Planning On Replacing Your Roof?

If you're planning on replacing your roof, this guide will save you time, stress, and money.

Roof replacements are a big deal—financially and structurally. Whether your roof is leaking, old, or damaged by a storm, here's what you need to know before you sign a contract.

1. Check If You Really Need a Full Replacement

Some roofs can be repaired instead of replaced.

Look for these signs you may need a full replacement:

Shingles are curling, cracking, or missing
Roof is 20+ years old
Leaks in multiple areas
Soft or sagging spots on the roof

Not sure? Ask a professional at Herts Roofing & Construction for an honest roof inspection before you commit.

2. Set a Budget—and Stick to It

Roof replacements vary based on materials, pitch, layers, and square footage.

Get multiple written estimates. Each quote should include:

Labor and materials
Tear-off and disposal costs
Permits
Warranties

And be cautious of any bid that seems too low. It usually means corners are being cut.

3. Choose the Right Material

Asphalt shingles are the most common, but you also have:

Metal (more durable, higher upfront cost)
Wood shake (aesthetic, but high maintenance)
Slate or tile (very durable, but heavy and expensive)

Ask your roofer which is best for your home's structure and New Jersey’s climate.

At Herts Roofing & Construction, we walk you through your options and explain the pros and cons for your specific case.

4. Hire a Licensed and Insured Contractor

It’s non-negotiable. They must have:

State license
Liability insurance
Workers' comp coverage

This protects you if there’s an accident or damage during the job.

Herts Roofing & Construction is fully licensed, insured, and trusted across New Jersey.

5. Know the Timeline

Most roof replacements take 1–3 days. But weather delays, material shortages, and permit holdups can stretch it out.

Before work begins, ask:

When the crew will arrive and finish each day
What happens if it rains mid-project
How your property will be protected during the job

6. Understand the Warranty

You should get two types:

Manufacturer warranty: Covers material defects
Workmanship warranty: Covers errors during installation

Get it all in writing, and make sure it includes what’s covered, for how long, and under what conditions.

7. Ask How They’ll Protect Your Property

Roofing can damage your landscaping, siding, and driveways if not handled carefully.

Ask your contractor:

How they’ll catch nails and debris
How they’ll protect gutters, windows, and shrubs
If they’ll use protective tarps and magnetic nail sweepers

At Herts Roofing, we treat your property like our own. Cleanup is part of the job.

8. Plan for Noise and Access

Roof replacements are noisy. Let neighbors know, keep pets inside, and plan around the disruption.

Also, make sure the crew has access to your driveway or yard. Move vehicles and furniture out of the way before they arrive.

9. Ask About Permit Handling

Your contractor should pull the proper permits for the town or city you’re in. If they ask you to do it, that’s a red flag.

10. Watch Out for Red Flags

Steer clear of any contractor who:

Demands full payment up front
Only accepts cash
Can’t provide a local business address
Won’t give you a written contract

You want the job done right the first time. And you want someone who will still answer your call a year from now.