Over time, roof replacement has had a very common problem, clients have had surprises that turn into the worst “What I ordered versus what I got” stories.

Replacing your roof is one of the biggest and most expensive home improvement projects you will ever take on. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the reality of getting a roof replacement and how it can often be quite different from what homeowners initially expect. And then how to manage these expectations.

Now, we’ll explore the common expectations surrounding roof replacements and contrast them with the reality that it often turns out to be.

Expectation: Roof Replacement is a Straightforward Process 

Many homeowners start with the assumption that roof replacement is a relatively straightforward process – you hire a contractor, they remove the old roof and install a new one. On the contrary, what ends up happening most times in roof replacements is that it gets complicated very quickly because of a lot of unpredictable factors that affect the project’s timeline and cost.

Reality: You can’t be 100% prepared for the potential challenges.

A roof replacement project typically goes like this:

Your roofing company comes for inspection and preparation, then they remove the old roofing materials. Inspecting and repairing the underlying roof deck is next. Then installation of underlayment and flashing, installation of the new roofing materials, and finally, clean-up and final inspection. You’ll find that for each stage there is almost always something you can’t fully prepare for. From finding hidden damage or rot in the roof deck to having to deal with unexpected weather delays. 

Don’t forget that factors like the age and condition of your home, the complexity of the roof design, and many other things can all affect the scope and duration of the project.

Expectation: It’s a Very Quick Process

Another common expectation is that a roof replacement will be a relatively quick process, taking only a few days or a week at most. This expectation is often based on the assumption that the roofing crew will work continuously until the job is done.

Reality: Weather and Other Factors Can Cause Delays

While some roof replacements can be completed in a matter of days, the reality is that weather conditions and other factors can significantly impact the project timeline. Roofing work is generally not performed in wet or extremely cold weather, as these conditions can compromise the integrity of the roofing materials and increase safety risks for the crew. Unexpected rain or snow can easily delay a project by several days or even weeks.

Even factors like the availability of materials, the size of the roofing crew, and the complexity of the job can all affect the duration of the project. In some cases, a roof replacement that was expected to take a week could end up taking two weeks or more.

Expectation: The Cost doesn’t change during the project.

Naturally, you’re likely to expect that the cost of getting a local roofing company to run a replacement will not change during the project. An inexperienced roofing residential company just runs estimates based on the square footage of their client’s roof and the type of roofing materials they choose. What’s the real truth about this?

Reality: Costs Can Change Due to unforeseen Factors

While you should seriously consider the costs of the square footage and roofing materials, there are so many other things that can mess with the overall cost of a roof replacement project. 

Let’s take a look at some of them:

How complex is the roof design (e.g., multiple levels, dormers, skylights)

Your need for additional structural repairs or reinforcement

Removing and clearing the old roofing materials properly

Local roofing company labor costs and fees

The warranty and workmanship guarantees provided by your roofing contractor

The unexpected issues that come up during a roofing project, like the need to replace rotted roof decking or address ventilation issues, can add significant costs to the overall project budget.

Expectation: roof replacement near me won’t affect my daily life.

It’s not uncommon to find that a roof replacement project will not shake you off your daily routine, you can just go on with your life. They assume that the work will just affect the roof of their house and that they’ll be able to go about their normal routines without any major inconveniences.

The reality is that roof replacement happens on top of your house. Even if you’re using the best roofing company Seattle can offer, it will still cause some inconvenience.

Think of the noise from when the roof is being replaced, it will be quite loud. Especially if the roofing company is on the roofing project during normal working or sleeping hours.

The dust and debris from the roofing can create safety hazards if not managed well. It depends on the architecture of your home and the location of the roof access points. So don’t be surprised if entering or exiting certain areas during certain phases of the project gets difficult. You ask this important question.

How do I manage expectations from a roofing company in my area?

You may hear things like, “I got a metal roofing company near me, but I just couldn’t stop spending”. “I can’t trust any roofing company in my area, I end up spending too much!”.

It’s simple, be flexible with your expectations. Have a contingency fund set aside to address any of these unforeseen circumstances. Being flexible and patient throughout the process is key.

You must choose to work with only a professional roofing company. Working with an experienced, reputable roofer who communicates very well and can set a realistic timeline for your project. Look for a reputable roofer near you.