5 Signs You Need a New Roof: How to Check Your Roof From Inside Your Home

5 Signs You Need a New Roof: How to Check Your Roof From Inside Your Home

by | Oct 6, 2024 | Roof Replacement, West Michigan Roofing Blog

Sometimes, it’s hard to tell if you need a new roof until it’s too late. You may not know the severity of the situation until your roof starts leaking or serious damage occurs. This can cost you way more money in the long run. 

The first place you may see signs you need a new roof is where you spend the most time—inside your home. 

Here are a few telltale signs you may see inside that it may be time to consider upgrading your roof. 

5 Warning Signs You Need a New Roof

Is your roof starting to show signs of wear and tear? Here are five warning signs you need a new roof, or at least a repair. 

1. The Roof Deck Is Sagging

The underlying structure of your roof is called the “roof deck.” The roof deck plays a crucial role in keeping your roof stable. If you have a vaulted ceiling or can access your attic, look here for signs of sagging. 

A sagging roof deck is a strong indicator of water damage. This could result from leaks, impact from a fallen tree branch, or other external forces. 

Over time, this can weaken the structure and compromise the integrity of your roof entirely. Fixing this as soon as possible can prevent costly structural repairs down the line.

2. You Notice Signs of Water Damage or Leaking

Water stains on your ceiling or walls are telltale signs that moisture is seeping through your roof. 

You might notice yellow, brown, or even blackish discolorations in areas where water has been absorbed into your drywall. In more severe cases, you may see active drips or leaks during rainstorms.

If this is happening to you, don’t immediately panic. Minor leaks can usually be easily repaired. 

However, extensive water damage often means a new roof is necessary to protect your home’s interior from ongoing water intrusion and prevent mold growth.

3. Outside Light Is Showing Through the Roof

As you can imagine, it’s a bad sign if you can see outside light coming into your home and it’s not through a window or skylight. It’s a sign that your roof has holes or gaps, leaving it vulnerable. 

Gaps in roof boards can allow rain, snow, and even pests into your home, leading to damage that can spread quickly. Even a tiny gap can worsen over time, and a roof replacement is usually the best way to restore complete protection and insulation to your home.

4. There Is Mold or Mildew Growth Around Roof Penetrations

If you notice mold or mildew growing in your attic or near vents, pipes, or other roof penetrations, this can be a sign of poor ventilation or water leaks.

Mold thrives in moist environments, so even the smallest small leak can go undetected and create ideal conditions for growth.

Mold is not only a structural threat but can also pose health risks to you and your family, so it isn’t something to take lightly. 

5. You’ve Seen a Spike in Your Energy Bills

A sudden increase in energy bills can indicate poor insulation or a leaking roof. This results in warm air escaping during winter and cold air seeping out in the summer. 

When this happens, it forces your HVAC system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home, which costs more money. 

Check your attic for signs of drafty spots or poor insulation, indicating a compromised roof. Replacing your roof can help seal up these leaks, keeping your home more energy-efficient and reducing your monthly utility costs.

Don’t Wait on Roof Repairs: Contact Werner Roofing for a Free Inspection Today

Replacing an old, damaged roof can eliminate this issue and prevent mold growth by creating a better-sealed and ventilated space.

Now that you know the warning signs you need a new roof, you can keep your home in the best shape possible. 

If you notice any of the above issues, addressing them early can help you avoid more extensive—and costly—repairs in the future. 

At Werner Roofing, we’re here to help with all your roofing needs. Our team of experienced roofing professionals can assess your roof’s condition and provide a free, no-obligation estimate to ensure your home stays safe, dry, and energy-efficient.

Call Werner Roofing today at (616) 844-5382, or visit us online to schedule your inspection. Let us help you protect your biggest investment—your home.

Here’s What You Can Expect From the Werner Roofing Roof Installation Process

Here’s What You Can Expect From the Werner Roofing Roof Installation Process

by | Dec 5, 2023 | Roof Replacement

Getting a new roof is a significant undertaking. Whether you’re facing a necessary upgrade to protect your home from the elements or simply looking to refresh your property’s curb appeal, the process is very rewarding, but can be stressful at first. If you’re stressed about prepping your home for the roof installation process and are worried that your property will be damaged, Werner Roofing is here to put you at ease. We go the extra mile for our customers and are dedicated to protecting your home throughout the project. 

In this blog, we’ll delve into the general steps and considerations involved in getting a new roof, shedding light on what to expect throughout the journey. 

The Roof Installation Process in 5 Steps:

Knowing what to expect from a new roof installation can give you peace of mind that you’re receiving the best quality protection for your home. Here’s a look at the process of installing a new roof, step by step. 

Step #1: Choose a Contractor and Materials

Step #2: Remove Old Roofing

  • Your old shingles will be removed before your new roof can be installed.
  • Your surrounding landscape will need to be protected with tarps. 
  • Once the old shingles are removed, the roofers can inspect the decking beneath and replace any damaged areas with new decking to ensure a solid foundation.

Step #3: Defend Against Water Damage

  • A non-corrosive metal, called a drip edge, will be secured along the roof’s borders to prevent moisture from building up and getting underneath your new shingles. 
  • Underlayment and flashing will be installed, serving as a waterproofing barrier between decking and shingles and reinforcing roof valleys for extra protection.
  • All vents, pipes, and chimneys will be sealed to ensure no water can penetrate these vulnerable sections of your roof. 

Step #4: Install New Shingles

  • New shingles will be installed. How long this step takes depends on several factors, including the size of your house, the type of shingle you choose, the complexity of your roofline, and, of course, the weather. 
  • Typically, you can expect the placement of new shingles to take anywhere from 1-2 days. Any longer is an exception to the rule for more extensive and complicated projects, such as old homes with multiple layers to be removed. 

Step #5: Cleanup and Final Inspection

  • The last step in the roof installation process is cleaning up all the remaining materials, tools, nails, and equipment. 
  • Your roofing company will also want to ensure your new roof functions properly and perform a thorough final inspection. 

What Makes the Werner Roofing Installation Process Different?

Werner Roofing takes extra steps to protect your home and property during a roof installation. From creating protective “tents” around your landscaping to innovative debris control measures, we’ll show you how Werner Roofing goes above and beyond to ensure your roofing project is as stress-free as possible.

werner roofing installation videoLandscaping and House Protection: Our skilled crew starts by carefully laying down protective tarps so your property stays pristine and is resistant to damage from falling debris. 

Tenting for Landscaping and Trees: For your precious landscaping and trees, we go the extra mile with a technique called “tenting.” This involves using OSB (oriented strand board) on both sides, creating a cozy “tent” or “teepee” to shield what’s underneath.

Perimeter Wall for Debris Control: Dealing with debris is a breeze, thanks to our thoughtful approach. We set up sturdy boards along the roof’s perimeter, effectively creating a wall that prevents unwanted debris from tumbling off the sides.

Tarp Hanging for Window Protection: Protecting your windows is a top priority for us. We hang tarps from the roof that drape gracefully over your house’s walls, ensuring your windows remain safe from any accidental bumps or scrapes. We also use OSB against walls to protect windows. 

Septic System Awareness: If your property has a septic system, we’re on it. We take care to mark the septic’s location, making sure our equipment is kept from it. Your septic system stays as secure as the rest of your property throughout the roofing process.

Need a New Roof? Call Werner Roofing!

When it comes to safeguarding your home and property during a roof installation, Werner Roofing is the ultimate, reliable partner. Your peace of mind and property protection are our top priorities, and our commitment to quality shines through in every step of the process. 

If you’re ready to embark on a roofing project, don’t hesitate to contact Werner Roofing for a seamless and worry-free experience. Give us a call today to discuss your new roof needs. Your dream roof is just a call away!

Can I Stay in My House When I Replace My Roof? Here’s What You Need to Know

Can I Stay in My House When I Replace My Roof? Here’s What You Need to Know

by | Nov 28, 2023 | Roof Replacement

When it comes to replacing your roof, many homeowners are faced with the common question, “Can I stay in my house when I replace my roof?”

It’s a valid concern, as a roof replacement is a significant home improvement project that can disrupt your daily life. In this blog, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about the process of replacing a roof. 

Where Do I Go When I Replace My Roof?

Clients often ask us if they will be able to stay in their home while their roof is being repaired or replaced. To answer this question, yes – you can remain in your home during your roof project. 

On average, the roof replacement process for a single-family home takes a few days. You can count on two days as the minimum and a week as the maximum time frame (barring extreme weather conditions or major complications).

Most roofers conduct their business during the weekdays when homeowners work, so there’s minimal disruption. Though our crews are respectful and professional, replacing a roof is a lot of construction. If you work from home or spend most of your time at home during the week and you’re not sure you’ll be able to stand the noise for the length of the day, it might be a good idea to get out of the house, at least while the roofers are working.

How To Prepare for Your Roof Replacement

To help you prepare for getting your roof replaced, we’ve listed some helpful tips below to ensure you and your home stay safe throughout the installation process. 

If you’re still concerned staying in your house is the best option for you, don’t hesitate to give your roofer a call. They’ll be able to walk you through what to expect and let you know how long your installation will likely take.

1. Inform and prepare your Children

If children will be in the house while your roof is being replaced, it’s important to keep them informed about the process and establish some additional safety guidelines.

Encourage them to stay inside and enjoy indoor activities during this period, and emphasize the importance of staying indoors while the roofing professionals are at work. The roofer will need to remove your old roof before installing the new one, resulting in a considerable amount of debris falling to the ground. This debris poses a potential safety hazard for children, so it’s essential to be vigilant and ensure their safety.

2. Keep Your Pets inside and Safe

Even if you plan to stay in your home while your roof is being replaced, it’s best to consider removing or securing your pets. Similar to a thunderstorm, some animals can find the roofing process loud and distressing. They also might not react well to strangers being at their homes for an extended period. 

If you are unable to find alternative housing for your pets during this time, we suggest securing your pets in a calm, quiet room where they can have some relief from the noise, such as in a basement. 

3. Remove Your Cars

As a general guideline, relocating your vehicle from your property is advisable during the roofing process. If you typically park in the driveway, there’s a risk of falling debris potentially damaging your vehicle.

If your usual parking spot is the garage, the construction work may dislodge tools and items hanging from the walls, which could inadvertently cause damage to your car. To err on the side of caution, it’s recommended to park your vehicle on the street while the roofing work is underway.

4. Protect Outdoor Furniture and Landscaping

Professional roofers will lay down tarps to catch debris and patrol the property with a magnet after the job is done to collect any stray nails or hardware. But roofing is notoriously messy – it is what it is! 

If you have any outdoor furniture, grills, or other valuables outside your home, it’s best to move them during roof replacement. Falling debris from the roof could damage your property, so it’s best to keep them safe from harm. 

Also, if you want to protect any landscaping around your property, it won’t hurt to lay out a few of your own tarps to ensure nothing unwanted falls on your plants and flowers.   

At Werner Roofing, we prioritize minimizing debris on your property. So, we’ve made significant investments in using tools like the Equipter to keep your home relatively free of debris during the roof replacement process. The Equipter is an excellent asset that aids in collecting and containing debris, showcasing our commitment to maintaining a clean work environment and preserving your property. While it’s important to note that the Equipter may not be utilized in every job and might not catch everything, its use demonstrates our dedication to minimizing the impact of construction on your home. 

5. secure fragile items indoors

Similarly to your outdoor furniture and plants, you should also take extra measures to protect any fragile items. Items on shelves and hanging on walls, such as heirlooms, glassware, frames, and valuable decor, can be disrupted by the vibrations of the roofer’s work and lead to accidents and damage. 

It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so we recommend temporarily moving fragile items to a secure location within your home so you can have peace of mind. 

Werner Roofing Is Here for All Your Roof Replacement Needs

If you’re ready to replace your roof, give Werner Roofing a call. We are a trusted, local West Michigan roofing company known for providing exceptional service and using top-of-the-line materials. 

Are you unsure if it’s time to replace your roof? We can help with that, too! We’ll give you an honest assessment of where your roof is and let you know if you need a replacement. We know it can be challenging to make that final decision, so we’re here to help you in any way we can. Give our office a call at 616-844-5382 or contact us online today for your free roofing estimate. 

 

roofing contractor

OUR FREE ROOF INSPECTION

How do you know when it’s time for a new roof? The only way to be sure of your residential roof’s current condition is to have a licensed professional personally inspect it. Werner Roofing is proud to offer free roof inspections for every client, so you can be sure of your roof’s condition. Every Werner Roofing inspection comes complete with our promise: “We won’t recommend or sell a roof replacement unless it’s necessary.” 

SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION

How Much Does a New Roof Increase Home Value? Here’s the Inside Scoop

How Much Does a New Roof Increase Home Value? Here’s the Inside Scoop

by | Nov 21, 2023 | Roof Replacement

Whether you’re thinking of listing your home soon or in the future, the overall value of your home is likely an important factor. Obviously, you want to sell your home for a profit, so you’ll need to add equity. 

You’ve probably already boosted the value of your home by upgrading the appliances, knocking out a wall for an open floor plan, and renovating the kitchen, but there’s still more you can do! 

So, if you’re asking yourself, “How much does a new roof increase home value?” we’ve got you covered. 

Does a New Roof Increase Home Value?

Yes – upgrading the roof of your house can positively affect the property value. According to Zillow.com, a new asphalt roof can have an average ROI of 68.2%, with metal roofs at 60.9%. 

How Does a New Roof Increase Home Value?

We understand that a roof replacement is a significant undertaking, but it can add serious value to your home when it comes time to sell. Read on for a breakdown of how installing a new roof can increase your home’s value. 

1. Better Energy Efficiency

Modern roofs are considerably more energy efficient than outdated roofs. They offer better insulation and prevent heat from escaping in the winter. In the summer, they deflect the sun’s rays and keep your house cool. This provides added value for a buyer, as they’ll have to spend less on the long-term costs of heating and cooling the home.

2. Improved Curb Appeal

Frosting on top of the cake — that’s what buyers see when they drive up to a house with a brand-new roof. Curb appeal goes a long way to entice a buyer, and an updated roof can make your home stand out from the pack. 

Although it’s unlikely that a visitor has ever pointed out the state of your roof, potential buyers will. A bad roof will be glaringly obvious, and a new roof will beautifully compliment your home’s exterior. 

3. Reduced Likelihood of Costly Repairs

A state-of-the-art roof lets potential buyers know there is one less thing they have to worry about if they purchase the house. When you select durable, long-lasting materials, a new asphalt roof can last anywhere from 20-25 years, and a new metal roof could last up to 50 years! By pairing the longevity of a new roof and the decreased likelihood of needing costly repairs, you get a win-win for yourself and your home’s new owners. 

4. Increased Marketability 

Replacing the roof makes your home more marketable, attracts more buyers, and sells quickly. This is because the added benefits of a new roof will encourage buyers to submit their offers. The chances of receiving multiple offers go up when your home has a new roof, and it can even earn you some leverage when selecting an offer and entering contract negotiations. 

5. Enhanced Home Safety

A new roof not only improves the aesthetic and functional aspects of your home but also enhances overall safety. Older roofs can have hidden issues like leaks, weakened structures, or mold growth, posing health and safety risks to the occupants. 

Investing in a new roof gives potential buyers peace of mind, knowing they are purchasing a home with a secure and safe roofing system. This assurance of safety can be a compelling factor that increases your home’s value when it’s time to sell.

Ready to Replace Your Roof and Increase Your Home’s Value? Werner Roofing Can Help

With so many benefits for you and your home’s potential future owners, replacing the roof on your home is one of the most effective ways to raise the value of your home before a sale! 

If you have more questions about replacing your roof, or if you’re interested in replacing your roof before you sell your home, feel free to contact the experts at Werner Roofing.

As a trusted, local roofer, we can give you a free roof replacement estimate and help you decide if roof replacement is the right option for your home. Give our office a call today at 616-844-5382!

How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Roof?

How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Roof?

by | Sep 22, 2022 | Roof Replacement

We know that replacing a roof can be a big undertaking, but if your roof is damaged, an upgrade is necessary to ensure safety and increase efficiency, so the project is always worth it in the long run.  

The biggest question you probably have is, “How much does it cost to replace a roof?” Don’t worry – we’re here to help! 

How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Roof?

Roof repairs can be, without a doubt, some of the largest expenses you’ll face as a homeowner. But it’s a necessary investment in your property that will benefit you for years to come (the average lifespan of a new roof ranges from 30 to 100 years).

Besides protection and safety, one benefit of updating your roof is the return on investment. According to Zillow, “a roof replacement will return somewhere around 60% of its value in a real estate transaction.” A new roof is a highly marketable asset and will attract potential buyers when it’s time to sell. 

However, the average out-of-pocket cost to replace a roof is around $10,000, with the range being between $8,500 to $14,300. The two variables that affect the price are the square footage of your home and the type of roofing material you choose to use. 

Factors That Affect the Cost To Replace a Roof

No roof replacement is created equal. When you get an estimate from a roofing company, it will cover the roof size and the roofing material. 

Roofing Cost Per Square Foot

As of 2022, the average labor cost to replace a roof costs between $1.50 and $3.00 per square foot. Be sure to contact a few different roofing contractors and compare estimates. 

It’s important to familiarize yourself with the term “square.” A roofing square covers 100 square feet. So the estimate would be $150 to $300 per square. 

Roofing Costs by Type

When replacing your roof, you can choose from an array of roofing materials. Choose the material that best suits your needs. We’ll break down what each option entails. 

Asphalt

Average cost for a 2200-square-foot home: $2,500

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular choices among homeowners. They can last up to 50 years and are one of the most affordable options. 

Asphalt shingles are made of a mix of fiberglass, asphalt, and mineral composite. They’re well known for being durable, affordable, and easy to install. 

Galvanized Steel

Average cost for a 2200-square-foot home: $3,000

Galvanized steel is one of the earliest materials in the United States to be used to construct roofs. They consist of a steel core with a zinc coating to provide years of durability. 

Stainless Steel 

Average cost for a 2200-square-foot home: $14,000

Stainless steel is a premium metal that typically lasts for 50 to 100 years. They’re popular for their durability and rust resistance. 

Slate/Stone 

Average cost for a 2200-square-foot home: $20,000

Slate and stone roofing tiles are more expensive than metal or wood, but they have many benefits. They’re highly durable, fire resistant, and can stand up against high winds and hail. 

Copper 

Average cost for a 2200-square-foot home: $25,000 +

Copper roofs are stunning and are one of the most expensive roofing options. However, they do last much longer than the other materials listed. Plus, they add a great amount of curb appeal to any property. 

Clay/Concrete 

Average cost for a 2200-square-foot home: $12,000

Clay and concrete tiles only perform their best in specific geographical locations (warm, dry climates). They are extremely heavy and might require extra support for their weight, but they can be beneficial in protecting from tornadoes, hurricanes, hail, and fire. 

Types of Asphalt Roof Shingles

Since they’re the most commonly used material for roofs in the United States, we think it would be beneficial to go into further detail about asphalt shingles. Did you know that there are three major categories of asphalt roofing shingle products available?

Strip Shingles

Strip shingles are also known as 3-tab shingles. They’re made from a single layer of asphalt and have a flat appearance resembling slate. Since they only consist of a single layer, they usually weigh and cost less than other styles of asphalt shingles. 

Dimensional Shingles

Dimensional shingles are also known as architectural shingles or laminate shingles. They’re made up of two or more layers of asphalt fused together, offering a thicker and more multi-dimensional appearance. Dimensional shingles are heavier than strip shingles and have an increased lifespan. 

Luxury Shingles

Luxury shingles are incredibly high-quality and provide premium protection against weather and other elements. They present a realistic representation of the old-world wood shake and quarried slate roofing, so they’re popular among high-end properties. 

You Can Depend on Werner Roofing and Exteriors

Are you ready to replace your roof but not sure where to start? Give the Werner Roofing team a call! We’d be happy to discuss your home’s roof and provide a free, accurate estimate for the cost of your roof replacement. Contact us today!

roofing contractor

OUR FREE ROOF INSPECTION

How do you know when it’s time for a new roof? The only way to be sure of your residential roof’s current condition is to have a licensed professional personally inspect it. Werner Roofing is proud to offer free roof inspections for every client, so you can be sure of your roof’s condition. Every Werner Roofing inspection comes complete with our promise: “We won’t recommend or sell a roof replacement unless it’s necessary.” 

SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION
How Long Does It Take to Replace a Roof?

How Long Does It Take to Replace a Roof?

by | Jul 20, 2022 | Roof Replacement

Replacing your roof can be an exciting endeavor. The boosted curb appeal and improved performance can make a huge difference in how you enjoy and value your home. 

However, the average homeowner will also consider a roof replacement to be a bit of a hassle. Not only is it a large financial investment, but it can also be loud and inconvenient — possibly even causing you to stay out of your home throughout the process. 

So exactly how long should you expect the roof replacement process to take? Read on. 

How Long Does It Take to Replace a Roof?

It can take anywhere from a single day to a few weeks to replace a roof. Yes, we know that’s a pretty broad timeline; but the truth is that every roof is different, which means that every roof replacement is different. So while we can’t tell you exactly how long your roof replacement will take, we can inform you of a few things that will affect the project’s timeline. 

Roof Replacement Timeline vs. New Roof Installation Timeline

We’ve already written an article about how long it takes to install a new roof, so you might be wondering how that’s any different from what we’re talking about here. 

In most cases, it takes longer to replace a roof than it does to install one on a newly constructed home. This is because the replacement process involves one extra step: tearing off the existing roof. 

It’s important to note that, in some circumstances, you can install a new roof on top of an old one without tearing anything off. But this isn’t the most common or even the recommended solution. 

5 Factors That Affect Your Roof Replacement Timeline

Aside from the additional time needed to remove your existing roof, there are a few other factors that can affect how long your roof replacement takes. Let’s take a look at the main five below.  

1. Size

The smaller your roof, the less time it will take to replace — for obvious reasons. In fact, if you live in a small residential home, your roof replacement could be done in just one day. But again, size is just one factor. 

2. Slope

Arguably the most overlooked factor, your roof’s slope can drastically affect how long the roof replacement process takes. While steeply sloped roofs are great for directing snow and rainfall away from your home, they don’t make the replacement process easy. 

Most reputable roofing contractors put the safety of their employees first. This means they’ll be trained to move around steep roofs more slowly and carefully, and they may even need special equipment to maintain their safety. 

3. Age

When your roofer removes the existing roof, they’ll check the sub-roofing underneath it for any damage. If there is underlying damage, they’ll need extra time and materials to fix it before installing the new layer. This is why older roofs generally take more time to replace than newer roofs. 

However, this can be avoided by catching minor roof issues quickly, before they turn into major problems. Especially if you live in an older home, doing a yearly roofing inspection can save you a lot of trouble, time, and money in the long run. 

4. Material

Some roofing materials are quicker to remove and install than others. For example, it often takes less time to install standing seam metal roofing than it does to install asphalt shingles strictly because there are fewer metal panels than shingles to be nailed down. 

5. Weather

If it rains, it rains. If it snows, it snows. If it storms, it storms. The weather doesn’t wait for your roof replacement to be completed, and there’s no predicting when it will hit. 

The roof replacement process is most efficiently done in warm and dry conditions, but that’s not something we are always guaranteed here in the Midwest. While roofing crews can do their job in some weather, they are often required to stop if conditions become too inclement or dangerous. Your project’s timeline will be paused until it’s safe to resume. 

Contact Werner Roofing for Expert Roof Replacement

If it’s time to replace your roof, but you’re worried about how long you’ll have to be out of your home, contact Werner Roofing. Our crews are fast and professional, working hard to replace your roof quickly and properly, so you can get back to life as usual. For more information or to schedule your roof replacement, give us a call at (616) 844-5382 or contact us online.

roofing contractor

OUR FREE ROOF INSPECTION

How do you know when it’s time for a new roof? The only way to be sure of your residential roof’s current condition is to have a licensed professional personally inspect it. Werner Roofing is proud to offer free roof inspections for every client, so you can be sure of your roof’s condition. Every Werner Roofing inspection comes complete with our promise: “We won’t recommend or sell a roof replacement unless it’s necessary.” 

SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION