The Few and the Fearless: A Blog About Roofers

While having your roof completely replaced is a big project to undertake, there are a variety of ways you can lower the total cost. Choosing the right roofing material, exploring your short-term options, and taking on some of the work yourself can make a noticeable difference.

Use a Less Expensive Material

Roofing materials come in all shapes and sizes, and choosing a different material for your new roof doesn't have to mean sacrificing quality. For example, if you currently use clay tiles, switching to the more common asphalt shingle could be noticeably less expensive, especially if you have a large roof.

The best material may depend on where you live, the climate in your area, how your roof is structured, and other factors, but if you aren't completely set on one type of material, choosing something else could be more cost-effective. If you aren't sure what would work best for you, schedule a consultation with a contractor to talk about your options.

Install a Second Layer

If your current roof is asphalt shingle, you can save some money in the short term by having a second layer of shingles installed over the first rather than having the first layer completely replaced. When installed properly, this will get you a new roof that will still last you many years at a much lower cost than a total replacement.

There are some potential downsides to adding a second layer, such as the strain of the added weight on your roof and an increased risk of water damage due to poor flashing or trapped moisture, but if your contractor considers it a safe option, it could be just what you need for a more short-term solution.

Remove Your Own Roof

Much of the cost of replacing a roof comes down to labor, as tearing up a roof and completely replacing it is a lot of work. You may be able to save some money by doing some of that work yourself.

For example, removing your existing roof can be tough but is primarily time-consuming. Removing your old roof yourself requires proper safety precautions—scaffolding and safety harnesses in particular are very useful—as well as a way to dispose of old roofing material, such as a rented dumpster. If you feel safe taking this on yourself, this is a substantial part of the process that will no longer need to be paid for. If you opt to do this, double-check with your contractor to make sure that removing your old roof isn't part of your contract, or that this doesn't impact their willingness to complete the job.   

Getting a new roof is a big project, so take the time to do some research and see the best possible option you can get. Reach out to a roofing service to learn more.