When it comes to your roof, chances are you don’t know too much about how to maintain it properly. However, investing some time and energy into performing annual roof inspections and other standard roofing procedures can save you from future troubles. Read on and learn what steps you need to take to care of your roofing needs.
One of the biggest foes of your roof is ice. When gutters back up and freeze up, they can push the shingles and even wood up off the top of your house. Once that ice begins to melt, it will leak inside and rot out your home. Watch for ice build-up and fix the problem quickly.
When meeting with a professional roofer, ask to see a copy of their liability insurance. Any trustworthy roofer should have copies readily available. If they have a hard time providing you with their papers, they’re probably not someone you want to work with. You want all your bases covered when you’re trusting someone with your roof.
Before entering a contract with a roofer, consult the Better Business Bureau. They’ll be able to tell you if complaints have been entered against this roofer in the past and may be able to give you insight that the roofer’s references won’t. The integrity of your roof is essential, and you don’t want to get scammed.
Make sure your grass is cut before the roof on your home is removed. This will allow you to have an easier time locating nails that fall on the ground so you can pick them up later. Your roofer may use a metal detector to locate lost nails, and this job will also go faster if your grass is freshly trimmed.
While giving a deposit to your roofer is normal, you shouldn’t pay for the job itself until it’s been completed. The rule of thumb is that the deposit shouldn’t be more than 25% of the roofer’s total estimate for the job. The roofer needs money in advance for materials, but they don’t need to be paid for labor that hasn’t been done.
It is not a good idea to walk around on your roof to find damages. If you have any doubt about structural integrity, you should hire a professional. You do not want to risk the roof collapsing when you go on it.
Try spraying your roof down with your garden hose to find the leak. Remember, however, that this trick is only a good idea during the warmer months. Doing this in the winter is hazardous and can lead to further damage to your roof in the meantime. Be sure to have someone inside while the roof is being sprayed so that you are sure to find the culprit.
Always check the shade side of your home for deterioration of the shingles. The side exposed most to the sun lasts longer because the sun’s heat keeps the shingles lying flat. This prevents wind and rain from loosening the shingles, but shingles on the shaded side come loose sooner.
If you want to replace your roof, consider using a green alternative for material. Recycled roofing material, composed of used rubber and plastic, saves money and serves the environment. Solar panels are another option, as they can also reduce energy costs. They can also create a tax credit for homeowners.
Do not hire the first roofer that you talk to. The only way to get the best deal is to talk to several different people and see your options. In general, five bids is a good number. Any less than that, and you are probably selling yourself short.
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 will seem more attractive to a prospective buyer when it looks as if it fits into the neighborhood in which it is located.
Ask for references for any roofing contractor that you are considering. If they are reputable, they should have plenty of references available. If they tell you they have done work for others in your area, drive by and look at what they have done. Try talking to a few owners if that is an available option.
Ask your roofer if they are willing to give you a guarantee for the work they are doing for you. If they hesitate, this may be because their work is not as good as they claim it is. If they agree to a guarantee, make sure you get it in writing.
The contractor you hire to do your job should be local and reputable. Many people hire people from out of town because they are a bit cheaper, but that poses a problem if you have any issues. The contractor may not be able to come out and fix your problems right away since you are so far.
If you live in a cold climate, take extra precautions to install your new roof. When the temperature dips below freezing, the rain left in your gutters can freeze and cause cracks. Your roofer can prevent this by installing an ice and water barrier. This rubber membrane may cost a few hundred dollars more, but it can save you thousands.
Check with the BBB before hiring a contractor to do your roof. Good companies typically get listed with the bureau, while less than stellar companies typically avoid it. Utilize the power of the BBB when you are looking to hire any contracting service.
As was mentioned earlier, taking proper care of your roof is extremely important. Use the information provided in the article above to handle any of your roofing needs and save some money in the process. You’ll learn valuable skills, and your bank account will appreciate it.
