Today the workers got started on the new roof. I asked the foreman about the wood that was rotting underneath the old layers of roofing. I wanted it replaced. He told me that it would cost much more to do the wood, as well. This is an older home, and I didn't see any point in putting a beautiful new roof onto decayed, rotting wood with peeling paint.
He told me that many people can't afford to replace what's underneath, so they just redo the top layer. To me that doesn't make any sense. After a few phone calls, I had a new estimate. It is so important to get a written estimate before having any work done. (especially if you are a woman.)
It is going to cost double what it would have, but it will look fabulous! It already feels so much better to have the cracked, chipped, and termite ridden pieces gone. It's starting to look like a new cottage! I am so excited. Thank goodness I listened to Suze Orman and made sure that I had an eight month emergency fund. Otherwise, this would have been unreachable. How is your roof? How old is it?
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Wow, you are going to have an entire new roof, from the rafters up, it sounds like! How wonderful and what a blessing that you are able to afford to do so! My roof is not quite 30 years old, but, I guess it is getting close to the time to have it checked!
ReplyDeleteYes I am, Bless. It looks so much better already. If this one lasts as long as the last one, it will be there when I turn ninety!
DeleteWell, if you can afford it, you should certainly do it!
ReplyDeleteFortunately, I can, emw. Now it's time to rebuild the emergency fund.
DeleteIt is good you used your common sense. I never heard of not replacing the rotted boards! We were in our first house almost 40years and replaced the roof twice in that time. Never had any rotted wood. Our first roof was done by a company referred by someone (to us) as charging a good (meaning low) price. We weren't impressed by the workmanship. So the next time, we hired a popular, reputable company that was more expensive, but the workmanship was great. When we got the first roof, we were young, fresh out of college, and on a tight budget. So sometimes you just get what you can afford at the time. Andrea
ReplyDeleteThat's true, Andrea. I think some of this wood was from the 1920's. This house used to be about half the size that it is now. It just had a kitchen, wood stove, and water closet.
DeleteIt's always a good idea to get a written estimate, (male or female actually.) We work in the trades and know of folks/businesses that prey on those who have nothing in writing. Sad but true. It's good you have that knowledge (you're good that way 😊) and can make confident informed decisions. There are many who don't take the time or don't hassle with an estimate and end up paying for it.
ReplyDeleteHi Lady Locust, That's true. I like the order and organization of a written estimate, as well.
DeleteIt's great that you have the funds there to repair your roof and to get the work done properly, Stephanie. With the estimate you'll know what it's going to cost you and you won't get a shock when that bill arrives. I think it's really important to have an emergency fund to cover work like this as home repairs are often a big expense. Meg:)
ReplyDeleteI agree, Meg. I had been planning for the roof for the past year. Part of it blew up and rolled back in our last wind storm. We've had sunny days for the workers, than goodness.
DeleteMuch better to have it all done, if you can possibly afford it. It will be great when it's done.
ReplyDeletexx
It will, Joy. It's making the cottage look like a new house! I love the effect. The pine is very beautiful.
DeleteYou are wise to have an emergency fund.
ReplyDeleteDo you have to move out during the work? I’ve seen neighbors have their roofs done in one day, but I think it’s only replacing shingles.
Hi Nil, No, I have stayed here. The only part that was open was the porch area. They have a crew, so they work quickly together.
DeleteWell done, it doesn't make any sense at all to not renew the old rotten wood.
ReplyDeleteNo, it doesn't, mamasmercantile. Next step is to paint over the primer.
DeleteOuch! But you are so smart to have set aside a fund for just such an event. It will be wonderful to know that your roof and the wood supports are now in excellent condition. Getting estimates and reviewing business licenses and insurance status is always time well spent.
ReplyDeleteIt sure is, Anita. The older I get, the more important I realize that these things are.
DeleteOuch, what a shock! But it will be pointless doing half a job and storing up a problem for the future, I think. We are lucky, new house new roof which is covered by the 10 year house builder's warranty. It should last us for a lifetime now. Hope the work is well under way now. Good luck! Angie x
ReplyDeleteThat's great, PP. They are completing mine today. I hope yours lasts for the rest of your life.
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