Roofing Questions Answered In This Article
One thing that every homeowner should know a little bit about is roofing. The fact of the matter is, your roof plays a vital role in the wellbeing of your entire home. Not only does it protect you and your family from the elements, it also helps protect the rest of your house as well. Below are some important tips with regards to roofing. Read on and learn.
Always keep safety in mind. If you will be going up on your roof, be sure that you think about what you are doing and be as safe as possible. If there is any moisture, such as rain, ice or snow, wait for it to dry off before going up on your roof.
If you have a general handyman that does work in and around your home, do not allow him to do anything to your roof. Fixing a roof requires a high level of experience and know-how. This is why you would be better off hiring someone that specializes in this type of work.
Sometimes it can be hard to determine if you just need your roof fixed or if it needs to be replaced. This decision is usually made when you have a leak, storm damage or your roof is at least 15 years old. Have your roof inspected by your insurer and trust in their diagnosis.
The age of your roof is the most important factor in deciding whether to repair or replace it. A lot of roofs will only last about twenty years before needing to be replaced. If you installed your roof above an old one, you definitely need to have it replaced after twenty years.
Discuss warranty options with any potential contractor. Some contractors might offer better deals than others. Additionally, you should be sure you get a written copy of the warranty at the same time you receive the estimate so that you'll have the documentation on-hand. This will keep things running smoothly because they're bound by the warranty.
Take the roofer's credentials into consideration during the hiring process. Although credentials do not give you a guarantee that you will get quality work, they do show you how involved the person is with your local community. It also says a little something about their character as well, which is valuable information.
How long has the contractor been in business? Contractors who have a long work history are more likely to provide excellent service. Any new roofer on the scene may actually just be a scammer hoping to take your dollar.
It is important that any roofing contractor you are considering provides you with the address of their physical location. It should not be a PO box or an apartment! When they have office space, even if it is within a home they own, you know where to go if you have any problems.
Always buy the best roofing materials you can afford. Cheaper materials typically won't last as long, causing you added expense later. Save money in the long run - buy quality materials.
Consider the type of roofing materials used on other homes in your neighborhood. It is best to blend in and avoid standing out as too different. You home will seem more attractive to a prospective buyer when it looks as if it fits into the neighborhood in which it is located.
Do not ignore any of the signs that you have a leak. It can be stressful to acknowledge that you may have an expensive problem on your hands, but avoiding it will almost surely lead to a bigger issue in the long run. To avoid this you should address any sign of a leak immediately.
Ask for roofing quotes that compare the various products that can be used on your roof. For example, you should ask them to give you the numbers for at least three different types of shingles. You could also ask for a comparison liners and insullation that they tend to work with.
Make sure that there is a solid contract in place before you allow anyone to start work on the home. The contract should detail everything about the job, including costs and the amount of time it should take. Also, make sure that it is signed by you and the one you are contracting.
Always ask your roofer how long his company has been in business for. How much experience the roofer has is important, but that is not the same thing. You want to go with an established company that has a number of satisfied customers. They will work hard to make sure they uphold their reputation with each job that they do.
Now that you've read the article above, you are ready to handle any roofing issues that may come your way. Be sure to refer back to this article often to refresh some of the important lessons you have just learned. Remember that keeping your roof in good shape will protect you, your family and your home.