Most people don’t know very much about roofing. Take the time to be a responsible homeowner and educate yourself about your home. A damaged roof can lead to numerous, costly repairs to your entire home. This article will get you started with the basics of home roofing and roofing repairs.
Make sure to inspect your roof annually. Spring and winter are times when damage is prevalent. With this in mind, you should monitor the state of your roof frequently during these times.
If you find out that your roof is leaking when the weather is bad, wait until things settle down before doing any repairs. It’s too dangerous to work on a wet and slippery roof. Wait until it stops raining and the roof is completely dry before attempting to repair it.
While leaks sometimes can be caused by shingles that are faulty, be sure you look at your roof’s foundation too. If you have dry rot on your home’s sides, it can allow water to get into your home. Just checking the roof is not enough. Consider all the other possible places that water can get in so that you end the problem completely.
When roofing, think about safety first. If it is raining outside and you attempt to make roof repairs, you may end up getting injured or worse. Keep a bucket underneath any leaks until you have improved weather and then go inspect your roof.
If you’re worried about a leaky roof, spray it with a garden hose. Doing so will help you figure out if you have a leak and if you do, where it is coming from. It doesn’t cost as much as hiring a professional, so give it a try.
Architectural shingles are another great alternative roofing material. Not only do they look better than normal shingles, they also last longer. Using this type of shingle gives your home added curb appeal. It’s definitely something to consider if you plan to list your home for sale.
If parts of your roof aren’t visible from ground level or from a ladder, you had best climb up there to inspect them after serious storms with lots of wind. It doesn’t take many dislodged shingles to cause serious water intrusion problems, and the sooner you detect and repair roof damage, the better. Give it a quick look-over every time, but remember to do so safely.
Ask any questions you have before letting a contractor work on your roof. You do not want to leave a question unasked and have the issue get out of hand down the road. If a contractor is not willing to answer your question, you should not work with them anyway.
Get multiple quotes when hiring help. Some in the roofing business may be looking to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers. To avoid becoming the victim of shoddy work or someone who will rip you off, make sure you compare fair market prices and know what you’re getting into first.
Whenever your roof is being repaired, or an installation is taking place, be sure and inspect the materials thoroughly. Shingles are susceptible to cracking when they are nailed down, which could lead to serious problems in the future. Keep your eyes peeled during the entire installation.
Find out whether the roofer you want to hire is available to do yearly maintenance on the roof. No matter the contractor’s skill level, things are certain to arise, especially in extreme climates. Try getting your contractor to inspect your roof once a year to make sure there are no damages.
Most new homeowners don’t give their roof much thought until it causes problems. With any luck, you now know much more about roofing and can confidently tackle any roofing task that comes your way. You keep your home and your family safe by making certain your roof is always in good condition.
There are a lot more resources you need to check. Though this article has given you useful information, you need to continue to learn more. Always keep an eye out for great opportunities or new information to get an edge.
