Home is often referred to as “the roof over your family’s head.” The roof is an important part of your home, and definitely more than in a metaphorical sense! Read the following advice on how to take care of your roof.
Inspect your roof annually. Roofs tend to suffer the most damaged during winter months as well as spring and winter.
If you find a leak during a storm, wait until it’s dry to examine and repair the leak. You could compromise your safety on a slippery roof. A dry is roof is a safe roof.
Though leaks may be the result of shingle issues, take a look at your roof’s foundation. Dry rot on the side of your home can lead to leaks. You need to be checking all potential entry points so that you can find the problem.
When repairing a leaky roof, you must finish the job right to begin with. This means searching for other leaks after the initial spot has been fixed. Check every square inch of your roof for problems; you can see if there are more problems that you’re going to have a number of issues.
Wear shoes with rubber soles whenever you climb onto your roof.
When you have your contractors narrowed down, find out what kind of warranties are available. You need to find someone offering a warranty that is going to last for at least 3-5 years. It must cover workmanship and defective supplies, plus they should give you copies of all manufacturer warranties as well.
Be sure a roofer is properly licensed. Do not simply believe that he is legitimate based off what is required. Contact the building department where you live and inquire about what kinds of things you’re going to need.
The age of your roof will determine whether it needs to be replaced or not. Many roofs last for around 20 years before they need replaced. If your existing roof was put directly into an older one, you really have no choice once twenty years has passed but to replace it.
Only hire a roofing contractor that is able to supply you with proof of an active licenses and insurance policies.
Ask any contractor you what associations the roofing company is a member of. The good contractors are going to be involved in these groups so that they keep up with all the latest technological advances and current information. If they don’t happen to be members, you need to be wondering whether the contractor is fully dedicated to his work.
Make sure all your questions when hiring a contractor. The worst thing you do not ask a question to yourself only to have a problem develop later on. If a contractor is not willing to answer your question, avoid him.
When you are seeking a roofing contract, it pays to contact the BBB. This will show you to see whether or not previous customers have lodged any complaints with any contractors you are thinking of hiring. You can also check the Chamber of Commerce.
A reputable roofer will always carry insurance that covers potential damage and accidents that might occur.If they do not have this insurance, you may have to cover damages they incur, so it is important to hire a contractor with adequate insurance. Ask contractors for this information and contact that insurance company to see if they can verify it by calling their insurer.
Speak with people you are good. This is the best ways to find a trustworthy roofer. They may be able to get you where to look.
OSHA mandates that roofers establish a safety procedures on projects. This makes sure that the project will be completed correctly.
Take it slow when hiring a contractor for your roofing needs. Ask tons of questions to ensure they are worth money and time.
Ask prospective roofers about their present workload. Find out how many employees within the company. Companies with lots of current projects and minimal employees are more likely to miss deadlines.
Don’t ever work on a roof by yourself.
Never let ice to build on your roof for long periods of time if you reside in a colder climate. Ice can be very damaging in more than one way. You can help protect your roof from ice with handy tools like ice shields and drip shields. Proper ventilation helps to prevent the problem.
Large trees are great for your home in many ways, but they can be harmful to roofs. Trim back any branches that are near the roof to minimize damage from nearby branches. This helps keep the roof won’t get damaged and you won’t have to worry about a gutter full of leaves.
Cleaning out your gutters is one of the most important tasks for roof maintenance. Clogged gutters prevent a roof leaks when the water can’t flow away freely and damages the roof. Make sure your gutters once monthly.
Make sure to get everything in writing, materials, proof of insurance, etc. A well-documented repair will run much smoother and can make future repairs easier to do. This legal document will also help prevent any disagreements or claims with the project.
If you want to undertake a roof repair yourself, have someone check on you every so often. You need an accident with nobody around to help. Have your buddy check up on you every 10 minutes to make sure that you’re safe.
Keeping your roof in good shape is a big part of being a responsible homeowner. While there are some household issues that can be tackled at a later date, this is not the case with your roof. Apply the tips you just read and learn more about roofing to make sure you take good care of your home.
