5 Asphalt Shingle Roofing Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Pro

A damaged or worn-out roof doesn’t just affect your home’s looks; it also puts you at risk of leaks, mold, water damage, and other costly issues. So, if your shingles have seen better days, you’ll want to contact a roofing professional to talk about replacing them or installing a new roof. But before you do, it helps to understand the types of questions a contractor will ask during your initial meeting. Here are some of the most common roof replacement questions to expect from a pro.

What’s the Current Condition of Your Roof?

When hiring a roofer, one of the first things you’ll discuss is the current condition of your roof—a major factor in determining the scope of your project. 

As you might expect, installing an entirely new roof will take longer (and cost more) than a partial roof replacement. This is due to several factors, including the additional costs of materials, disposal, and labor.

What Type of Asphalt Shingles Do You Want? 

You’ve already decided to get asphalt shingles, but do you know which type you’d like? If not, your contractor can walk you through the different kinds of asphalt shingles and help you choose the best option for your budget and aesthetic preferences.

What’s the Approximate Height and Pitch of Your Roof?

Your contractor may also ask about the height and pitch of your roof, which can also impact the project price and timeline. Installing or replacing a roof on taller homes often requires more labor, resulting in increased costs. Similarly, steeper roof slopes require more materials than lower-pitched roofs, which also bumps up costs.

When Do You Need This Work Done?

Once the work begins, the time it takes to replace a roof is generally between one and three days. However, getting a roofing crew to your home may take longer during fall and spring, which are typically the busiest times for roof replacements. Due to the higher demand, these seasons also tend to be the most expensive times to install or replace your roof.

The urgency of your project can also affect your costs. If you need an emergency roof replacement (for example, if your roof was damaged during severe weather), you can expect to pay more than you would for a regular installation or replacement.

What Is Your Budget?

Even when you choose asphalt (one of the more affordable roofing materials), a new roof is still a significant investment. On average, installing an asphalt shingle roof costs between $5,800 and $20,000. Your overall cost will vary depending on multiple factors, including the roof size, local labor rates, and permit costs.

Keep in mind: If a storm or natural disaster caused your roof damage, your homeowners insurance may pay for a roof replacement. It’s worth confirming this with your insurance company ahead of time because this can have a major impact on your budget.