Are there some questionable areas on your home’s roof? Are certain areas looking problematic? Do you feel uneasy about what could be wrong with your roof? Be a better homeowner today by understanding how to maintain your roof. This will help you to avoid problems with your roof in the future.
If you find a leak during a storm, wait until everything is dry before heading up to your roof. Fixing a leak can take some time and walking on a slippery roof is extremely dangerous. When you know the roof has had time to dry, it’s safe to work on it.
Some leaks are caused by shingles, but you should check your roof’s foundation. Water could be seeping in from somewhere else, such as dry-rotted siding or gaps along windows or doors. Check all possible entries, including looking for rotted wood, to make sure the problem is solved permanently.
Your environment matters when thinking about your roof. Clay roofing is a great material if the area that you live in has a dry climate; it can help maintain a comfortable temperature inside the house. However, these do not survive well in wet climates and will have a short lifespan. If you do not know if these are ideal for you, ask a pro.
Insurance is vital when it comes to this type of work. If you hire a contractor who is not properly insured, you will be responsible for any damage they cause. Asking about insurance is not enough since people can be dishonest. You should ask for current proof of insurance.
You may be able to spend less money if the roofer you choose has people working for him. Having an entire team of roofers means the job will get done quicker, so it will cost less. A person working alone will often charge the same price, but will work more slowly. Make sure the labor cost is not too high.
Don’t get too discouraged if you’re not able to find out where a roof is leaking from. You’ll find it sooner or later, likely by using a hose and having a friend help. Communications can be enhanced by using cellular phones. This is especially helpful in the case of large houses.
Only hire a roofer that can provide proof of active licenses and insurance policies. If they do not provide you with these things, don’t hire them. If you hire a contractor who is not properly insured, you will have to cover any damage they cause.
Keeping your roof clear of sticks, leaves and excess debris can keep the quality up. Different debris and materials that build up can keep water sitting in spots on your roof. When water stagnates, the materials that make up your roof can rot, making you susceptible to leaks.
Speak with your contractor to determine his associations within the industry. Reputable firms will be interested in staying up to date with current trends and methods in the industry. If they are not keeping up to date, it may be wise to look elsewhere.
With all the tips here, you’re now a much more capable homeowner in terms of roofing maintenance. After you know what you should look for and what you should do when problems arise, you’ll be able to properly care for your roof. Give your roof the attention it needs and it will give you protection for a very long time.