A lot of people do not think about their roof very much, but when it has a problem, it is usually a big problem. The majority of homeowners don’t know much about roofing, and the prospect of getting your roof repaired can be daunting. Keep reading to educate yourself more on how you should care for your roof.
Don’t procrastinate on replacing shingles. You might be tempted to put off a repair, but that can actually make the situation worse. Replacing or repairing shingles immediately saves you both time and energy in the future. Prevention is key.
Leaks come from having damaged shingles, but you should also inspect your roof’s foundation. Water can leak into your home through dry-rotted siding. Just checking the roof is not enough. Consider all the other possible places that water can get in so that you end the problem completely.
Don’t try to fix your roof during wet weather. If you’re working on a wet roof, you’re putting yourself at risk of injury or death. If you’re doing roof work yourself, make sure to do it during dry and sunny days.
As you narrow down the field of possible roofing contractors to hire, make sure that you learn about each one’s warranty offers. The warranty should last at least three years. The longer it lasts, the better. The warranty should deal with poor work and defective materials, and you should have manufacturer warranty copies too.
Make sure any roofer that you hire has the licensing necessary to do the work. If you’re unsure of what that is exactly, don’t just assume everything is okay because the contractors says it is. Look up your local building department and call to ask what paperwork is needed.
The age of your roof often determines if it’s time to have it replaced. The average lifespan of a roof is about 20 years. Some homes have been fitted with a new roof right on top of the old one; if you’re in this situation it may be time to tear both off and start fresh.
Before installing your new shingles, check them thoroughly for any damage or defects. Using damaged materials, such as cracked shingles, can be a primary cause of a leak right from the start. Ensure the shingles have no cracks and make sure that your nails can secure the shingles to the structure.
Ask your roofer about any warranties they might offer. You may find a better warranty with another company. Also, make sure your warranty is a written one, that is provided along with your price quote. This will prevent possible disagreements on terms later.
In order to properly maintain your roof, you need to clear away any and all debris. If these things build up on your roof that could trap water onto it. If water is allowed to pool, it can lead to rotting beneath shingles and cause expensive and damaging leakage.
Wen replacing your roof, consider using architectural shingles. These are better than regular shingles and last a lot longer. Also, these types shingles are highly desired so they can actually improve the value of your home.
Don’t pay in full for your roof prior to installation. It’s not a sign of good faith for a company to want all the money up front. In fact many scam artists follow this technique and then never do any work. Rather, pay a smaller percentage initially, and pay the remaining balance once you are happy with the final product.
Get on the roof to check it following a strong wind if you cannot see anything from a ladder or the ground. A few shingles blown off can result in major leaks, so you must fix the damage as soon as possible. Give it a quick look-over every time, but remember to do so safely.
It is dangerous to climb on the roof. After all, most roofs have an awkward design that make it difficult for a person to maneuver. Because of this, you should ensure you take precautions. Wear appropriate boots, ones with rubber grip soles. You should also make use of a harness. Finally, you should always enlist the help of a loved one.
Check with Better Business Bureau if the roofer you are considering has anything on record. This can help you see whether customers have filed complaints with your prospective contractors. The Chamber of Commerce for your location is another good place to seek information on contractors.
Contractors that are reputable are always going to have insurance in case an accident were to occur while they’re working. If they aren’t insured, you are responsible for any damages that occur, so it is important to hire a contractor with adequate insurance. Always request that your contractor provide this information, and get in touch with his insurance company as well for verification.
If you’re considering working with a roofing company, check to see if their employees are sub-contracted. If the people they intend to have working on your home are not employed by the company, that may pose a problem if there is a liability issue later. Double-check before you sign any contracts.
Prior to selecting a roofer, be certain to learn a bit about roofing. Read up on types of roofs and rules before speaking with a contractor. This helps you avoid scammers, as you will know what it takes to get your roof repaired or replaced properly.
All roofing contractors aren’t equal, so you must choose wisely. Do not just go based on fancy ads. Recommendations from people you trust are reliable. Read online reviews and speak with friends. What do local business groups think of the roofer? The wrong contractor may ultimately drain your wallet.
Now that you’ve read the tips in this article, you ought to feel better about your roof because you know more. If you take care of your roof properly, it will give you fewer problems in the years ahead. Follow these tips to manage any roofing problems you encounter.
