. Our decades of experience working with clients have confirmed that the way to get the best price is by acting before an emergency situation happens. This gives you more time, flexibility and choices.
Signs My Roof May Need Replacing
Before the next big storm, here are a few warning signs to look out for:
- Worn or aged shingles
- Missing shingles
- Curled shingles
- Deterioration in the “valley” or joint where two roofs meet, usually because of water damage
- Deterioration in the plywood underneath the shingles
- When your roof reaches 20 years, it’s good to have a pro take a look, even if you don’t notice any specific damage
When Is Peak Roofing Season?
Roofing isn’t as seasonal as some contracting professions, and roofers in our region are essentially ready to roll year-round. As a general rule, late summer and fall are peak months for client demand. This is the sweet spot when the Mid-Atlantic rainy season is over, and summer storms have blown through. The weather is typically dry, and homeowners are also starting to think about winterizing their homes. Late summer and fall are also when waitlists may be a little longer, and materials are pricier because of increased demand. Winter or early spring can often be a good time to get your roof repaired without a wait, and you may find prices lower during an off-peak period.
Roof Replacement: Contact the Pros
Whether you’re carefully planning to replace an aging roof or looking to repair unexpected damage, the most important tip is to call a reputable professional like DryHome to assess your roof. We’ll inspect your home, talk about existing and potential issues, and give you an honest estimate. If your roof needs to be replaced, we’ll recommend the best material to protect your home, inside and out, long term. It’s your best line of defense against the elements–including that infamous Loudoun County wind.
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