What info to ask for on new roof?

Hello all,

I don't know much about roofs, but my duplex neighbor needs a new one and has asked if I want my side done too. I have two roofs on my side (from damage before I moved in), and a contractor friend has said my roof could last another 3-4 years.

Here are my questions:
1. If I have the money, is it worth me getting a roof when I don't quite need it yet?
2. How does one decide whether to get 25 yr, 30 yr, 3-tab or architechtural shingles? Is there a certain price break that makes one more cost-effective?
3. Does it matter whether they use OSB or plywood? (We're talking about 1/2" plywood).
4. In terms of what gets specified in the bid, I know I should have plywood, shingles, drip edge, ridge vent and flashing for the chimney. Have I forgotten anything?

Thanks,
beth

 

Whats wrong with the plywood under the existing roof? Is it rotten? If not don't replace it. The decision of type of composition shingle is aesthetic and durability. For obvious reasons the cheaper shingles have a shorter life, typically no more than 20 years. How long do you plan to own the unit? That should factor into your decision on material. Choose your poison.

How long has it been since your roof was replaced? If close to 20 years and an expert told you it might last another 3-4 years, replace it. You do not want to wait until it leaks to replace it.

In addition to the materials you mentioned your old roof will need to be torn off (more than 2 layers) and roofing felt and flashing as necessary laid out before applying shingles.

 

I bought the house 5 years ago and the second roof was already on it. I bought from a couple that were only in the house for 2 years and they didn't do the roof, so it's at least 7-8 years old. The house was built in 1976 and I have no idea how long the second roof has been there.

There seem to be 3 reasons for replacing the plywood:
1. Previous owner stuffed fiberglass insulation all across eaves, covering soffitt, so there was little air circulation in attic & I'm told the roof "baked" and I need to replace the wood along the eaves on front and back. (I've had the insulation removed...)
2. There's a section in the middle of the back that shows water damage; I'm guessing it's the reason a second roof was put on.
3. It was suggested that I upgrade from 3/8 to 1/2" plywood. Since it sounded like I already needed to replace everything along the edges and there's damage in the middle, why not replace it all? As I've watched chimney sweeps and other "sink" as they walk across the roof, it seems like a thicker plywood might be a good idea, but maybe I'm just being taken for a ride...

thanks...