One of the most overwhelming of all home renovations is the roof remodel. This particular construction job can be difficult, time-consuming and quite costly for most homeowners. However, the benefits greatly outweigh the concerns.
When does your roof need a renovation, how to prepare and what do plan ahead, read our complete guide to a roof structure remodel.
When Does Your Roof Need Renovation?
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The roof is the main construction that protects your home from the elements. That is why it is important to conduct frequent checks and maintenance to make sure its in perfect condition.
Frequent and small repairs can save your roof from a complete roof renovation.
At the same time if you find some of the following problems, it is well to consider a whole renovation:
- Frequent or widespread leaks – a single leak is not that big of a problem, but if this persists over time and gets worse, than it is time for a new roof.
- Sagging, uneven roofline – an uneven roofline indicates structural issues, water damage and other major problems. This may result in the need of urgent repair.
- Damaged or missing shingles – this indicates a prolonged period of wear and tear, signalling that you have to change the roof.
- Rising energy bills – bigger energy consumption is a sure indicator that there’s something wrong with your roof insulation.
- Mould, stains, rot on the inside – water damage is easily visible inside the home. If it is persistent, then it’s time to change the roof.
One other key indicator for the overall structural integrity of your roof is age related damage. Depending on the type of material that the shingles are made of, this will give the roof an overall lifespan of around 20 to 40 more years.
Popular Roof Designs in Ireland to Consider
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Around Ireland you will find diverse options for the design of your roof. Make sure you choose the design that complements well the overall design of the home.
The main design specifics for roof in Ireland include good drainage and wind resistance, compliance with planning regulations, compliance with energy standards and aesthetic consistency, additional insulation.
Here we have gathered the most frequently used roof designs in Ireland.
Gable Roof
A gable roof is the most common in Ireland in pitched roofs, especially in rural and suburban areas. It consists of two sloping sides that meet at a ridge, forming a triangle at each side.
The advantages of this type of roof include excellent water drainage, simple and timeless design, cost-effectiveness.
This is the preferred choice for traditional homes and cottages.
Hipped Roof
This design is also popular. There are slopes on all four sides of the roof, that reach a ridge or point.
The main advantage of this is the overall stability of the roof. It is ideal for Ireland’s coastal and exposed areas where extreme weather events are normal.
The drawback is that this type of roof is more expensive.
Mansard Roof
This roof design is getting more popular in recent years, especially in urban areas. The design is double pitched with a flat top, creating additional living space. This is ideal for attic conversions or dormer rooms.
By choosing this style, homeowners will gain more attic space in city homes and townhouses.
Preparing for the Roof Remodel
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Planning a roof remodel can be hard, but there are several steps in the renovation process that are important to the overall success of the project.
Here we have outlined the main aspects of planning.
Inspect the Roof and Plan the Remodelling
Assessing the roof’s condition is the first thing you need to do. Check for leaks, missing shingles and sagging to gain an overall impression on how much work the roof needs.
If you don’t know what to look at, hire a professional construction service to do the assessment of the entire roof.
Check if Planning Permission Is Required
Depending on where you live in Ireland, there may be a planning permission required by building authorities for doing roof remodels.
Check with your local authorities during the planning phase, especially if you live in a rural or historic area of Ireland, to decrease the risk of any surprises.
Choose an Efficient Roof Material
The most ideal material for your roof building project is the one that checks out all the boxes construction and design wise.
Consider the following key aspects:
- Weather resistance;
- Lifespan;
- Aesthetics;
- Energy efficiency.
Most popular roof options in Ireland include durable materials such as natural slate, fibre cement slates, clay or concrete tiles.
Develop a Timeline for DIY Work or Hiring a Professional
When you choose the preferred material for your roof, it is crucial to plan a timeline for the roof work.
If you plan on doing this as a DIY project, then add more time to your estimate, because there’s a lot that can come up around the renovation project.
If you want, you can hire a professional construction service. They will give you an estimate of the renovation work and how much time the remodel will take.
Set Up Your Home for Roof Work
Roof remodel can severely impact life in your home. Plan ahead and decide if you’re going to stay in the home while you renovate the roof, sometimes living elsewhere is the well options.
Plan also that removing the old roof will result in a period of time when the rooms of the home will be exposed to the environment. Make sure you cover furniture to avoid water and construction debris.
Key Elements Which May Need an Upgrade
Sometimes, your roof doesn’t need a total renovation. Depending on the severity of the problem, you may be required to do upgrades individually.
Here we have gathered the key elements that may need an upgrade.
Roof Decking
The roof decking is the roof foundation layer beneath the roofing materials. It’s attached to the structural frame of the roof and provides the surface.
The roof decking is crucial in any remodel because it supports the roofing materials, adds strength and provides a good base for waterproofing layers.
Check for any sagging or misalignment of the roof decking. If you notice any water stains, rot or mould, then you have to change it.
Underlayment
Roof underlayment is the protective layer installed between the roof decking and the final roofing material. It acts as a secondary barrier against water, wind, and weather damage — especially important in climates like Ireland’s, where rain and moisture are common.
The main purpose is waterproofing and weather protection.
Leaks and sagging can point if your underlayment needs to be changed.
Shingles
Shingles are the roofing material that goes on the top-most layer of your roof. They protect the whole construction from the weather.
If your shingles are broken or missing, then they need replacing.
Leak Barrier
The leak barrier is another important layer of your roof. It acts as a secondary waterproof seal under the main materials. It seals around nails and construction fasteners.
Make sure to check if the leak barrier is properly fastened to prevent leaks. If there’s water damage, change it.
Chimney
The chimney is the last, but also crucial point to check. Make sure the structural integrity of the chimney is intact, no bricks and stonework are missing.
Look out for cracks in the mortar or bricks. If you find those, maybe it is time for a new chimney.
Best Time to Carry Out a Roof Renovation
The well time to carry out a roof installation is during the driest and warm months of the year. Rain and moisture can impact the overall structure of the roof. They can also lead to damage in new materials.
The summer months are the well time to carry out the renovation because the weather will be of little disruption to your everyday life, if you decide to stay in your home during the renovation.
How Much Does a Roof Remodel Cost in Ireland?
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The cost of the roof remodel depends on several factors such as size of the roof, materials, structure and design.
For a full replacement of the roof, the average prices range between 8000 and 16 000 euro.
Depending on the materials, the price can increase, of course. Other things that influence the cost are the scaffolding, depending on the access, insulation upgrades, ventilation systems and how much people are going to work on the roof.
Tips on Maintaining Your Roof After the Renovation
After the renovation of your roof is finished, you have to make sure you maintain the new construction. This way you will prolong the lifespan of the roof.
You can maintain your roof by:
- Conducting regular checks on the new construction.
- Eliminate minor damage immediately.
- Hire a professional for bigger maintenance jobs.
- Frequently clean the roof and gutters to avoid water damage and mould.
- Frequently clean the chimney.
- Make sure there are no leaks.
Depending on the type of roof you have, these simple steps can influence the overall quality and lifespan of your renovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main problems leading to a roof remodel?
The main problems are frequent leaks, mould, moisture damage, high energy bills, poor insulation and structural changes to roof line.
How much does a full roof remodel cost?
A full remodel costs between 8000 and 16 000 euro.
Can I do a roof remodel myself?
While roof remodel is a challenging DIY job, the well and longterm results are achieved by professionals.
