Renovating the roof

Renovating the roof is a big decision

Renovating the roof can involve many different operations. It could be total renovation and therefore involve laying a completely new roof. It could also involve replacing the roof covering, the insulation or even fitting an underlay. Each operation can be done separately, meaning that no two renovations will ever cost the same. 

Three scenarios generally lead to the decision to renovate the roof. The first is when a leak occurs and the roof is no longer watertight — then you have to act fast. The second is when renovating an existing building or when you want to make interior changes (roof space, insulation etc.). 

This large-scale work is best done by professionals. Their expertise is essential for this type of work and offers you significant guarantees. 

A well-maintained roof in good condition adds value to your home. It offers better insulation, allowing you to save energy and protect the environment. By checking it regularly, you can act in advance rather than face a complete emergency repair. 

The cost of renovating a roof

Of course, renovating a roof comes with a cost. The first step is to diagnose the issues and determine the work required. On average, the cost of renovating a roof varies from 50 to 400 euro per square metre. These prices are purely indicative and depend not only on the scale of the work, but also on the materials chosen for the renovation and the tradesmen used. Tiles, slates, roofing thatch and zinc all vary in price.  

Other factors also affect the cost of renovating a roof, such as its current condition, the geographical location, how long you want it to last and how well you want the insulation to perform. 

Remember that grants and subsidies such as the zero-rate eco-loan are available for roof renovations, which can bring down the costs significantly. Again, trust the professionals to help you decide. 

You can also consult the local urban development plan (France only) to ensure that the project meets current regulations and that no specific authorisation is required.

Fitting an underlay for good insulation

If you decide to renovate your roof, think about fitting an underlay. This ensures that the building is both watertight and well insulated, as it forms a protective layer between the roof covering and the insulation. Old buildings do not generally have these.  

The underlay is waterproof and windproof, which not only promotes thermal insulation, but is also vapour permeable, helping to avoid the damp that can appear in insulation. It means that the humidity generated within the house can escape. 

Depending on the material chosen, the approximate cost of having an underlay fitted is between 10 and 18 euro per square metre, plus labour. You can choose from four types of underlay: flexible, semi-rigid sheet, rigid fibre-cement sheet and rigid wood fibre sheet.  

Renovating to protect both your property and the environment

Investing in your roof and its renovation allows you to protect your property. A well-maintained property is a more valuable property. The law allows you to transfer the ten-year guarantee on your roof to your buyers if you move, showing them that it is a sound property. 

It has also been proven that 30% of heat is lost through the roof, so renovating it could result in significant energy savings. It's good for you and the environment. When choosing materials, check what's generally used in the local area. These materials are generally the best suited to the weather conditions there.  

Also remember that a watertight roof significantly reduces the risk of leaks, which would result in work needing to be done to the house itself. 

This important investment will provide peace of mind and avoid significant expense in the long run.