How Long Does a Roof Last?

How Long Does a Roof Last?

A new roof usually comes with a high price tag, but it’s a worthy investment. It can shelter you from weather, boost your curb appeal, and, in turn, increase your home’s resale value. 

However, once you’ve installed your roof and appreciated its beauty, the question is bound to leak into your mind: how long will it last?

Short answer: it depends. A roof’s lifetime can vary based on materials, installation practices, and maintenance habits. Here’s a deeper dive into estimates for how long roofs last, and how to spot when they may be getting old. 

How Long Does an Asphalt Roof Last?

Asphalt roofs usually last between 12-20 years. If you live in a mild climate and are good about maintenance, you could stretch that time span to be longer. Also, due to their simple installation, asphalt roofs are usually the most affordable roofing option. 

Signs Your Asphalt Roof Is Getting Old

Although roof replacements can be expensive, it’s usually more cost-effective to replace an entire roof than it is to do multiple repairs year after year. So how do you know when you might need a replacement? Here are a few things to look out for:

  • Your roof is more than 20 years old – This is the high end of their lifespan.
  • Your roof has curled or missing shingles – This happens due to sun and wind exposure and should be attended to before further damage is caused.
  • Your shingles look patchy or you can see granules in your gutters – When granules begin to wear off, your home is susceptible to water damage. 
  • You see leaks in your ceiling – Brown spots on your attic or ceiling mean water damage has already occurred.
  • You see holes in your ceiling – A bit obvious, but holes can lead to water damage that can be very costly.
  • Your roof is sagging – This is a sign of serious structural damage, possibly from lots of water damage. 
  • Your neighbors are getting new roofs – It’s likely yours was built at the same time as theirs, so you’re probably both within that 12-20 year time frame. 

How Long Does a Metal Roof Last?

When they’re maintained properly, metal roofs can last much longer than other types of roofs. In fact, they can last an impressive 40-70 years. That durability comes at a steeper initial price, but it could actually save you money in the long run. 

Signs Your Metal Roof Is Getting Old

Again, replacing a roof is usually more cost-friendly than continuously repairing it. Although metal roofs are very durable, they do eventually need some upkeep. Here’s how to tell if it’s time to get a new metal roof:

    • You see big leaks – Some small leaks can be easily repaired, but big ones call for a complete replacement.
    • There is structural damage – If a storm or harsh weather has altered the structure of your metal roof, you should get it fixed right away to prevent it from caving in or suffering more damage. 
    • You see rust – With time, the initial roof coating will wear out, and if you don’t maintain it, rust will start to form. An excess of rust can lead to leaks and water damage. 
    • You see big dents – Metal roofs do a great job of standing up to weather damage like hail, but as they near the end of their lives, you might start to see more and more dents appearing. These can alter the structure of your metal roof, leading to leaks and exposing your home to the elements. 

Is your roof looking a little tired? Let Werner Roofing know by calling us or contacting us online! We’re happy to come out and inspect your roof’s condition and help you decide whether a few repairs can add more life to your roof or if it’s time to consider replacing it. Our estimate is completely free and we’ll only recommend what’s absolutely necessary for your roof and home’s health — that’s the Werner Guarantee!

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.” 

5 Tips for Financing Roof Repair and Replacement

5 Tips for Financing Roof Repair and Replacement

Roof repairs and replacements are a big financial investment for many homeowners. While giving your roof the care it needs will definitely save you more problems and money down the road, it can be difficult finding a way to pay for the initial work it needs.

Luckily, there are many financing options available that can cater to your needs and make the payment process less stressful. Here are a few tips on roof financing from the experts at Werner Roofing. 

1. Refinance Your Mortgage

A mortgage refinance is when you replace your existing home loan with a new one. By doing this, you could obtain a lower interest rate and/or shorten your mortgage term, which can help tremendously when making a large purchase — like a new deck.

A word of caution: refinancing your mortgage is only useful when it’s done correctly and at the right time. Refinancing itself costs money, and it requires an appraisal, title search, and application fee that cost money as well. Therefore, it’s important to make sure that the interest rates are low enough to make it a smart financial decision in the end. 

2. Check Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

If your roof was damaged by a storm or fire, you should check with your homeowners insurance provider. If you’re eligible, they’ll likely cover a large portion of your cost, if not all of it. You may even be able to directly connect your insurance provider with your roofing company for the easiest payment process possible. 

The only negative of the homeowners insurance option is that insurance will only cover the cost if it was damaged by something other than just normal wear and tear over time. 

3. Take Out a Personal Roofing Loan or Home Equity Loan

Traditional banks and credit unions offer personal roofing loans that you could use for a roof repair or replacement. They’ll offer you a fixed sum of money upfront, then attach an interest rate to it based on your credit score and history. However, personal loans usually have higher interest rates and shorter payback periods (2-5 years) than other options. 

A home equity loan is when you borrow from the available equity built up in your home thus far. These loans have a long payback period (up to 20 years), and you can usually borrow up to 85% of your home’s equity, which makes them a great option for roof financing. However, home equity loans come with strict consequences for late payments, so it’s important to borrow as little as possible and pay everything on time.

4. Get a Line of Credit

If you have a strong credit score and history, you may qualify for a 0% interest credit card. With that credit card, you could pay for your roof repair or replacement without worrying about interest piling up. 

These credit cards usually have a limited interest-free period (1-2 years), so your payback period is pretty short. However, it’s a great option to avoid the extra interest cost that many financing options have. 

5. Work with Your Roofer’s Financing Partner

Your roofing company may already have a financing partner that can make the payment plans easier for you. At Werner Roofing, we’ve partnered with Hearth Financing to help our customers streamline the roof financing process. 

Hearth’s services are completely personalized to your situation and needs. They work with 13 lenders to find competitive loans and credit cards, and they make every effort to simplify financing terms and processes for you. They even offer a useful monthly payment estimator tool, so you can get an idea of what you’ll be paying. 

Werner Roofing is proud to offer financing options for our customers. Together with our partners at Hearth Financing, we can help you find the option that works with your budget and roof needs. For more information, give us a call, 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.” 

FAQs About Home Insurance and Roof Replacement

FAQs About Home Insurance and Roof Replacement

What’s worse than dealing with a leaky, damaged roof? Many would say, dealing with the insurance claim for it! 

Home insurance claims can be complicated and confusing, and sometimes it’s hard to know what exactly your policy covers when it comes to the roof over your head.

If you’re contemplating whether to replace a damaged roof, but not sure how your home insurance fits into the scheme of things, take a look at this list we’ve compiled of frequently asked questions concerning home insurance and roof replacement. 

Dealing with roof damage is no fun, but at least you’ll have some answers so that dealing with an  insurance claim is a little less painful! 

Will My Home Insurance Cover Roof Replacement? 

Don’t you hate when you ask a question and the answer is, “It depends.”? Well, we are sorry to break this to you, but if you’re wondering if home insurance will cover a new roof…it depends.

Most homeowner insurance policies do cover the cost of replacing your roof, BUT only if you need to replace it due to an accident, vandalism, fire, or some sort of natural occurrence like a storm. 

Roofs that are simply old, worn and torn and in need of replacement are typically considered part of the homeowner’s general maintenance responsibility. Yet another good reason to make sure you keep your roof well-maintained, perform regular inspections, and repair any problems fast!

Having said all that, it never hurts to ask. Talk to your insurance provider to see what your specific policy covers. Sometimes, older roofs may at least have some limited coverage, and every little bit helps, right? 

Of course, you will need to pay your deductible no matter what, so be sure to keep that in mind.

Will My Home Insurance Go Up If I Replace My Roof? 

Other than “Will my insurance cover it?”, this is probably the most common question out there, and in most cases, the answer is most commonly followed by a sigh of relief! Unlike car insurance, home insurance rates typically do not increase when you file a claim. Whew!

When Should I Repair vs Replace My Roof to Maximize Home Insurance Benefits? 

Insurance companies will take into consideration your roof’s age along with the cause and extent of damage to determine if roof repairs are all that’s in order, or if the entire roof needs to be replaced. Your roof’s warranty can also impact what’s covered, and sometimes policies will only pay for the depreciated value of your roof.

That’s why it’s important to understand the details of your roof and your policy, so you can make an educated decision on whether it’s most cost-effective to repair vs. replace. 

Remember, making timely repairs regularly will help you get the most out of your insurance benefits if the time comes when you need to make a claim. 

Can My Home’s Roof Help Me Get Lower Home Insurance Rates? 

Yes! Different types of roofing materials can actually save you money on insurance rates. Some shingles are more durable and longer-lasting than others, for instance, and can therefore reduce your rates. The cost of replacement for those materials, however, can come into play and impact your premium, so it’s important to consider both aspects. 

It’s also important to make sure your roof is made of proper materials for your location and typical weather for your area. Keeping your roof in good condition helps keep your premium down as well. 

Tips to Increase Odds of Roof Replacement Coverage

  • Choose roofing materials wisely (as well as the roofing company that installs them!).
  • Perform regular inspections and maintenance on your roof.
  • Fix problems right away.
  • File your claim immediately upon discovering damage, and be sure to document it with pictures as well as provide assessment and cost estimates from a reputable roofing company
  • Do your research. Learn about warranties and roofing materials that may offer insurance discounts, and talk to your agent about the details of your policy.  

Home insurance and roof replacement claims can be complicated, but getting your roof replaced doesn’t have to be. For top-quality workmanship and materials, trust Werner Roofing. Our combined 30 years of experience in the West Michigan region means we’re perfectly qualified to deliver the best value for your investment and insurance coverage. Stay one step ahead of the storm and reach out to our team to get started 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.” 

What’s the Best Roofing Shingle Color to Use On Your Home?

What’s the Best Roofing Shingle Color to Use On Your Home?

Curb appeal isn’t just about your landscaping and front door aesthetics. If you want a house that really makes people stop and stare, every detail counts right down to the shade of your shingles. In fact, the color of your shingles not only contributes to but actually makes a huge difference in the appearance of your home (not to mention the envy level of your neighbors)! 

Of course, how your house looks isn’t the only thing to consider. Which roofing shingle color you choose can also have an effect on the energy efficiency of your home. Bottom line? Choose wisely, my friends. Don’t take shingle color selection lightly. It might seem like small beans, but it’s actually a big decision, which is why we’re here to help.

How to Select a Roofing Shingle Color

 

So how do you go about selecting the best shingle color for your home? Here are 3 easy steps you should take to feel confident with your roofing shingle color decision:  

Step 1: Get Some Roofing Shingle Color Samples

The first step is to obtain some shingle samples from your roofing company. There are different brands and styles of shingles, as well as colors, so once you narrow down your list of options, get a sample of each type in a variety of shades so you can bring them home and compare.

Step 2: View Your Color Samples at Different Times of the Day

It’s important to take into account the different lighting that occurs throughout each day and how that can affect the look of your shingles, and thus the overall look of your home. Take your samples out in the morning, mid-day, and evening and walk around your house to see how the different colors look in different lighting and on different sides of your home. Don’t worry if your neighbors are wondering what the heck you’re doing, just concentrate on implementing your shingle-envy plan.   

  

Step 3: Consider the Style and Color of Your Home

When choosing roofing shingle color, it’s essential to coordinate with not only the color of your siding but also the style of your home and the structure of your roof. 

 

  • Make sure the shingle color you choose complements the color palette you’ve got or plan to have. For the best results, the shingles should have a slightly contrasting tone to the rest of your house and tie together with your shutters, front door, or accent trim. 
  • Think about how much of your roof is visible. Houses with high-pitched or sloped roofs tend to show a lot of shingle and if that’s the case, you might not want to go too bold or dark with your color choice to keep things looking balanced.
  • Ask yourself what matches best or makes the most sense with the style of your home. For instance, a trendy color might not be the right choice for a turn-of-the-century house. Also, if your roof has features like turrets, gables, dormers or skylights, consider a shingle color that best enhances these unique architectural aspects of your home.  
  • Be careful with shingles featuring blended colors or patterns. While these certainly add character and appeal to solid colored houses, they can look busy and clash with a house that has a mix of siding and brick or stone.

Beyond Beauty: What Else Should You Consider When Choosing Roofing Shingle Color?

Okay, we know you’re excited, but hold on a minute. You’re not quite ready. Now that you’ve followed the 3 easy steps above, there are a few other things you should keep in mind before you make your final decision on your roofing shingle color. 

 

  • Know your neighborhood – Check if there are any Homeowners Association rules in your neighborhood that could limit the shingle color choices you have. You might also have to weigh a dramatic statement versus resale value of your home. 
  • Keep cool (or warm) and carry on – Your shingle color can actually be a factor in the heating and cooling cost of your home. Just how much can the color of your shingles contribute to your energy efficiency efforts? Believe it or not, it can affect your attic temperature by as much as 40 degrees! So, before you land on a color, consider this:

  • Lighter shades of shingles deflect sunlight and keep your house cool.
  • Dark shingles absorb sunshine and heat, to help your house stay warm. This can also help to melt snow and ice on your roof faster, which you gotta admit is a nice bonus around here! 

 

Of course, there’s more to energy efficiency than the color of shingles on your roof. Proper insulation keeps your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer by not allowing inside air to escape. Just as importantly, good ventilation keeps air flowing, bringing in cool air and releasing warm air to ensure regulated temperatures. 

 

You know what else makes a big difference? The quality of roofing materials and the roofing company you choose!  

Finding the Right Color Roofing Shingle For You

Considering your options for new shingles? Call Werner Roofing! We proudly work with and install the best shingle brands on the market and can help you choose the best roofing shingle color and material for your home design, budget, and expectations. We’ll even come and check out your roof for free, so 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.” 

New Roof Installation Process

New Roof Installation Process

So you’re getting a new roof, huh? That’s great! But what exactly is involved in the process? 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. The more you know, the better you’ll feel about your investment. 

Roof Installation Step 1: Deciding on a Contractor and Materials

Yes, you’ve made the big decision to get a new roof, but there are still a couple of important decisions you’ll need to make next. 

First, you’ll need to decide on a roofing company. Ask around for references, collect a few estimates, compare services and warranties (not just price!), and choose the one that best fits your needs.

Then, discuss your material options with the contractor you choose, and decide on the color, style and type of shingle that works and looks best with your house.

Roof Installation Step 2: Removing Old Roofing

As the saying goes, “Out with the old and in with the new!” In most cases, your old shingles will be removed before your new roof can be installed. Your surrounding landscape will need to be protected with tarps and the neighbors will have to excuse the dumpster in your yard, as it will be needed to collect all the old debris.

Once the old shingles are removed, the roofers will be able to inspect the decking beneath and replace any damaged areas with new decking to ensure a solid foundation.

Roof Installation Step 3: Defending Against Water Damage

A non-corrosive metal, called a drip edge, will be secured along the edges of the roof to prevent moisture from building up and getting underneath your new shingles. 

Next, 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. 

Roof Installation Step 4: Installing New Shingles

Woo-hoo! Now your house is ready to get its new roof. It’s time to apply the new shingles you chose in step 1. How long it 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, though, you can expect the placement of new shingles to take anywhere from a day or two, all the way up to a full week. 

Roof Installation Step 5: Cleanup and Final Inspection

After the last shingle is placed, but before you celebrate a job well done, it’s time to clean up all remaining materials, tools, nails, and equipment, so you can say, “Ta-Da! Look at how awesome our house looks!” 

Once it’s cleaned up and looking great, your roofing company will want to make sure your roof functions great, too. A thorough inspection is the final step in new roof installation to ensure standards of quality have been met and your new roof works as good as it looks.

Roof Installation Experts

If you’re considering a new roof for your new home, or you’re ready to replace your roof, reach out to the expert team at Werner Roofing. As a trusted source with years of experience, you can rest assured you’ll receive the best quality roof for your investment. Contact us for a free installation quote and we’ll be happy to come out and help you protect your home for many years to come.

 

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.” 

How to Find a Reputable Roofing Company in Michigan

How to Find a Reputable Roofing Company in Michigan

The roof on your home is kind of a big deal. It needs to keep you dry, safe, and warm — not only protecting your house, but also your family. That’s why finding the right roofing company is a pretty big deal, too. You need roofers you can trust and depend on, especially in Michigan where you know what they say…if you don’t like the weather, just wait a few minutes and it’ll change. Choosing a roofer can be as tricky as knowing what to wear on any given day around here — sometimes any given hour! 

To determine which Michigan roofing company is right for you, here are some questions to ask and things to keep in mind that will help you make the best decision for your needs:

Look for a Licensed & Insured Michigan Roofer

If you hire a roofing company that is not licensed and insured, you are risking poor workmanship without recourse and serious liability if someone gets hurt. With no workman’s comp, for example, you can be sued if an accident occurs. 

Find out what insurance coverage the company has and ask if they are licensed and accredited in the  State of Michigan, then double-check to make sure they meet all the Michigan requirements

Ask About Michigan Roofing Experience

To ensure quality work, experience is key, not just in roofing, but roofing in Michigan specifically. Remember that whole thing about the weather? 

You’re looking for professionals who know the right techniques and materials to use for your area and your climate. They should be able to spot and repair problems and offer advice based on knowledge and facts. After all, your roof is too important to hire a contractor who’s just “dabbled” in the business, installing or repairing a roof here and there. If that were the case, you may as well ask your cousin Bob who’s been known to make a mean birdhouse. Believe us, it’s better to stick with experienced professionals!

Compare Roofing Warranties, Materials, and Estimates, Oh My!

Along with a good amount of experience, the roofing company you hire should offer materials that are well-known, trusted brands with manufacturer warranties to back them up. The roofers should also provide a warranty for their own workmanship. No warranties? No deal. Just walk away. 

In addition, before any work is ever done, a good roofing company should offer a free estimate, give it to you in writing and spell out everything that it includes. If an estimate is given sight unseen or has a price tag attached to it, keep looking. 

Lastly, it’s a good idea to compare the warranties, materials, and quotes from at least three companies to weigh your options and make the best decision for you. It might take a while, but it will be time well spent.

Find a Michigan Roofing Company in Good Standing 

Let’s face it, people don’t purchase anything anymore without first checking out reviews, whether rated by stars, thumbs up, or rotten tomatoes! Before you take any of the steps above, ask around for references and do some research on what customers have to say. 

Talk to people in your neighborhood, family, and circle of friends to see if they have a Michigan roofer they were happy with and would recommend. 

Search online for “Roofing Companies in Michigan” or narrow your search even more by including your city. Then, read each of the company’s customer reviews. 

The Better Business Bureau is also a good source for reviews and information that can help you make an informed decision.

Check All the Boxes 

If you’re looking for a trustworthy, reliable roofing company in Michigan, we just happen to know a place that checks all the boxes — give Werner Roofing a call! With over 30 years of experience — in roofing and in Michigan — plus a whole lot of satisfied customers, we’ve got what it takes to serve you and your roof with top-quality products and workmanship (backed by warranties of course!). Contact us today for that free estimate we mentioned. We’d love to work with you!

 

 

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.”