Keeping your roof in good shape is not always easy. It takes time and energy to get the job done. You shouldn’t neglect it. The roof is an important barrier for the rest of your home, and it needs to be treated well. This article is going to teach you what you need to do.
When you must climb on the roof, wear some rubber boots. You need rubber soles to get good traction even when it is dry and sunny. You never know what you will encounter on the roof, and what you will have to do, so good footwear is essential.
Always check references. Follow up on the reference you are given and contact them for their experiences with the contractor you are considering. Visit some of the homes on the list. Drive past them and examine the work carefully before choosing your roofer.
Avoid using short-term remedies on your roof. While it may seem like a cheaper choice, it can actually result in more damage in the future, costing you a whole lot more money. It’s best to fix problems immediately, instead of letting them get worse.
When you have your contractors narrowed down, ask them about the warranties they provide. Most roofers offer a warranty on their work for up to five years. The longer the warranty you can get, the better. The warranty must cover defective supplies and shoddy workmanship. Make sure the contractor gives you a copy of it.
One thing to ensure is that the contractor you choose is insured and bonded. If you hire a contractor who is not properly insured, you will be responsible for any damage they cause. Don’t just take their word for it either; ask for proof that they have plenty of up to date, comprehensive coverage.
If your contractor has workers with them, this could be cheaper than one that works alone. A team can work quicker and the price may be more affordable, too. Make sure that solo roofers are not overcharging you for labor.
Discuss warranty options with any potential contractor. You’ll find that some contractors offer much better warranties 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 prevent possible disagreements on terms later.
It can sometimes be difficult to locate a leak in your roof. You will find the source eventually if you use a water hose, and having a buddy will help as well. If you have a big area to cover, talk to your helper by cell phone when you test various areas to avoid excess water from getting into the house.
When hiring a contractor, only hire someone who provides a copy of their license and insurance. If they can’t then look elsewhere. Without this protection, you have no way to recoup your costs in the event of damages or faulty installation.
When replacing the roof, consider shingles that are architectural. They’re great looking and last a long time. They are highly sought after by many, so that adds value to the home when considering resale.
Don’t give a contractor all of the money for your roofing job before they even begin. One common scam among dishonest contractors, is to demand full payment up-front. These shady characters will rarely return to finish the job. Because of this, you should only pay a small percentage upfront. Only pay the rest when the contractor has completed the work.
Don’t let a contractor do work for you if they don’t act professional in every area. As an example, the best contractors will always give you a formal quote that includes all work to be done and costs. If they’re not professional every step of the way, their work might not be up to par.
With regards to roof maintenance, most homeowners often neglect replacing roof boots. These are rubber components that sit near the roof fence, and they have the potential to get too dry. If this happens, you may get a leak, so inspect them and replace them if need be.
It is hazardous to climb atop the roof. Many roofs are not designed to be easily navigated, so it is important to take safety into consideration. Wear rubber sole shoes so you will not slip. A harness should also be used if you can. Lastly, you should always have someone on hand to help you.
Ask loved ones for recommendations on a roofer. This is one of the best ways to find someone reliable and honest. Consult with other contractors for referrals. This can be anything from a plumber to a carpenter. They may be able to tell you where to look.
Safety Plan
Projects being undertaken by roofing contractors must have a safety plan in place as per OSHA requirements. This plan is important in assuring you that your roofing project will be done correctly. Thus, make sure any prospective contractor has such a plan established. If they do not provide you with a safety plan, find another contractor.
You may end up spending a lot of money and time maintaining your roof. You should understand how much your roof means to you now. Come back to read this article if you have a roofing issue that comes up later on in the future. You’ll be glad you did.
