Do I Need a Permit for Roof Replacement? 4 Common Roof Replacement Questions

Your roof's state has caught your attention and you're debating if it's time for a replacement. Likely, you're left with many questions. This blog brings together all common questions related to roof replacement and guides you through the process.

Do I Need a Permit for Roof Replacement? 

If a roof replacement is on your agenda, the first thing you might wonder about is the permit. In Colorado, having a permit for roof replacement is a prerequisite. Though the process might seem tedious, these permits are designed to safeguard everyone's safety.

Do note, the permitting regulations vary between counties and cities. While a permit for replacing a roof is generally needed across Colorado, situations differ when it comes to roof repairs. The necessity for permits in such cases usually depends on the repair's size and complication. In most cases, any repair less than 100-200 sqft or less than 10% of the roof size a permit is not needed.  Any roof repair over these amounts will trigger the need for a permit and/or necessitate a full roof replacement.

Helpful resource: https://library.municode.com/co

­­How Do I Find the Right Contractor?

Choosing a contractor is an important decision. Our goal is to guide every homeowner in Colorado towards reliable, proficient, and licensed roofing contractors. Here are some considerations that can help you assess potential contractors:

Workmanship Warranty: Confirm if they offer a warranty on their work. It can act as additional insurance.
Certifications: Check if they have certification from shingle manufacturers, which is a sign of trustworthiness.
Business Information: Get to know about their business history - their functioning duration, past project locations, and more.
References: Ask for references from their recent past, preferably from the last 3-6 months.

How Often Should a Roof be Replaced?

This question doesn't have a straightforward answer. A roof's lifespan depends on factors like weather conditions, maintenance, and more. However, most licensed roofers estimate a roof's lifespan to be between 15 and 30 years. Most manufacturers offer warranties for 30 to 50 years.

The best way to determine if you need a roof replacement is through regular, professional inspections. In Colorado, the norm is to conduct inspections twice a year - in spring and fall.

What’s Included in a Roof Replacement?

A roof replacement consists of several components. Mainly, these are:

• Roof Decking: Wooden boards that makeup your roof's frame.
• Underlayment: An added layer of protection over your roof decking.
• Ice and Water Shields: Waterproof shields that assist with water flow.
• Roof Flashing: Metal pieces that align with walls and chimneys.
• Drip edge: Directs water away from the home.
• Roof Vents: These ensure proper ventilation.
• Pipe Boots: Rubber boots that prevent water leaks into your house.
• Asphalt Shingles: The most visible part of your roof.
• Ridge Capping: Trim installed on the roof's peaks.

Asking the question, "Do I need a permit for roof replacement?", is a great first step towards a successful replacement journey. The Colorado Roofing Association is here to help you make an informed choice about repairing and replacing your roofs. Keep asking the right questions, and rest assured, you're going to have a long-lasting, dependable roof over your head.