No homeowner wants to be facing major roof concerns. But if a small repair needs to be done, you should fix it before it turns into a huge problem. If you care for your roof now with just a little effort, this could lead you to not having to expend a greater effort down the road. Consider these great roofing advice so that you can maintain a good roof.
Leaks often come from shingles, but don’t discount a foundation problem as well. Water can get into your home anywhere that dry rot has occurred. Review all entry points, look for rotting wood and make sure the issue is resolved.
Keep your climate in mind before getting any roof work done. For instance, certain roofing materials, like clay, are better in cool climates. Clay roof tiles on a house in a rainy climate will result in the roof deteriorating rather quickly. If you do not know if these are ideal for you, ask a pro.
Before you sign any contract, make sure you ask certain questions of a roofer. For instance, see how many nails a given contractor uses for every shingle. Typically, you would want more than three. Ask them about the methods they use to find out whether or not they give good answers. If they don’t answer things right, move on.
Do not make changes to your roof that are not long-term. It may seem like a money saver, but it may end up causing more damage, and that may cost you more. You have to make sure to fix the issue completely; that way, you avoid problems down the line.
You never want to climb atop your own roof to inspect for damage. If you know there is a problem, get a professional to visit and do an inspection. You don’t need to walk up there and have it cave in.
Insurance is something you need to have when it comes to roof work. In the event that a roofer damages anything on your property and is not insured, it’s up to you to pay for it. You should ask your contractor to give you a copy of their policy and proof of insurance.
Do not worry if you are unable to immediately find your roof leak. It won’t take long for you to identify it by eliminating other possibilities by using a hose and another pair of eyes. If your house is large, talk on cell phones in order to prevent unnecessary deluges of water during testing.
If you aren’t able to see the roof from a ladder or the ground, think about heading up to your roof to check it out after any strong storm. It’s critical to find damage to shingles early, and a few flying shingles can result in major leaks. Do a quick, safe check every time.
Expect complete professionalism from your contractor at every step in the process. A roofer should give you a quote for the job that is easy to read and comprehensive. You need the whole process to remain professional so that you can be sure their work is too.
Determine if your potential roofer can perform annual maintenance on your roof. No matter how good someone may be at installing a roof, issues will probably happen if you’re living in a place with extreme temperatures. having a yearly visit may help you maintain your roof properly.
Verbally Agree
Don’t verbally agree to a contract; get a written one. Sometimes, homeowners just verbally agree to something, which can cause issues if work is done the right way. The best form of proof you can have when the job is not done properly is a contract.
OSHA requirements state that any roofing contractor should develop safety plans for the project they’re working on. This will ensure that the project is done properly. Always ask whether a prospective contractor currently follows such a plan. If they do not provide you with a safety plan, find another contractor.
When you’re looking to hire a contractor, you have to get the project outlined to you before they start. Talk about the materials used, how the roof will be cleaned and how long it will take. Make sure you completely understand this plan. If you aren’t comfortable with the information your contractor is providing you with, it may be time to look in a different direction.
Hiring roofing specialists isn’t easy, so take your time. If you don’t know what you need to look for, you should talk to people you know to see if they have hired anyone they liked before. Ask quite a few questions to see if their recommendation is worth your time and the money you’ll be spending.
Is your roofer going to hire sub-contractors? It can be a liability issue if they don’t work for the company you hired. Double-check before you sign any contracts.
Do not just assume that you are in need of a new roof. Have a professional inspect it before making plans to replace it. A much less expensive repair may result in a perfectly sound roof.
Always ensure that any potential roofing company you hire has the necessary paperwork ready before they start. Know what is legally required in your area in the way of licenses, building permits and bonds. Talk to your local building department and learn which licenses and permits are required before a contractor can work on your roof.
Watch out for roofing companies that send their employees door-to-door. Reputable roofers with solid community ties generally do not need to actively seek out new clients on a door-to-door basis. Credible firms tend to set appointments instead. Also, their employees usually have a vehicle containing the company’s name and wear uniforms. There are always exceptions to the rule, however lack of these signs should be considered it a warning to check further into a company.
If you desire to do as little work on your roof as possible, make sure you don’t neglect your roof altogether. This could cause serious issues down the road. Rather, use your new base of knowledge to maintain your roof well. They will help you keep your roof in great shape and hopefully save you money over time.