The Do's and Don'ts of Roofing

When it comes to roofing, there are some do's and don'ts to remember. Here are some things to think about.

Roofing is an important job when it comes to your home. Even though it's not easy to see it unless you climb up there, rest assured that it's doing its job if you are doing yours. Your job, as a homeowner is to properly maintain it and fix whatever goes wrong. If you don't do your part, it certainly won't be able to do its part in protecting all structural components of your house. Here are some do's and don'ts to remember when it comes to your roof:

Do's for roofs:

- Do perform regular inspections by climbing up there with a ladder and broom. Sweep all the debris off that has blown up there such as twigs, branches and dried leaves.

- Do choose a licensed contractor when it's time to put a new layer on or repair the surface. Call the Board of Contractors to see if they are in good standing or if there are unresolved complaints against them.

- Do get all quotes for repairs in writing. Verbal contracts won't hold water and neither will your roof.

- Do choose the right material. If you are planning to re-roof, research materials thoroughly. There are many factors to consider including price, longevity of the product, maintenance, and whether your home's structure can hold up the weight.

- Do get word-of-mouth references. Ask neighbors who have relatively new roofs about their installers. Inquire about whether they're satisfied with their remodeling results and whether they'd hire the roofers again. Word-of-mouth is a stellar way of obtaining the names of competent pros.

Don'ts for roofs:

- Don't forget to check the rain gutters. These get clogged with leaves and won't be able to allow runoff from the storms.

- Don't put too many layers over the top of existing roofing. Two layers are acceptable; three might work but four is a no-no. Too much weight will lead to collapse.

- Don't pay everything up front. When you hire a roofer, it's customary to pay a certain amount up front and the remainder when the job is completed. If you pay everything up front, you may never actually get your project finished as a contractor won't have as much incentive to complete it.

- Don't wait till the rainy season. If you know your house needs a new layer of shingles or some repairs performed, don't put it off till the rainy season. If you figure you have X number of months till the rain arrives, you may find yourself in the back of a long line behind the other procrastinators. Get it done in an off season and you'll get prompter service.

Roofing is an integral part of a house's structure. It protects everything and everyone beneath it. In order for it to do its job, you must not fail to do yours. Remember to inspect it every few months or after a wind storm; hire a competent and licensed roofer; choose the right materials; clean out the rain gutters and don't put it off till the rainy season.

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