A properly maintained roof is generally expected to last for fifteen years or so, but not without upkeep. You should always maintain your roof all of the time. The following tips will give you some ideas about roofing.
If your roof leaks, hold off on your inspection until things dry out. You can’t walk safely on a wet and slippery roof.A dry is roof is a safe roof.
Make sure to inspect your roof annually. The roof is particularly vulnerable during the cold winter months on in to the warmer spring season. This means it is important to pay extra attention during these times.
Never neglect safety when working on your roof. You can be seriously injured by attempting to fix a leak during a storm. Put a bucket under that leak until weather conditions improve and wait for clear weather.
Make sure to do your homework is done when looking for a roofing contractor. Don’t hire the cheapest contractor you can find.
If you’re working on a leak, do it right the first time. 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.
Make sure whatever roofer that you employ has the proper licence to do the job. Do not simply believe that he is legitimate based off what is required.Call up the local building department and ask what is needed.
The age of your roof is a major factor in deciding whether it needs replacing or not. Most roofs need to be replaced about 20 years. If you installed your roof above an old one, you must replace it after 20 years.
Make sure to wear rubber boots if you ever need to get on your roof. Even if the weather is dry you don’t want to take any chances of slipping off the roof. Do not put yourself in dangerous positions when on the roof.
Always check a roofing company’s references. A company will have no problem giving you a few references. If the company is dodgy about references, walk away. This is a sign of trouble ahead.
Don’t get too discouraged if you’re unable to locate where a roof is leaking from. You will find the source eventually if you use a water hose, and the use of a water hose and a buddy system can help. If you have a big area to cover, utilize cell phones for communication to avoid having water leaking into the house any more than necessary when you test various areas to locate the leak.
Prior to the removal of your old roof, make sure your lawn is cut short. This will make it easier to find any nails that fall from the roof. Even better, a magnetized nail finder will work at its optimum in short grass.
Only hire a roofing contractor that is able to show proof of current insurance and licenses.
Keep your roof and other debris to make it last. If there is a build of debris, they’ll keep water from leaving your roof. When water stagnates, the wood beneath the shingle may rot, which requires costly repair work.
Co-workers, friends, and family should be the first resources for picking a contractor. Ask them about their experience with roofers, whether or not they were satisfied with the quality of service and the price of the job. Also speak with them about how well the cleanup went as well as if they got a warranty on future work.
Architectural shingles can be a great alternative roofing material. They’re more attractive and last longer.
When you’re thinking about hiring someone to work on your roof, do some research with the BBB. This will allow you if any previous customers of the companies you are considering have lodged any complaints with any contractors you are thinking of hiring. You can also check the Chamber of Commerce as well.
If you have already called a roofing contractor, but he is not scheduled to visit for a few days, you should try to provide yourself with a temporary fix for your leaking roof. Nail heavy plastic on the leaky area. This isn’t the best way to manage leaks, but it can help you out in a pinch.
Take your time when choosing a contractor. Ask a ton of questions about the contractors these people have used to ascertain whether they recommend someone that is well worth speaking to.
Do not assume that you are in need of a new roof. Call a roofer and have them look at your roof before you invest any money.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential contractors, be sure to inquire about the provided warranties of each company. You’re looking for a warranty which lasts between three to five years. The longer it is, the better. It should cover both defective supplies as well as poor workmanship, plus they should give you copies of all manufacturer warranties as well.
A little effort can ensure that your roof is in good shape for many years. Given its vital role in protecting your home from weather, the importance of your roof can’t be overstated. Apply the tips from this article and do more research about roofing.
