Roof and Siding Replacement Together: Is It Worth It?
Your roof is beginning to show curled shingles near the ridge. You are also noticing cracks on the same side of your siding and the color fading. At this stage, you cannot ignore either component anymore and you have to make a choice of replacing both at the same time.
While it may make sense in some cases to replace roof and siding together, in others it is a mistake. Find out how to determine whether combining the roof replacement and the siding replacement works, how long this process will take and how much it will cost in New Jersey.
What Do Roofing and Siding Replacement Together Imply?
To replace the roof and siding together implies planning of these projects simultaneously. It typically involves roofing tear off and installation of a new roof, as well as siding tear off and siding installation.
This process will also involve coordination of contractors and delivery of the materials and inspection of the elements that interact with both systems (trim, gutters and so on).
Advantages of Replacing Roof and Siding Together
Combining the projects has practical advantages although the final result will depend on each particular situation:
- Better Planning and Scheduling
As part of a single project it implies fewer logistics.
- Unified Design
In addition to choosing roofing and siding color combination and style you can unify other components, such as trim.
- Saving in Some Cases on Logistics of the Project
Even though there will be no direct financial saving in many situations, combining planning of the project might help to save money in some aspects.
- Checking Condition of Other Related Elements of the Structure
If roof edges and walls become accessible as part of the process, related elements (flashing, trim and so on) can be inspected more easily.
- Improved Long-Term Planning of Maintenance Activities
Combining replacement of aging components into one period may facilitate long-term planning of maintenance.
Any Downsides of Roofing and Siding Replacements Together?
Of course there are some disadvantages although replacing both systems at the same time does not imply automatic benefit:
Increased Initial Cost
- Additional Construction Activity at the Same Time
- Greater Need for Coordination of Contractors
- Possible Delays Due to Material Availability
- Component May Still Last Several Years More
If your roof is still intact while your siding begins to deteriorate, you can choose another option – to stage the activities.
How Should You Sequence Roofing and Siding Replacements? Which Should Go First?
It should be agreed in advance. Structural issues or active leakage imply immediate response regardless of the component.
At roof edges there are also interactions with other components (gutters, trim and flashings). So, the installation order must be agreed before the start. You can include this information in your written contract as well – it will be helpful in protecting newly installed elements from damages.
What Indications Should You Look for Before Considering Replacement of Both Systems?
Indicators for Roofing System:
- Lost, cracked and deteriorated shingles
- Leakages
- Visible damages after storms
- Wide-scale deterioration of materials
- End of lifespan of any elements
Indicators for Siding Replacement:
- Cracked, warped, deteriorated, loose or peeling siding boards
- Moisture penetration
- Detrimental effects of environment
- Deterioration around joints or trim
However, one indicator does not mean that you definitely need to replace the system. Professional inspection can help to find out whether repair is more appropriate.
Selecting Compatible and Appropriate Materials
Matching materials and correct installation are very important. There are several materials for roofing, such as shingles (asphalt) and metal.
Common materials for sidings include vinyl, fiber cement and engineered wood. There is no such thing as universal material that works equally well for every homeowner, so you need to find the balance between several characteristics.
Coordinate colors and style of your home architecture as well as durability, ease of maintenance and suitability for local climate.
Find out if manufacturer requires anything special when installing materials and how will you combine flashing, water and moisture management for roofing and siding.
Duration: How Long Will Combination of Projects Take?
There is no universal figure. Timing will depend on many factors, such as:
- Home Size and Roof Complexity
- Complexity and Type of Siding
- Weather Conditions
- Availability of Materials
- Condition of Roof and Siding
- Schedule of Contractors and Labor Availability
Bigger homes, roofs with complicated lines (dormers, valleys and chimneys) will take more time.
However, if everything is coordinated it may reduce time gaps between the two phases of the project although you can’t be guaranteed in this.
Ask your roofing contractor to provide written schedule.
