I have been doing new roofing, siding, window and other home remodeling projects for over 35 years for County Roofing on Long Island and New York City, Over the years I have developed some useful advice to help prospective customers get their project done effectively and efficiently.
Nothing can transform the look and feel of the exterior of your home more than a beautiful new roofing, siding, windows or other exterior remodeling project. Today’s manufactured materials are so technologically advanced and designed to provide efficiency and beauty to your home for many years. A new remodeling project can be very exciting and rewarding, but can also be challenging. Here is some wisdom collected over the years to help make the process go well:
Set your budget: Before you start any home remodeling project, it’s important to set a budget. This will help you determine what you can afford and what you can’t. Obtain and consider the expenses that will come with the project, such as materials, labor, and any other potential unforeseen expenses. Working with a local experienced and trusted contractor who provides a free consultation and a detailed written estimate for the project, with financing options will help you set a budget best for you.
Determine your priorities: Before you start setting a budget, it’s important to determine the priorities for your home. Consider what is most important and pressing to you, such as functionality, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. This will help you allocate your budget accordingly.
Condition of your home’s exterior: The condition of your home’s exterior is a key factor in determining which project to prioritize. If your roof is leaking or your siding is damaged, these issues should be addressed before replacing your windows. Work with an experienced home remodeler who is willing to offer a free consultation and estimate for any proposed work needed.
While roofing, siding, and window replacement can all improve the energy efficiency and appearance of your home, the cost of doing them all at once can be expensive. County Roofing offers flexible financing options which can make such a project more affordable. Applying for a home remodeling loan will allow you to get an idea of how much you can borrow and what the repayment terms would be so you can determine how much you can afford to spend and allocate to your budget accordingly.
For example: If you are primarily concerned with improving energy efficiency, window replacement may be the best option. If you want to improve the appearance of your home, siding replacement may be the best choice. If however your roof is in poor condition, roofing replacement may be the most important project to tackle.
Age of your home: The age of your home can also be a factor in determining which project to prioritize. If your home is older and has outdated windows, replacing them may provide significant energy savings. If your home has old and worn siding, replacing it will dramatically improve its appearance and increase its value. If your roof is approaching the end of its lifespan, a roof replacement may be the most necessary to prevent damaging leaks. With New York and Long Island’s harsh winters or frequent storms, roofing replacement may be the higher priority to prevent leaks and damage. Having a reliable roofing specialist who can assess your roof’s condition and advise on its remaining roof service life will help you make an educated decision.
Many times we will be called for a consultation for one project, but as part of our evaluation, offer an assessment on the whole exterior envelope of a home, which can offer insight into priorities for your home. Function and protection always trump aesthetics. The good news is that a newly designed and expertly installed roof system transforms the curb appeal of any home substantially.
Set your Goals: Ultimately, the best project for your home depends on your specific needs and goals. Consult with a professional contractor or home improvement specialist to help determine which project to prioritize and to get an estimate of the cost and timeline for each project. At County Roofing we offer a free comprehensive consultation for all of your exterior home improvement needs.
Consider unexpected expenses: It’s important to budget for unexpected expenses, such as unforeseen repairs or changes to the project. A good rule of thumb is to budget an additional 10-20% of the total cost for unexpected expenses. A knowledgeable contractor will be able to go over the potential additional expenses any project may entail. For example, most roof systems are installed on decking or plywood. Sometimes certain pieces near any long term infiltration will become warped or rotted. These materials need to be removed and replaced at an additional cost, based on how much material is needed.
Determine your financing options: Consider your financing options, such as personal loans, home equity loans, home improvement loans or credit cards. Determine how much you can afford to borrow and factor in the interest and fees associated with each option. We have partnered with reliable third-party lenders who focus on home remodeling loans, who will provide a decision on financing over a short phone call.
Planning ahead: Planning is crucial when starting a new home remodeling project.
It is important to define your goals before you start your project. Research online and gather inspiration for your project. Look at home design websites, social media platforms, and magazines to get ideas for your space. We offer free consultations, where we provide options for exterior remodeling and replacement projects, materials and ideas for designing and building your project the way you want it.
Hire the right professional contractor: Do your research and choose professionals with a good reputation and experience. Check online reviews. Choosing the right home remodeling contractor is crucial to the success of your project. Your contractor will be responsible for ensuring that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to your satisfaction. With so many contractors to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start.
Do your research: Before you start looking for a contractor, do your research. Ask friends and family members for recommendations, check online reviews and ratings, and look for contractors who have been in business for several years.
Once you have a list of potential contractors, check their credentials. Make sure they are experienced, licensed, and insured. Ask for proof of insurance
Check references: Ask the contractor for references from past clients. Contact these clients and ask about their experience working with the contractor. Ask if they were satisfied with the work, if the project was completed on time and within budget, and if they would hire the contractor again.
Get multiple bids: Contact several contractors and get bids for your project. Compare the bids and make sure you understand what is included in each bid. Make sure each contractor is bidding on the same scope of work.
Ask questions: When meeting with contractors, ask questions about their experience, their process, and their timeline. Make sure you understand their approach to the project and that you feel comfortable working with them.
Communication: Communication is key to a successful project. Choose a contractor who communicates well and is responsive to your questions and concerns.
Get everything in writing: Once you have chosen a contractor, make sure you get everything in writing. This should include the scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, and any other important details.
Trust your instincts: Finally, trust your instincts. Choose a contractor who you feel comfortable with and who you trust to do the job right.
Create a timeline: Creating a timeline for your project will help you stay on track and ensure that your project is completed on time. Work with your contractor or designer to create a realistic timeline that takes into account the scope of the project and any unforeseen delays.
