Your roof should be viewed as your first line of defense against the elements. That is the main reason why it must be properly maintained. Too often homeowners fail to look after their roofs until it is too late. Use the following tips to take good care of your roof the right way.
Inspect your roof once a year at the bare minimum. Roofs are commonly most damaged during winter months as well as spring time. Due to this, it is best to keep a close eye on your roof during this time especially.
If you have a leak when it rains, wait until the area is dry to start fixing it. You could compromise your safety on a slippery roof. A dry is roof is a safe roof.
While leaks sometimes do come from problems with your shingles, be sure you look at your roof’s foundation too. Water can enter into your home through dry-rotted siding. Check all areas to make sure this doesn’t happen.
Don’t procrastinate replacing worn or broken shingles. You might think it’s wise to wait on fixing something, however, the damage will just get worse in time. Replacing or repairing shingles immediately can save money and stress later. If you keep your roof maintained, it will last you a while.
Consider the climate when replacing your roof. Clay roofs are great in dry climates and can help to keep the home cool. Clay does not do well in wet climates and can cause rapid deterioration. If you are hesitant if it will suit your area, ask a professional.
Make sure that you’re safely secured whenever you climb onto your roof.
When you fix a leak, it is imperative that you get the job done on the first go. Do not stop after fixing one small area. If you take the time to check your whole roof, you will not have to deal with additional, often worse, problems down the road.
Mow your lawn prior to having a contractor comes to remove your roof.This will ensure he can find nails much easier should they fall during the job. If the contractor uses a magnetized nail finder, it will work best with the short grass.
After you’ve narrowed down your list of contractors, determine which one offers the best warranty. You want at least a 3-5 years.It should cover both defective supplies as well as poor workmanship, and they should also give you photocopies of manufacturer warranties too.
When hiring a roofing contractor, ensure that they’re skilled at roofing. You can ask family and friends for roofing contractor recommendations. This is key, as you never want to have poor work done on your roof, causing you to spend more money down the line.
Insurance is vital when it comes to this line of work. If you hire a contractor without insurance and something goes wrong, you are responsible for the bill. Don’t simply ask if your contractor is insured, get documentation that they do and go over it carefully.
The age of your roof is the most important factor in deciding whether to repair or not. Most roofs have a lifespan of twenty years or so before they must be replaced. If you installed a roof on top of your older roof, you must replace it after 20 years.
When hiring a contractor, ensure he has the proper licenses. Do not trust the roofer to tell you the honest truth about what is required. Contact your local building department and ask them what is needed.
Ask prospective roofing contractor how long they’ve been in business. Those who have been around in your area for some time obviously know how to keep their customers happy. A roofer with no track record is pretty suspicious; be aware that such contractors may intend to take your money and run.
Don’t overlook small things when you hire a contractor. Someone who shows up on time and calls ahead when they say they will is probably dependable. You want your roofing contractor.
You can check a possible roof leak with a water hose. Not only will you know for sure whether a leak exists, you will also know exactly where it is. This will cost you much less than hiring an expert.
Think about using architectural shingles for a roof replacement project.They’re more attractive and also last a long time.
Don’t let anyone that doesn’t have demonstrated anything less than professional behavior to work on your home. You want the whole process to be professional so that you can be sure their work is too.
Don’t give a contractor all of the money for your roofing job before they even begin. This is a trick used amongst scam artists who never intend on actually repairing or replacing your roof. Pay a deposit if required, but then you pay the balance after the work is done to your liking.
Many people neglect the roof boots when roofing. They are found along the roof fence and can get dried out. When this happens, leaks are far more likely, so don’t forget to check and replace as needed.
Speak with family and friends when seeking a roofing companies that are good. This is the best way to find someone reliable and honest. They may at least have the ability to send you where to look.
Think about roofing structured from coated metal as an environmentally friendly option. The materials used are completely recyclable, and they can reduce your energy bill considerably. This type of roof can be placed over an existing asphalt roof.
As stated earlier, the roof is essential to protecting you from the outdoors. Be sure and use the tips and tricks mentioned above so that you and your loved ones remain safe throughout the year. It is well worth the effort in the end.