Most roofs are built to protect a home anywhere from 10 to 15 years, but it can’t do everything by itself. You have to be sure that you’re taking care of your roof is maintained and cared for properly. Keep reading for more information about roofs.
Inspect your roof yearly. Spring and winter are times when damage is prevalent. Therefore, make sure you pay attention to your roof at these times.
While damaged shingles are sometimes the cause of leaks, you should also check the foundation of the roof. Water can enter into your home through dry-rotted siding. You need to be checking all potential entry points to make sure there is no problem.
If you find your roof leaking during rainy weather, don’t try and fix the problem until the weather gets better. Fixing a leak can take some time and walking on a slippery roof is extremely dangerous. Once the sun is shining again, you can look at the roof with a fresh set of eyes.
If you’re working on a leak, make sure you get it right with the first try. This often means you’re not going to want to only stop on the initial spot has problems. Check the whole roof and you can see if there are more problems.
Make sure that you replace your shingles when they become worn. Waiting can just allow the damage to worsen. When you get the job done now, you avoid future disasters. Your roof will last longer if it is maintained well.
Mow your lawn before the contractor work on your roof. This will allow you to have an easier time locating nails that fall from the roof. If the contractor uses a magnetized nail finder, it will work better in shorter grasses.
When making roof repairs, safety needs to be a priority. The weather is key to whether or not you should be up on a roof. Put a bucket where it’s leaking and wait for clear weather.
It is important that you check the references of any contractor you allow them to work on your roof.Once you’ve got them, ask the homeowners who the roofer worked for how they feel about the quality and value of the work. You need to also go and check out some of their previous work. Drive past them and look at the work carefully before choosing your roofer.
When fixing a leak on your roof, be sure all repairs are done at the same time. Do not stop after fixing one small area. Inspect your roof carefully and look for other areas that need to be fixed too.
Always research roofing job. Don’t hire the cheapest contractor you can find.
Be sure that you are properly secured anytime that you go on top of your roof. This is very important because many people are hurt or killed every year as a result of a fall from a roof.
Make sure any roofer you hire has adequate liability insurance. The mere existence of such a roofer is the fact that they are a reliable person. This will also help you if something were to go wrong with the project, their insurance will cover it.
When hiring a roofing contractor, checking their background references is an absolute must. Ask previous customers whether they are satisfied with the work done and the price paid. It’s a good idea to check out the work for your own peace of mind. Drive around and look at the work before determining who you will hire.
If you are waiting for your roofing contractor to show up, you may need a temporary fix. You can nail heavy grade plastic to damaged areas.
Make sure to do your research when looking for a roofing contractor. You shouldn’t hire the first or the cheapest one you find. Instead you need to look around at different roofing companies where you live. The Internet is a great resource, as are family members and friends.
You never want to climb atop your roof looking for damage. If you have any doubt about the structural integrity, get a professional to visit and do an inspection. You don’t need to walk up there and have the roof cave in.
If you’ve called a roofer, but their visit isn’t for another couple days, use a type of temporary fix on the leaky roof. Buy some heavy plastic, and secure it with nails. While not ideal, it will provide a temporary solution for you.
The age of your roof can help you figure out if it’s time to have it replaced. Most roofs have a lifespan of twenty years or so before replacement is needed. If the roof you have now covered the old roof, you are going to have to redo your roofing in 20 years.
You should generally avoid walking around your roof seeking out areas that are damaged. If you have issues, try hiring a roofing contractor to stop by and look at the spots. You don’t need to walk up there and have it cave in.
Check roofing materials thoroughly before installation.
Once you have narrowed down your list of potential contractors, ask them what kind of warranties are available. You want one that is about 3 to 5 years, and longer is preferable. You should have defective supplies covered and poor workmanship, too. Don’t forget to get copies of any warranty that you are offered.
Only hire a roofing contractor that is able to supply you with proof of active license and insurance policies.
If you hire a contractor who has workers to help them, it is often cheaper than hiring a contractor who works alone. A roofing team can accomplish a job quicker and this usually ends up with a much cheaper final product. Make sure that solo roofers are not overcharging you for labor.
Don’t think that you can cut corners when 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.
If you’re unable to find where a leak is coming from in your roof, don’t get upset. You’ll find it sooner or later, likely by using a hose and having a friend help. Use cell phones with one person in the attic and the other outside.
Architectural shingles can be a great alternative roofing material. They’re more attractive and also last a long time.
You can check a possible roof leak with a water hose. That helps you find the leak and stop it. It’s cheaper than hiring a pro.
Only hire people who are professionals to work on your roof. You want the job will get done right.
Utilize architectural shingles whenever you have to replace the roof. Architectural shingles look much better than regular ones and will last longer. These shingles are desired by those looking to purchase a home, so when you sell your home, it will be worth more.
It can be very dangerous to climb up on your roof. Roofs aren’t designed for human traffic. Wear shoes with rubber soles to prevent slippage. A harness is also be used if you can.
When you have a contractor putting in a new roof for you, it is vital that you ask for his amount of experience. If they have limited knowledge, find someone else. This is an important issue that you need a professional for.
A reputable roofing company can provide you with proof of insurance to cover any accidents.If such insurance is lacking, you are responsible for any damages that occur, so it is important to hire a contractor with adequate insurance. Ask contractors for this and verify it by calling their insurer.
Climbing onto your roof is dangerous. Roofs aren’t built for people to be walking over them. To help you prevent slipping, wear rubber-sole shoes. A harness is also strongly encouraged. Try to get a family member to help you out.
If you make sure your roof’s in good shape, it’ll be able to keep your home in good shape as well. In a lot of ways, the roof of your home is an important asset to you. Keep this advice in mind, and apply it at the right time.
One of the first stops when looking for any repair contractor is the local Better Business Bureau. This will show you if any previous customers of the companies you are considering have lodged complaints. Contact your Chamber of Commerce for more information.
