When you have a great roof, your home is much safer from the hostile effects of wind and water. When the roof begins to fail, all sorts of chaos can commence. If you know how to deal with roofing issues, you’ll be able to avoid problems in the future. Read the below article for excellent tips on keeping your roof in good shape.
Replacing Shingles
Never delay in repairing or replacing shingles. You may want to avoid repairs, but waiting will only make things worse. Repairing or replacing shingles right away will save you money and a headache in the long run. If your roof is properly maintained, it will last quite a while.
While leaks sometimes can be caused by shingles that are faulty, be sure you look at your roof’s foundation too. If there is dry rot on your home’s sides, you may get water in your home. Check everything over to ensure it is up to snuff.
With regards to roofing, it is important to consider the weather. When you live in a dry climate, go for clay tile. In rainy climates, a clay roof can deteriorate quickly. Be sure to ask an expert if you aren’t sure.
If you have a contractor coming to remove your old roof, be sure to cut the grass beforehand. Major roof work will inevitably scatter some nails on your lawn, and close-cropped grass will make it easier for you or your contractor to recover them. If you get a contractor that has a nail finder with magnets on it, it will work better in shorter grasses.
There are many questions you’ll need to ask a prospective contractor before signing a contract. For instance, see how many nails a given contractor uses for every shingle. Generally, three nails are not enough. Ask them about the methods they use to find out whether or not they give good answers. If you don’t get the right answers, walk away.
When selecting a roofer, you need to make sure that they have a liability insurance policy. Roofers with this kind of insurance are more reliable than others. If something happens to the roof when they are working up there, the insurance will pay for the issues.
The age of your roof determines whether it needs to be replaced or not. Most roofs only have twenty years or so before they must be replaced. If you have a roof that was put in over an old one you need to have it replaced after twenty years no matter what.
Living Roof
If you would like to install an environmentally friendly roof, you should consider a living roof. A living roof actually contains layers of soil that can be used to plant a garden or to grow vegetables. While they are only ideal for flat roofs in the right climate, they are also a great source of insulation.
You should always consider a roofer’s experience while going through the hiring process. Usually if they have been in business awhile, they know what makes customers happy. Anyone new to the area may be a scammer ready to steal your money.
Only hire a roofing contractor that is able to supply you with proof of an active license and insurance. If they don’t have this available, then it’s best not even to consider hiring their services. This is because you won’t have any recourse if their workmanship isn’t up to par and it ends up causing your home to have thousands of dollars in damages.
To maintain your roof, keep it free of sticks, leaves and other debris. If debris builds up, it can cause water to stagnate. Sitting water on your roof can lead to rotting, leaks and a huge repair bill.
Ask any contractor you are considering what associations the roofing company is a member of. If he is not aware of what is going on, you may want to try someone else. Otherwise, they may not have the necessary dedication to quality work.
Coated Metal Roofs
If you want a “greener” roof, you may want to look into coated metal roofs. In addition to reducing your monthly energy bills, this type of roof is 100 percent recyclable. You can place coated metal roofs over asphalt tiles. By doing this, you will significantly reduce your carbon footprint.
If you want to redesigned your roof, for instance by installing a metal roof or getting some turrets, find a contractor who has worked on similar projects before. If they have little or no experience, find a different roofer. You sure don’t want to take chances like that when it pertains to your roof.
If a contract isn’t in writing, then you shouldn’t agree to it. Usually, when there is a verbal contract between an individual and a roofer, there are conflicts that arise later on if the job is not done to expectation. The best form of proof you can have when the job is not done properly is a contract.
If a roof is poorly maintained, it can be a nightmare to deal with the repairs or replacement. By using the things you’ve gone over here, you shouldn’t have to deal with any trouble later. Use the knowledge at the right time, and you will find confidence in taking care of your roof.