​How-To Tips For Keeping Your Roof In Perfect Shape

by Michael Ertem

Have you noticed any questionable areas on the roof of your home? Are there sections that look damaged? Are you unsure what exactly you're seeing when you look at your roof? You need to understand how to care for your roof. You will then be able to take stock of the condition of your roof, and decide how to address potential problem spots before the damage expands and becomes more expensive to repair.

Make sure that you replace your shingles when they become worn. You may be tempted to delay repairs, but you will only end up with worse damage. Fixing shingles immediately will actually save you bigger bucks down the line. Plus there will be a lot less headache. Prevention is key.

Make sure you're properly secured when you're on the roof. This is vital since you can easily lose balance if you have not been on a roof much. Thousands of people get killed or injured from falling off their roofs.

Always check the references of a contractor before hiring them. Follow up on the references, calling previous clients to find out if they are satisfied with the work. Visit some of the homes on the list. Take a quick drive and look at the work before making any decisions.

You never want to pay for everything upfront if it isn't necessary. Normally, you pay 25% or so to start the job. Never pay before the work is done in full or they could take off with your money.

When you seek a roofing professional, be sure to verify their skills. If you know anyone who has recently had their roof fixed, find out if they would recommend that contractor. Referrals can help you avoid getting an inferior roof installed, along with the cost and frustration of correcting the mistakes.

You should generally avoid walking around your roof seeking out areas that are damaged. If you know there is a problem, get a professional to visit and do an inspection. If you walk around on your roof, you could damage it further or injure yourself.

Make sure a roofing contractor has current, valid certifications. Nearly every state insists that roofers be properly licensed, so inspect your contractor's paperwork to ensure that they are fully compliant. They should also have liability insurance and a workers' compensation certificate.

The age of your roof is a good indication of whether it needs replacing or not. Roofs are generally warrantied for 20 years. Therefore, once your roof reaches this age, you need to replace it in order to prevent damage to your home.

If environmentally-friendly building is something that interests you, look into living roofs when you're in the market for a new roof. A living roof has layers of soil in which a plant or flowers can be grown. You can only do this on flat roofs, but it's great insulation.

With the above advice, you can become a better-informed homeowner that knows about roofing. A little education can go a long way, and you are now prepared to properly care for your roof. By taking care of your roof properly, your roof will continue to provide you protection for a very long time.