Get matched with top roofers in Rochester, MI

Cool roofs last for roughly 15 to 30 years. You can install a cool roof coating over an existing roof, but keep in mind that this might not be worth it if your roof is near the end of its life expectancy. If your roof isn’t near the end of its life, adding a cool roof coating can make your existing roof more energy-efficient and help it last longer, so you’ll have to weigh the pros and cons.

Whether or not the terms of your roofing estimate are negotiable depends on the contractor. Some professional roofers will be willing to budge on labor fees to some extent, while others will simply walk away from the potential work rather than lower their fees. In most cases, it’s best not to negotiate the terms, as lower labor charges could lead to your contractor cutting corners. Material costs aren’t negotiable, but you could purchase them yourself to try to save on delivery fees and markups.

It’s always a good idea to have a lawyer review any legally binding contract before signing, including roofing contracts. Most contracts have straightforward language that’s easy to understand, but getting advice from an attorney before signing could save you from being locked into a contract you don’t want to move forward with. Having a lawyer review your contract can also help protect you if your roofing professional defaults on their side of the agreement.

The material and frequency of maintenance are the biggest factors for determining the longevity of your shingles, not the color. For instance, luxury asphalt shingles can last 30 years or even longer, while slate tiles have an impressive lifespan ranging from 75 to 100 years. That said, lighter-colored shingles can help reduce your energy costs in the summertime.