Churches create special places in the community where we can worship and come together. But like our homes, churches need care and maintenance too, and one of these maintenance tasks include replacing the roof of the church when it gets too old.
At RST Roofing and Renovations, we have experience working on church roofs, and are ready to explain everything you need to know about the church roof replacement process in this complete guide.
Signs Your Church Roof Needs Replacement
Before you even get started with a replacement, you should know the signs that indicate you need one in the first place.
Leaks
If water stains begin to appear on the walls or ceiling of the church, you should be wary. The problem may be fixed if there are only a few, but if the spots are large, or there are many, then you need to take action as soon as possible. These spots are indicating that leaks are making their way through to the underlying layers of the roofing system and causing bigger problems.
Missing Shingles
Missing shingles can mean a lot of things, especially if there was a sudden storm. This makes it important to get regular inspections to determine what’s causing shingles to go missing and repair them as soon as possible. If large sections of shingles are missing, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire roof. Without shingles, the underlying layers of the roof are exposed to external elements like rain, snow, dust, and debris, leading to the deterioration of those underlying materials.
Curling Shingle
Curling shingles are a problem both functionally and aesthetically. Typically, shingles should lie flat on your church roof. If only a few shingles are curling then they can be fixed. But, if the problem is in a large portion of your roof then this is a clear sign that your church roof needs a replacement. This may be due to the roof needing a better ventilation system which can be corrected during the replacement.
Sagging
A sagging church roof is a serious issue and is a clear sign that replacement is required. You can determine this by looking at the exterior of the building and checking for areas where the roofline dips.
Age
Depending on the material that your roof is made out of, its lifespan may be shorter or longer than the typical church roof. For example, asphalt shingles last around 15-20 years while metal roofs can last for up to 50. Determine the age of your roofing materials by having a professional inspection.
What Are The Steps Involved in Replacing a Church Roof?
Replacing a church roof is a large job that needs proper skills and experience. Here is what you can expect from the replacement process if you hire a professional roofer:
- The very first step is an inspection. A professional contractor will look at your roof and check for damage. This will help identify any existing problem and damage that might need to be repaired prior to the replacement. With this step, you’ll learn everything you need to know about your roof in order to make the right choice.
- You’ll have to select a new roofing material for the church. Make sure that it’s a quality material, which may cost more, but will last you longer than low-quality materials.
- You should also apply for a permit. Depending on the county and your municipal rules, you may need a permit in order to replace the structural elements of the church. This includes replacing the decking, rafters, trusses, or studs.
- Once you get the permit, the old roofing materials can be torn off. This is a very important step for a faultless installation as removing the old roof lets the roofer check for any hidden problems.
- After removing the existing roof, the roofer will check for problems in the underlying structure of the church roof and fix those problems.
- Once the underlying problems are fixed, the new roofing system can be installed. Professionals will install the roof carefully with special attention given to edges, valleys, and penetrations. They’ll also use appropriate fasteners and adhesives depending on the type of material.
- After installing the roof, the roofers will clean up any debris left over and check gutters and downspouts for blockages. The rest of the roof will also be inspected at this time to make sure that everything is up to standard.
If you are in Georgia, then we are here to assist you. Call us at (404) 548-8901 to know more!
How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Church Roof?
The average cost of a church roof replacement can range between $30,000 to $100,000. The span is so wide because it depends on multiple factors, so to get a more exact cost, contact a professional for a quote.
- The size and square footage of the church roof will be a main factor in the cost as smaller roofs will need less materials and labor compared to larger roofs.
- Some roofing materials cost more than others. For example, asphalt shingles will cost less compared to metal roofs . The quality of the material will also impact the cost as lower-quality materials will appear cheaper.
- Labor rates fluctuate across the country and change state by state. In Georgia, labor costs are generally between $150 and $400 per sq. ft.
- If your roof replacement requires a permit, this can also add to the cost.
Click here to get a free instant church roof replacement quote.
Choosing the Best Roofing Material for Your Church
There are various materials available for a church roof. Choosing the right material matters, so choose wisely based on your requirements and budget. Here are some options that you can consider:
| Asphalt Shingles | Metal Roofs | Tile Roofs | Synthetic Materials |
| These are the most common. They’re affordable and come in many colors, lasting around 15-25 years. | Metal roofs can handle Georgia’s hot summer heat well and last around 50 years or more. | The most expensive roofing option, but can last as long as 100 years or more. | These materials mimic the look of slate or wood shake, but cost less. They last about 50 years. |
Financing Your Church Roof Replacement
One of the ways to finance a church’s roof replacement is to have a pre-established church roof replacement fund. Here are certain sources that help add to this fund:
1. Special collections: Ask church members to make charitable donations to the church on behalf of maintenance.
2. Fundraisers: Have events like bake sales or concerts to raise money.
3. Grants: Some groups give money to help churches with big repairs.
4. Loans: Banks sometimes give loans to churches for big projects.
It’s a good idea to establish a fund like this prior to needing a new roof, hat way, money can be saved over time and you’ll be ready when a new roof is needed.
If you choose RST Roofing and Renovations, we can assist you with finding financing for your new roof. We partner with Service Finance Company to help provide you with suitable payment options that don’t break the bank. Click here to learn more.
Call RST Roofing and Renovations For A Roof Replacement In Atlanta, Georgia.
If you are looking for a roof replacement in Atlanta or the nearby areas of Georgia, we are here to assist you! At RST Roofing and Renovations, we have an entire team of skilled roofing professionals who will make sure your new roof is installed perfectly and be built to last.
Our experts only use the best materials and follow industry-leading practices to ensure your roof protects your home for years to come. For more information, feel free to call us at (404) 548-8901.
