Thinking of getting a new roof, new gutters, or new windows? With the summer season coming in hot (pun intended), you might worry that it’s too late to start outside home repair, however, depending on your needs, now may be a perfect time.
When Should You Replace Your Roof?
How soon you schedule a new roof depends on the issues you’re having with your current one. Planning ahead for a new roof before it becomes an urgent situation is recommended in order to avoid the stress of an unexpected roof replacement. So, if your roof is at least 20 years old, or you notice cracked, curled, or bald spots on your shingles, now is a great time to plan for its replacement. However, if you’ve been repairing your roof repeatedly or experiencing leaks in multiple areas, then you probably already have an urgent need for a new roof and may not be able to wait for a particular time of year. Rest assured, a roof can be replaced easily here in the Southeast, whether it’s in the heat of the summer or the middle of winter.
Fall is one of the more popular times to install a roof. During the fall season, homeowners look forward to a new roof to provide improved insulation during the approaching winter, and protection from the weather. Some roofs must be installed before it gets so cold that the material won’t adhere or dry, but keep in mind that “cold” is defined as below 40 degrees. And it depends upon the type of roof: flat roofs, rubber, and special materials adhere better in the sunny months, but steep slope or angled roofs, like most residential homes, that have asphalt, metal, tile, or slate materials are fine to install in colder months. Here in the South, April to October are the busiest months for many roofers. But with our mild winters, homeowners in the Raleigh area may find that the winter or early spring is the perfect time to get a replacement roof since demand may be lower and wait times shorter.
When Should You Replace Your Gutters?
The most economical time to replace your gutters is when you are installing your new roof. Many roofing companies offer a “package” price when you buy both. But if a new roof is not in your plan, and your gutters are rusted, cracked, or bent, you may need to replace the gutters soon. Gutters serve the important purpose of keeping water runoff from getting under the shingles on the roof, which can rot the precious sheathing underneath; and away from the siding and foundation of your house.
For this reason, damaged gutters should be replaced before the wet season, so you are not sacrificing your homestead by allowing the rain runoff to spill out the sides of the channels. You may be able to replace certain sections of the gutter, but if too much damage exists, you’ll need to install a complete gutter system to protect your home from water damage.
Replacing the Windows In Your Home
Windows serve a much greater purpose than just letting light in your home. Windows can diminish outside noise; provide insulation; decrease ultraviolet rays that can damage your furniture, rugs, and artwork; and can add to the overall energy efficiency of your home.
If your windows are more than 15 years old, replacing them could make a significant difference in the look and feel of your home. If your windows are difficult to open or close, have moisture, let outside air seep in (when closed), or are cracked, it’s time to replace them.
Windows can be installed year-round, as long as it’s not too icy, wet, or humid. The timing on installing really depends on how soon you’d like to reap the benefits from the upgrade.
Have questions about your roofing, gutter, or window needs? We would love the opportunity to walk you through the process and assess your home’s needs with a free estimate!
