No homeowner is excited at the prospect of a large roof repair project. It’s better to see to small problems before you’re overwhelmed. A little work now can save you a lot of time and money in the future. Read through the following tips if you want to learn what goes into proper roof maintenance.
Give your roof a good looking at least once each year. Typically, roofs suffer the most damage during winter and spring. With this in mind, you should monitor the state of your roof frequently during these times.
Consider your climate when roofing. Clay roofs are great for dry climates and can help to keep the house cool. Clay tiles that are on a home that is in a place where it rains all the time can deteriorate fast. If you do not know if these are ideal for you, ask a pro.
Mow the lawn prior to the removal of your old roof. This helps keep debris and falling nails in order. A magnetic nail finder also works better in short grass if your contractor uses one.
Use background references to choose your roofing contractor. When they give references, ask homeowners that they’ve worked for about how they felt, in terms of their quality and work value. You should check some of the addresses if you have the time. Walk or drive past the homes to check out the roof and, if homeowners are outside, stop to ask some questions.
You should always first ask family and friends regarding contractors when getting started. Find out whether he used good quality materials, did the work at a good price, and whether they were pleased overall with the job he did. Discuss how well the contractor cleaned up, and inquire as to what type of warranties were provided.
You want to hire a roofer with several years of experience. Ask your neighbors, friends and family about their experiences with roofers. Hiring the wrong contractor can cause untold damages and distress.
Inquire about warranties to narrow down your contractor list. You want one that is about 3 to 5 years, and longer is preferable. Ideally, look for warranties that cover any issues caused by human error and defective materials. Ask for copies of each warranty.
Ask your roofer about warranties on his work. Compare this when choosing a contractor. Obtain a written warranty with your estimate so that you’re in possession of all the proper information. This way, you won’t have any term disagreements when the job is finished.
You don’t want to forget the small things when you’re hiring a roofer. Make sure that your contractor is punctual at all times. A bid that is typed out on stationary could indicate that the person is also a professional. These qualities are important when it comes to a roofer.
If you want to minimize the amount of effort required of you as a homeowner, you can’t neglect your roof entirely. This is a path to larger issues in the future. Rather, use your new base of knowledge to maintain your roof well. You can save a lot of trouble and money if you take good care of yours.