How long do asphalt shingles last and when you should change them

How long do asphalt shingles last? The immediate answer is between 15 and 25 years depending on the conditions they face. There are even cases in which these shingles can leak, but it does not necessarily mean that we must replace the entire roof if they remain within their useful life.

The roof in the homes is, in general, an element that is not taken into consideration until it is too late to make small repairs, which causes us to have a large number of leaks inside the construction.

A frequent mistake is to think that since the roof lifespan is 30 years, we do not have to carry out frequent inspections to see its status. This is false, since, regardless of the guarantee of the roof, there are always factors that can shorten its life.

The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends that all owners carry out two annual inspections of the roof, one being in spring and the other in autumn, so that we can check if the construction is prepared to face the cold of winter and the scorching heat of summer.

When it comes to ceilings, perhaps one of the most common materials for its construction is asphalt. This allows the structure to be waterproofed, in addition to coming in many different shapes and colors.

Although a roof built with asphalt shingles has considerable durability and strength, it will not last forever. How long does a roof last? We will answer this question in more detail below so that you become an expert in roof design.

How long do asphalt shingles last? Let’s find out

Not all asphalt shingles are the same

Image source: Patriot Roofing

The market is saturated with asphalt or composite shingles. These are economical, and as we mentioned before, they have a wide variety of designs, so we can install them in virtually any home.

The average lifetime of an asphalt shingle is lower than that of other types of roofs, but this can be increased depending on the type we select. Among the different options available are:

– 3-tab shingle: this is the most basic of asphalt shingles. These are not very thick or resistant, which makes them practically disposable. Although their lifespan is between 10 to 20 years, they are the most economical, so they are not difficult to replace. These do not support winds greater than 70MPH, so they are mostly used in temperate regions.

Image source: Custom Home Group

– Architectural shingles: the thickness of the architectural shingles is greater than that of the previous option, which makes them much more durable to different climates. Its lifespan extends over 5 years and can last between 15 and 25 years. They are also known in the market as dimensional shingles.

– Premium asphalt shingles: the most expensive and most durable alternative. These shingles seem to be made of natural slate because of their thickness and lamination. The great advantage of these shingles is that their useful life is up to 50 years.

How often should I replace my roof?

Here are some tips so you know when the best time to change your roof is.

When was the last modification?

Image source: Tyler Karu Design + Interiors

How long do asphalt shingles last? Ask yourself this question while you remember when was the last time you changed or repaired your roof. Keep in mind that after 20 years, an asphalt roof can begin to present serious failures, so it is important to remember the date of when you installed it.

Additionally, if you have previously repaired your roof using an overlay technique (that is, repairs on the existing roof), the roof life may be much smaller than you think. Although overlapping is a quick way to repair small problems, it can hide major faults, so it is recommended to replace the roof.

Shingles curling and buckling – signs of wear

Either because they exceeded their useful life, or because the manufacturing of the shingles was defective, they may begin to present curling or buckling, which means that it is time to replace them.

These damages occur more frequently where the sun falls directly on the roof. The curling can be identified because the sides of the shingles are rising as if to roll up.

Another possibility is that the sides remain flat while the center of the shingle begins to peel off or lose granules. How long do asphalt shingles last when they present these imperfections? Between 1 and 5 years.

Rust in the roof valleys

It is defined as a valley to the convergence of two sloping roofs (downwards) through which snow or water is guided to reach the gutters. As this part is constantly exposed to moisture, it can start to rust at any time, which will lead to unwanted leaks.

Dark stripes on the roof

Do not panic, the dark stripes on the asphalt shingles do not have anything to do with the average roof life, so you should not run to replace it. The first thing is to know that these stripes are generated by the existence of an algae called Gloeocapsa Magma, which travels through airborne spores.

These adhere to the ceiling, causing those nasty dark stains. However, these can be removed using a mixture of water and bleach. Simply spray the roof gently with a low-pressure hose to avoid damaging the shingles.

Check the gutters constantly

If you find granules of the asphalt shingles in the gutters, then you will most likely have to replace the roof. Although it is normal for these to lose some granules during their useful life, when the loss is very constant, it means that they will not be able to endure much.

A large chessboard

There is no problem with replacing only a pair of shingles that have worn out (as long as these are not due to major problems). The integrity of the roof should be maintained even with minor repairs. However, you should be aware that a new asphalt shingle will stand out from the rest for its color.

It does not matter if it is the same brand, the sun and the rain will have already deteriorated the old ones, which will leave it with different tones. Some people do not enjoy this uneven aesthetic, so they prefer to change the entire roof, and it is a valid option.

Dark streaks in the leaks

If you begin to notice moisture spots on the bottom edges of the roof (or on the top of the walls), then it is likely that the water is leaking somewhere. You should try to quickly identify the leak, or it could compromise your home’s structure.

Moisture wreaks havoc

How long do asphalt shingles last? Well, in case of moisture damage, very little. Like cardboard, asphalt can be seriously compromised by water. When you see a sunken section on your roof, run immediately to see if it is affected by moisture.

Slightly prick the sunken areas on the shingles, and if you feel them soft and wet, then they have already absorbed enough water to start causing damage. This sign of rot is an alert to call an expert to inspect your roof.

The sunlight does not lie

One of the easiest ways to identify a leak is if, when walking inside your home, you can see rays of light coming from your roof. If so, it means that the shingle has a hole and that it must be replaced.

Shingle cracks

In areas where the wind is relentless, asphalt shingles can begin to crack. If the cracked shingles are concentrated in one area, it is possible to replace only a few. If, on the contrary, cracks are forming in random shingles throughout the roof, you will most likely have to change the entire roof.

Broken or worn joints

The joints or flashings are the areas that are filled with concrete, tar or metal on the roof and that can usually be found around the elements that protrude from the ceiling, such as chimneys or ventilation pipes. If these joints are cracked, the water will begin to leak.

Ice damming is a serious problem.

Although they can look very beautiful in a winter landscape, the appearance of ice damming on a roof is a sign that the ventilation is not working.

This occurs because the heat of the attic is not well distributed, which causes the ice on the roof to melt, and moves to the gutters to freeze again. If we do not remove them quickly, we will soon have large amounts of ice accumulated on our roof.

Think ahead for your roof

Don’t just be guided by what is more economical. Think ahead about the installation of your roof. For example, today there are many options for maximum energy efficiency. These cold roofs specialize in reflecting the sun’s rays to maintain a cool temperature inside the home, which will reduce our energy bill in the hottest months.

Remember to keep the perimeter of your home free of trees, as these can be deadly projectiles during a storm. They are also a ladder for wild animals.

After a storm, be it snow or rain; check your roof carefully for any kind of damage. This will prevent us from having future problems. Also, have the guarantee of your roof on hand in case it starts to fail before the due time.

If you enjoyed reading this article about how long do asphalt shingles last, you should read these as well:

• The awesome nautical bathroom décor and pictures to inspire you
• Modern bathroom door ideas to try in your house in the near future
• How Much Do Seamless Gutters Cost? What You Should Expect

The post How long do asphalt shingles last and when you should change them appeared first on Impressive Interior Design.

source https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/how-long-do-asphalt-shingles-last/

How Much Does It Cost to Build A Basement for Your House?

If you own a house and you have the possibility of adding a basement to it, you don’t have any reason not to proceed with this upgrade. Basements are the perfect way to put together some extra room for various purposes: a game room, an at-home cinema, a drive-under garage or just storage space. There are no downs to this, except one big question that pops in anyone’s head when stumbling across this topic: how much does it cost to build a basement?

Well, there are some costs involved for sure, but it’s not as expensive as you may think, especially if you know what to look for when starting this process. The great news is that the basement will add tremendous value to your property, so if you are ever willing to sell it, the investment is going to be worth it. It’s a long-term investment with a handful of benefits that one can’t simply ignore.

The cost to build a basement is highly dependent on how much work is required to put it together. The price can range from anywhere between $25 to as little as $3 per square foot. It all depends on what materials you choose, how expensive the labor is, how much excavation and grinding are needed and other influencing factors that will be discussed throughout this article.

How Much Does It Cost to Build A Basement? Let’s find out.

Basement Cost: What’s Included?

Image source: Steinhafels

Let’s begin with a list of aspects that can’t be overlooked if you are planning to build a basement for your house. All these are required and should be taken into account when figuring out the final cost:

• How do you ensure waterproofing and drainage? You’ll have to prevent water-related damage, in the long run, so even though good waterproofing will end up increasing the final cost, it is worth considering.
• What are you planning to do with it? An unfinished basement is perfect for storing things that you don’t want resting around the house. A finished one means extra rooms that add up tremendously to the overall value of the house.
• Will it be a walk-out basement? If yes, extra costs might be involved.
• What type of basement do you want? A basement’s cost will vary depending on its type. Slab designs are the cheapest, while foundations can cost more than the house itself in some cases.
• Remember that you’ll have to test the soil beforehand. In some cases, the contents of the soil can be problematic and require expensive materials. Running a test may cost you anything between $10 to $100.
• How deep you want your basement to be? Depending on its purpose, the basement’s depth may vary, and so will the cost. Digging below the frost line brings forward more issues that need to be addressed – freeze protection, thaw damage and so on.
• The city you live in will influence how much labor will cost. This is a normal economic aspect that you should keep in mind before proceeding with this upgrade.

Making It Easy for You: Basement Cost Calculator

Image source: Picture Perfect House

Once you’ve decided to start excavation for a foundation, the prices start at around $10 and go up to $20 per square foot. The price is dictated by the condition of the soil underneath your house, which you should test before deciding anything related to the basement. The equipment used by the excavation team can also influence the cost.

When calculating how much does it cost to build a basement, always consider its purpose. Basement foundations are much more expensive than slab design basements, but they have a huge ROI. Again, you need to decide what you want to do with your basement first. The difference is consistent: an unfinished, foundation basement will go up to a maximum of $25 per square foot, while a finished one can reach $100 per square foot.

The lowest a basement can cost is $10,000 and it can top off at around $180,000. Basements can be used to add storage room or living space to any house. Besides the obvious benefits, basements can also add resistance to the house, can keep moisture out and insulate against the cold. The last aspect is the reason why basements are usually more common in colder areas.

Starting Off Right: Building A Basement for A New House

Image source: ELM Construction LLC

For new constructions, the cost of building a basement goes down significantly, topping off at $30,000. Most expenses are related to excavation, but when you start off with a basement plan for new construction, it is much easier, and the labor rate is lower. Contractors will work in your favor and find the best deal that also incorporates everything you wish to add to the basement. Pay attention to what contractor you choose and there is a considerable chance to cut some costs.

Replacing a Foundation

Image source: Hanley Development

Poorly built basements may require changing the foundation at some point. You can tell how much does it cost to build a basement, but there’s no chance to predict what repairs will be needed in the future. The only way to keep yourself away from unpleasant situations is to make sure the basement is built well from the very beginning. A badly designed foundation will eventually crack, and the repair costs can be higher than rebuilding the basement entirely.

If you are building a new construction, make sure that the basement plan is put together wisely. Keep an eye on the contractor and check twice to see if any detail slipped. For existent buildings, take a close look at the foundation and see if there are any signs of damage.

Image source: Cypress Hill Development LLC

Cracks are the most obvious and dangerous signs, as well as leaking. Any of these require repairs that should be pursued as quickly as possible to avoid further damage. Foundation repairs can range from $400 for mild cracks to $11,000 for cracks that may affect the overall structure resistance of the building.

Unmanageable repairs will require re-building the basement or making structural changes, with costs varying between $20,000 for smaller changes to $100,000 for serious ones – all on top of the initial cost of the basement building.

Eventually Finishing A Basement

Some people prefer leaving the basement unfinished and finishing it on another occasion. If this is your situation, the costs for finishing the basement can range from $25 to $50 per square foot as an average, topping off at $90 for fancier results.

For a completely finished, average size basement, the cost would be around $30,000. The price is within reason considering that a finished basement can add plenty of rooms to a house. Costs vary depending on flooring options, wall coverings, plumbing, lighting and so on.

After Learning How Much Does It Cost to Build A Basement…

Image source: Meriwether Inc

It may seem expensive and it does involve a considerable amount of effort, but building a basement provides a huge return on investment in all cases. Selling a house that has a finished basement is faster because home buyers tend to prefer this feature in the detriment of houses that require upgrades. Basements create more living space without raising the need to spend thousands of dollars on a new house.

The benefits are numerous, so the cost is justified, regardless of the purpose that you have in mind. Knowing how much does it cost to build a basement is just the first step in a long research journey that will eventually lead to making a decision. Good luck!

If you enjoyed reading this article about how much does it cost to build a basement, you should read these as well:

• How much does it cost to add a bedroom to a house
• Powder Room Ideas To Impress Your Guests (71 Pictures)
• Beach House Interior And Exterior Design Ideas (48 pictures)

The post How Much Does It Cost to Build A Basement for Your House? appeared first on Impressive Interior Design.

source https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-build-a-basement/

How To Decorate A Living Room Without Coffee Table

Since the beginning of modern life living rooms played an essential role in every house where guests would be received and where most Saturday nights would be spent. Nowadays, living rooms have become the center of the house, a place where the whole family can gather around and spend time together playing board games, drinking their coffee and binge-watching their favorite TV show.

This process of turning the living room in the epicenter of the house added new pieces of furniture meant increasing the level of comfort and ease the day by day activities. One of them is the good old classic coffee table, a piece of furniture that becomes more and more relevant to our needs in comparison to the space used and frankly speaking finding the perfect one that is kid-friendly and matching with the rest of the room is often a difficult task.

But what is the exact purpose and meaning of a coffee table? Being a place where you can rest your legs, the perfect spot for your stash of remotes, the one and only table in the house that can fit your chess set or even some drinks for you and your friends.

We could spend hours or even days arguing what’s the real purpose of the coffee table, beside of course putting your cup of coffee on it, but with the passing of time homes had also seen some major changes from dimensions to design, leading to some space crisis that has been solved with bright and bold new ideas. Like, getting rid of it!

Maybe some designers may feel different, but every house should have a different design, and no one should follow some “set in stone” rules unless they really want to.

Decorating A Living Room Without Coffee Table

Two Are Better Than One

Image source: Webb & Brown-Neaves

Matching side tables have always been a great alternative to the classical single coffee table that can often take up way too much space. Plus, whenever you need more space you can just use them separately or stash them away. Using them side by side will also keep the same impression of a single table.

The Matryoshka Design

Image source: Martin Kobus Home

Another great alternative that keeps the nuance of the matching side tables is nesting tables. Just like the Matryoshka dolls, nesting tables can be stacked one on top of the other when you need more space, or you can take them out and make sure everybody has a place for their beverage.

Why Even Use a Table at All?

Image source: Michelle Gage | Interior Designer

Some people have already renounced the use of a table at all, and why wouldn’t they? Tufted ottomans are such a great alternative that can ensure one more seating place for someone’s plus one, a great place for your feet to rest and with the simple addition of a hard surface on top of it you can even improvise a table. They’re stylish, cozy and a perfect fit for a living room without coffee table.

The More the Merrier

Image source: Deering Design Studio, Inc.

Instead of picking the seamless coffee table that you will probably have to move it around whenever you need the free space, you can always pick a bunch of small tables. Chic and useful, they’re so much easier to move around while still giving you plenty of room for different purposes.

C Is for Comfort

Image source: Cristi Holcombe Interiors, LLC

For those who really want to stick close to their sofa while still being able to get their work done c-side tables have always proved useful in space-lacking areas. Easy to use and store, the c-side table is not a coffee table, but can most definitely do the same things while using less space.

Benches Are the New Tables

Image source: Watermark & Company

Longer, stiffer and with extra utilities on board, a bench can easily replace the classic coffee table and do even more things. Extra guests? Don’t worry! Need more storage room? It got you! No place for snacks? Think again!

Not Only for Expensive Places

Image source: JKA Design

Another great alternative can be a cocktail table. Its height and shape will definitely give your room a fresh new look while still taking the least amount of space possible.

All-in-One

Because sometimes you want the use of a table but not the furniture itself, the sofa tray table is most definitely one of the greatest alternatives of all times. Now you can keep your mug and snacks closer than ever and focus on the movie you’re watching. All you have to do is turn the arm of your couch into a small table and you’ll never have to leave the couch ever again.

Inside Is the New Outside

Image source: Rachel Reider Interiors

Not one of the most efficient alternatives but definitely one of the fanciest, the garden stool has made its appearance in our living rooms for some time and it stayed there until now. It can easily be moved outside or kept in and it will serve just as good as a table while letting your friends know how cool you are, and you might want to use two of them in order to fill the space.

No Table Part. 2

Image source: TZS Design

Just like its not so far relative, the storage ottoman can be a great idea for a living room without a coffee table. It also adds extra storage space to the already nice and cozy design of a tufted ottoman.

It Does It All

Image source: Crawford & Burke

For those that really need some extra storage room but also can’t afford to use any more space because they want to bring in more people the storage bench is a great alternative that can easily do both. Bring all your friends together and keep all your books away from their beverages.

Oldie but Goldie

Image source: New Perspective Design, Inc.

Another great way of having a living room without a coffee table is to use a trunk. Yeah, a trunk! Accessorized with a couple of cool pillows, a trunk will ensure a convenient storing space for anything you want while also making your mother proud that you didn’t throw that old silly overly sized wooden box away. Did I also mention how cool it will look in the middle of your living room?

Ending thoughts on decorating a living room without a coffee table

The last but not least way to have a living room without a coffee table and impress your friends with your fine taste is to use an end table. Very classy, versatile and easy to move around, end tables will always have a special place in our homes and our hearts for being of the more simplistic yet elegant solution to this matter.

The times have changed and so did our homes. Our different lifestyles and the perpetual change of home designs will always force us to think outside the box and make sure we get the best out of everything. For some of us, a living room without a coffee table seems normal while others want to keep the tradition but add something special and unique in the background. There’s always room for new and bold ideas as long as you like it!

And don’t forget to match the size of the table with the size of the sofa, or else you’ll find it quite difficult to enjoy your coffee.

If you enjoyed reading this article about a living room without a coffee table, you should read these as well:

• Interior Design For Rectangular Living Room
• Large Room Design: Top Tips for Decorating a Large Room
• 30 inspirational living room ideas

The post How To Decorate A Living Room Without Coffee Table appeared first on Impressive Interior Design.

source https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/living-room-without-coffee-table/

How To Attach a Patio Roof to An Existing House

Patios are an absolute must if you like spending time in the sunlight and just relaxing in your own comfortable space. Even so, the weather won’t always be on your side and there’s an upgrade that can give you the chance to spend time outside regardless of the conditions – a patio roof.If you’re here to learn how to attach a patio roof to an existing house, it’s probably the most straightforward guide you will get to read. Patio roofs don’t require expert planning and proficient skills. Following each step mentioned here should be enough to put together a patio roof on your own.

Finding the Right Tools for Installing A Patio Roof

Image source: Michelle Walker architects

Attaching a patio roof to an existing house is no easy job. It is doable, but it takes a lot of motivation and attention. Besides strong morale, you’ll also need the appropriate tools to get this project completed. Patio roofs can be dangerous if they are not installed properly, especially if the area in which you live in is known for harsh weather conditions that often cause roof damage. In order to avoid any risk and to keep yourself and the ones around you safe, make sure you use tools correctly. You’ll need:

• Carpenter’s pencil to mark spots
• Level
• Ladder
• Power drill
• Saw

Material wise, make sure you have those handy:

• Planks
• Nails
• Bolts
• Strand board
• Shingles
• Rafters
• Beams
• Ledger

Choosing Where the Patio Roof Will Go

There are multiple positions in which you can attach a patio roof. Each position involves more or less different attaching processes and comes with benefits and downsides. Analyze each of these and see which option suits your case the most. Once you do that, you can learn how to attach a patio roof to an existing house.

Eaves-Level

Image source: Fergus Garber Architects

For one-story houses, the most appropriate positioning for a patio roof is below the eaves. It is perhaps the most common way of attaching a patio roof and it is also the easiest to install. You’ll only have to use two rafters inside the roof to put it in place. The only downside is that its fixed position at eaves -level is neither high or low.

High Patio Roof

Image source: Neil Cownie Architect Pty Ltd

Instead of installing your patio roof at eaves-level, you can go higher and remove the house’s gutter. The backchannel will be placed much higher than in the case of the above case, and the effect will be a high patio roof. The difference between eaves-level patio roofs and high patio roofs is that you’ll need to install transfer flashing to the patio. This is the factor that gives you a few centimeters of extra height.

This is mostly recommended for two-story houses, where the ledger can be tied into a band joist. Band joists – or rim joists 0 are normally located between the floors. Finding that spot and attaching the patio roof there will have an aesthetically pleasing result while maintaining its effectiveness.

Masonry Walls Patio

Image source: SHM Architects

This is definitely the cleanest way on how to attach a patio roof to an existing house. It’s neat, it’s easy, it’s convenient – attaching the backchannel directly to masonry walls. This patio roof position gives you the best look and the best protection from the rain.

Tips to Consider During the Installation Process

The local building codes might not allow you to add a patio roof

Image source: John Kraemer & Sons

Before starting anything, make sure that the regulations in your area don’t impose obtaining a building permit for making such a change. The local building codes differ, and you might find yourself paying a fine if you don’t respect them.

Roof design load

Image source: Mark Stocker Design

All roofs are designed to support a certain weight caused by snow or other additions. You’ll have to make sure that your roof is designed for supporting an extension such as a patio roof before starting to build. The terms used for defining roof loads are “dead” and “live” load. Dead load is the actual weight of the framing material, and live load is any type of addition.

Slope

Make sure that your roof has enough pitch for the type of roof extension you are choosing. When learning how to attach a patio roof to an existent house, you’ll have to inform yourself about all restrictions from the roofing manufacturer.

Rafter

Image source: DZN Partners

Pay attention to the rafter’s size, length and the spacing left. The lumber you’re using will alter the final result, so pay great attention to these dimensions. There’s an online SPAN CALCULATOR (link) powered by the American Wood Council. It will help you determine the calculations needed.

Footings

If you live ina colder area, you might need to opt for deeper footings because of the frost line factors. The easiest way to determine footings size is to read the International Building Code and your local building codes as well.

Support Columns

Image source: Dart Awnings

To make sure that the patio roof is safe, you’ll have to add support columns. The easiest way to design those is by adding one in the two corners, farthest from the walls of the house. You can build them yourself by putting together a frame. The frame can be set in place using brackets and screws. Cover the frame in whatever material you prefer and that’s it.

Add the Ledger Board

Image source: Southwest Fence & Deck

After attaching the patio roof to your structure, you need to deal with the ledger board. The ledger is the part that holds the patio roof together, supporting it on the walls. Positioning and mounting a ledger board is the aspect that determines how angled the roof is, as well as how high or low it is. It also secures the structure additionally.

Flashing

Flashing will keep water away from the ledger board. When learning how to attach a patio roof to an existing house, this step is often overlooked. Don’t forget to add – preferably – aluminum flashing under the siding. Bend it down over the ledger board for extra protection and to ensure that water won’t get to the wall.

Rafters

Image source: All Square Contracting & Restoration

Rafters and joist hangers go hand in hand. Prepare the joist hangers by attaching them to the house and get rafters in whatever color suits your design. Then, fasten the rafters and use joist hangers to create a sturdy structure. You can use seismic anchors as well, but joist hangers are easier to install, and they are recommended for patio roofs. 2×6 rafters are the most common ones.

At this point, you can use a sliding bevel to maintain the angle where rafters meet the ledger board. The end of the rafters might turn out crooked if your house walls are crooked in the first place, but you can fix this by repositioning the rafters at that specific angle and attach them to the beams. You can also trim them according to the specific needs of the building.

Planks and Shingles

Image source: Texas Custom Patios

Finally, you can form the roof on the rafter structure. You can do that by placing your planks across the rafters and fixing them accordingly. You can also add shingles on top, or whatever other materials you prefer. A layer of strand board would be recommended if you opt for shingles, along with black roofing felt.

Ending Thoughts on How to Attach A Patio Roof to An Existing House

Once you’ve learned how to attach a patio roof to an existing house, you can get creative. Leave the beams exposed if it fits your home’s aesthetics. Use decorative trim or flashing to make the roof look premium. Hide the nails and metal caps for a neat look. There are no limits once you get a grip on how to build the structure. Plus, once you’re done, you can enjoy the outside and recharge your batteries with a dose of nature, regardless of the weather conditions, from the comfort of your home patio.

If you enjoyed reading this article about how to attach a patio roof to an existing house, you should read these as well:

• Contemporary Sofa Designs For Small and Large Spaces
• Transitional decor: How to do it and have a great result
• How to decorate a minimalist house: Tips and pictures you should see

The post How To Attach a Patio Roof to An Existing House appeared first on Impressive Interior Design.

source https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/how-to-attach-a-patio-roof-to-an-existing-house/

How Much Does A Metal Roof Cost on Average? Answer Inside

Homeowners always worry about how much will it cost to make big improvements. One of those upgrades is represented by changing the roof. Roofing comes in many different types, one of the most popular being metal roofing. The first question that pops into people’s mind is how much does a metal roof cost, but this question doesn’t have a very direct answer. You will have to analyze factors such as size, condition, and the features you want to be included.

Each roof can be personalized according to the client’s needs and requirements. Contractors will ultimately determine what type of roofing you need exactly, what materials will be required for having it done and other similar factors. Reading this article should help you figure out how much does a metal roof cost on average and what are the aspects that can influence the final price.

What Advantages Does Metal Roofing Have?

Image source: Global Home Improvement

Before stepping into the details related to budget, let’s figure out what are the benefits of metal roofing. People change their existing roof from obvious causes like structural integrity issues, weather damage, or simply aging. Metal roofing, when compared to other types of shingles, offer protection and energetic efficiency. Installing a metal roof over an existent flat/gabled roof gets your home extra protection and saves you from spending money on removing the existing roofing.

As the main benefit, metal roofing can resist for a lifetime if installed correctly from the very beginning. Metal shingles come in a simple, elegant appearance that would fit any design style. They keep the house cool during summer while also helping with saving on energy bills. The cost can be reduced to up to 40% each year, so even though the initial investment is indeed higher, the final cost for metal roofing is great for the long run.

Image source: Historical Concepts

If you are paying for homeowners’ insurance, you will be happy to hear that installing metal roofing on your home will lead to a less expensive premium. The costs usually drop by 30-35% for those who opt for metal shingles unlike cedar shakes or other types of roofs. Metal roofing does not encourage fire hazards, so it is recommended for areas where this is a dangerous aspect.

Metal roofing has it all – good looks, appropriate price, life-long resistance, and the list doesn’t stop here. The advantages definitely overcome the disadvantages, so you’d better find out how much does a metal roof cost and get straight to business.

How Much Does A Metal Roof Cost?

The average cost of metal roofing starts at $6 and goes up to $15 per square foot. The cost will be highly influenced by the type of roofing you choose, as well as the dimensions of your house. It is a wide pricing range because it can be influenced by a series of factors that you’ll need to analyze closely. A metal shingle roof will average anywhere between $7 and $11 for each installed square foot.

The Average Cost

Image source: StoneHorse Design, Inc.

The average cost of an entire roof replacement with metal shingles is around $11,100 while the minimum cost doesn’t go over $7,000. Depending on the sizes and shingles used, the maximum cost can go up to $30,000. Even though, how much does a metal roof cost is highly affected by what materials you select.

Metal Roof Cost Based on Material

Image source: Hippo Roofing

A roofing project’s cost is dictated by materials like panels, flashings, underlayment, and other accessories or miscellaneous items that may be needed for completing the metal roof installation. In this sense, you should take into account the following: the quality of metal used makes the cost per square foot range from $2 to $15. Aluminum shingles will cost more than steel ones, but less than copper or zinc roofing panels. It is recommended to calculate roofing materials with included waste and overage.

Metal Roof Cost with Labor Expenses Added

After putting together the materials needed and figured out how much does a metal roof cost based on it, you’ll have to focus on labor expenses. Unless you know how to install roofs yourself, the labor cost will add up to $3 to $12 per square foot to the final price. The average cost paid is $5 per square foot. Taking into account the average roof sizes, the final price of labor expense only could range anywhere between $3,000 to $8,000.

Designing and Additional Cost Factors

Image source: Smith & Vansant Architects PC

You will also need a design to determine the final look of your metal roof. For that, most homeowners have their roof plan done beforehand. Planning the roof installation is highly important because otherwise, it would be much more challenging for the contractor to put together the job, thus raising the labor cost.

A regular roof usually has one pitch, but depending on your house there can be up to three. These pitches can be low, medium or high ones, rising more and more every 12 inches. Without a proper design plan, they can be problematic and time-consuming.

Moreover, a design plan can cut costs if it makes the job simpler through minimal design and exact details. An elaborate plan can have the inverse effect and increase the cost, but this is the choice of the homeowner. The more valleys, pipes, chimneys or other roof elements the plan has, the longer it will take to finish the project and the more expensive it will be.

Besides proper planning, additional costs might be involved in the project. New metal roofing might require removing the old roof, which can add up to $1,500 to the final cost. Materials will have to be brought over and sent back – these can be ensured by the contractor, but if they are not, you’ll have to arrange hauling employees and materials as well. Don’t forget to add taxes and insurance to the costs.

Why Is Metal Roofing More Expensive Than Asphalt Roofing?

Image source: Patriot Roofing

Metal roofing is of higher quality and longer lasting than asphalt roofing. In contrast, asphalt roofing doesn’t require such an expensive installation, as it can be put together by workers with less skill and expertise. With metal roofing, special equipment, as well as expertise, are required for proper installation.

Image source: Littlewolf Architecture

A metal roof costs more because it generally lasts a lifetime (most warranties are 50+ years), while asphalt roofing lasts for around 20-25 years and impose replacement. Metal roofing is maintenance-free while asphalt roofing might involve upkeep costs. For harsher weather conditions, metal roofing is definitely recommended over asphalt roofing that can suffer damage from extreme temperature changes.

So… How Much Does A Metal Roof Cost?

Image source: Sunbiosis PLC

As you may notice yourself, figuring out how much does a metal roof cost beforehand is pretty difficult because of the myriad of aspects that can influence the final cost. The average costs might give you an idea of how much money you should save for this upgrade, but you’ll only have an exact cost once you decide what type of metal roofing you want, what contractor you will work with, dimensions, design and so on. The best part is that once you go for metal roofing, you won’t have to worry about making this upgrade ever again.

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