No homeowner wants to be facing major roof repair project. It is wise to make small repairs to your roof before they become larger issues. Read through the following tips to learn what goes into proper roof maintenance.
When repairing your roof, ensure you keep safety in mind. Don’t try to fix a leaking roof, for instance, while it is still storming outside. This is very dangerous. Keep a bucket underneath any leaks until you have improved weather and then go inspect your roof.
Inspect your own roof yearly. Roofs tend to suffer the most damaged during winter months as well as spring and winter.
Leaks are often caused by weak shingles, but don’t discount a foundation problem as well. Dry rot on the side of your home can lead to leaks.You should examine all entry points so that you can find the problem.
Don’t attempt to create a temporary fix for your roof. You may think you are saving money, but in the long run you could end up spending a lot more due to major damage. Fix any issues promptly and properly to ensure that the problem does not worsen down the line.
Consider your climate when thinking about roofing. Clay roofs work great for dry climates and can help to keep the house cool. Clay roof tiles should not be used in wet climates as they will deteriorate much quicker than other materials would. If you have questions about this, then don’t be afraid to ask.
Mow your lawn the day before your roof. This will make it easier to find any nails that fall from the ground so you can pick them up later. Even better, it’ll work better with clipped grass.
Walking around on your roof looking for damage is not always safe. Get an inspector out to do the job right. You do not want to run the risk of the roof collapsing when you go on it.
It is important that you check out your potential contractor’s history before you hire.Once you’ve got them, give them a call and ask them about the value and quality of the work. You should also go and check out some of these homes yourself. Drive by and look at the work before deciding who to hire.
Make sure you research when looking for a roofing contractor. Don’t hire the cheapest contractor you can find.
What warranty does your roofer offer? One company may offer you a better warranty than another. Also, make sure to get any warranties and estimates in writing, so you will have them in your possession. This will allow you to clear up any disagreements that may occur at a later time.
Make sure any roofer has liability insurance. The main thing that this will show you about a policy bodes well for a contractor’s reliability.Secondly, should something happen to your roof as they are working on it, their insurance company would cover the costs.
Make sure the roofer you hire is trained and skilled. You might consider asking family and friends for roofing contractor recommendations. This is important because you get a lot of money.
When you’re trying to hire someone to work on your roof, see how long they’ve been doing roofing. The contractors that have been around for a while definitely keep their customers happy. If they haven’t been in business long, there may be a reason for that.
You never want to climb atop your own roof to inspect for damaged spots. If you think your roof has problems, have a professional come take a look. You want to avoid walking up there and causing a cave in under your feet.
If you think your roof is leaking, bring a hose with you and spray the roof down. This might help you know if you do indeed have a leak and where the leak is. This will cost you much less than hiring contractors.
Before a contractor works on your roof, ask questions first. The worst thing you can do is keep a question to yourself only to have a problem develop later on. If any contractor can not or will not answer any questions you have, you probably do not want to work with them.
Only consider hiring roofers who are able to show proof of an active license and licenses.
Don’t cut corners when you are purchasing new materials for your home’s roof. The cheapest supplies aren’t necessarily the cost of the damage and repairs that substandard materials lead to.
Remember that walking on your roof is hazardous. Roofs aren’t built for people to be walking over them. Wear appropriate boots, ones with rubber grip soles. Wear a harness if you have one. Additionally, always have another person there to assist you.
Think about selecting architectural shingles on your new roof. They’re great looking and last longer.
Do not pay upfront for a roofer provides. Many shady contractors actually never return to finish work after receiving full payment.
Given the number of variables you have to consider, you should weigh your choice of roofing contractor very carefully. For solid advice and suggestions, talk to friends, neighbors, or family members that have had roofing work done recently. Ask a lot of questions to make sure that they are recommending someone that is worth the time and money.
Get several quotes prior to hiring one. Some in the roofing business may be looking for suckers and will try to get every dime out of unsuspecting consumers. To avoid falling for a scam and losing your money, you need to see what the going rate is in your market before making decisions.
If you desire to do as little work on your roof as possible, make sure you don’t neglect your roof altogether. To do so could have disastrous effects in the future. Rather, remember the information that you read in this article and put it to good use in the future. Maintaining it properly will save a lot of trouble and money for years.
It is important to know your roof’s age in order to determine what type of repair is necessary. Knowing when you should hire a pro to replace it is dependent on how old it is. Many roofs last from 15-20 years, so if the roof is this old, you need to upgrade it.