Best Roofing Buying Guide – Consumer Reports

Layering Twice is Not so Nice If you need a new roof, and two layers of roofing are already in place, building codes require stripping the roofing down to the sheathing. Most homes are strong enough to support two layers of roofing, but installing some of the heavier laminated shingles over even a single layer may overstress rafters and other structural parts of your home. If you are considering doubling up, check the manufacturer's warranty of the new roofing material to make sure it covers that type of usage.

Another important reason to consider complete removal before re-roofing is to have your roofer check for rot, water damage, or insect infestation underneath. Figure on an extra $100 per 100 square feet to strip off and dispose of the old shingles.

Whenever a new roof is installedor if old shingles are being removedyou'll need new underlayment (roofing felt) to create a moisture barrier between the roofing and the wood sheathing and rafters underneath. The sheathing may also have to be replaced if it's damaged.

Estimating Costs Suppliers sell roofing by the square, or 100-square-foot area. To estimate how much roofing you'll need, multiply the overall length and width of each roof section in feet to measure its area and add 10 percent to allow for waste. Then divide by 100 to determine how many squares you'll need. Figure on about 30 squares for a typical 2,300-square-foot house, plus roughly $3,500 to $10,000 for labor. Keep an extra bundle of shingles for minor repairs, like after a heavy storm.

Watch the Warranty A full warranty covers replacement of defective materials, while a materials warranty offers prorated coverage. Most warranties include full reimbursement for materials and installation for a limited timeup to 10 years for asphalt shingles and 50 years for fake slate and steel roofing we've seen. Generally, none of the warranties cover damage from winds above 85 mph. Nor do they cover faulty installation; ask for a separate labor warranty from the installer. Save all receipts and invoices.

First Rate Fire Rating Look for roofing with the highest fire rating, Class A.

The Solar Factor If you're considering going solar and also replacing your roof, it would be best to have them installed at the same time. Ideally, a structural engineer as well as a roofer should assess the roofs condition, including how much weight it can handle. Before installing a rooftop solar system, contact the roofing products manufacturer for written approval of the solar installation to ensure the roofing warranty will not be voided. Also, the fire classifications for the roof assembly and the solar system should be the same.

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Best Roofing Buying Guide - Consumer Reports