It isn’t fun to have problems with your roof. If you do, however, have to have roof work done, then it’s much better to tackle a small problem before it turns into a major one. Maintaining your roof just requires that you stay on top of things to prevent larger issues down the road. Check out these roofing tips so that you’ll know how to maintain your roof properly.
When replacing your roof, always use a reputable contractor. Make sure to find someone with experience and a good reputation in your area. While you might find that a less experienced roofer is also less expensive, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Go for a professional, and your new roof will last!
If you have a leaky roof, make sure that your gutters are clear. If there is no way for water to drain, then the gutters can accumulate rainwater and cause leaks in the roof. Install ridge and soffit vents so you can prevent any dry rot from developing on your roof.
Ask for copies of the roofing company’s liability coverage before letting them work on your roof. If they are an experienced and professional company, then they should have these papers with them when they meet with you. Any company that doesn’t carry or outright refuses to provide copies of their insurance and papers detailing worker’s compensation should be avoided.
When choosing between roofing contractors, contact your local Better Business Bureau for advice. They will let you know if any of the firms you are considering have complaints filed against them, a major red flag. You can also learn how long they have been serving your community as a company.
When hiring a roofing contractor, be extra cautious of those who won’t give you an estimate on paper before the work is started. A reputable contractor should have no problem supplying you with an estimate that details the costs involved and the work to be performed. You should look elsewhere if a contractor won’t agree to supply that information.
Don’t pay until the roofer finishes the work. While you might have to pay a small deposit, it shouldn’t exceed 25% of the project’s full price, or the base cost of just the materials. Never pay for labor in advance. Make sure you always look at completed work, then get copies of all important paperwork before you pay the roofer.
Never allow someone to work on your roof without then furnishing a written contract. If they do work that is subpar and you end up having issues with them, it will be hard to prove what they were contracted to do if you don’t have any paperwork. If your contractor gives you a hard time about this, it would probably be best to find someone else.
It is never a good idea to neglect the care and maintenance of your roof. That just paves the way for serious problems in the future. Make good use of the tips you just read in this article if you need to repair your roof. Keeping yours well-maintained can save you tons of money and trouble in the long run.