TIP! If you find a leak during a storm, wait until everything is dry before heading up to your roof. You could compromise your safety on a wet and slippery roof.

Maintenance is imperative to keep your roof clean and strong for its full lifespan. You should always maintain your roof as best as you can. Read on to find some of the things you should know about roofing.

TIP! When roofing, think about safety first. Don’t try to fix a leaking roof, for instance, while it is still storming outside.

If your roof is leaking in the rain, wait til it dries to fix it. Fixing a leak isn’t easy, but it is even more difficult in the rain as you might slip. When it’s dry you can fix it safely and properly.

TIP! You need to consider the climate when choosing a roof type. When you live in a dry climate, go for clay tile.

Never hesitate to replace your roof’s shingles. It may seem like a great idea to wait a while to fix a problem, but damage will worsen as time passes. Repairing shingles immediately will save cash for you and avoid you a headache. Prevention is key.

TIP! Make sure that you’re secured in the right way anytime you’re doing work on your roof. This is critical because losing your balance on a roof is not difficult if you do not have regular experience on roofs.

Don’t set step on your roof without properly securing your footing. 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.

TIP! Make sure your grass is cut before the roof on your home is removed. This helps make it easier to find nails that may hit the ground.

If you need a roofing contractor, reach out to family and friends to find out if they have any suggestions or experience to offer. 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. Inquire about post-job cleanup and about the warranty covering repairs in the future.

TIP! Never hire a roofing contractor who cannot provide references. Whenever you check out these references, follow up on them by contacting them so you can ask them their opinions on the contractor’s work.

When it comes to hiring a roofer, they must have insurance. When your contractor lacks insurance, all responsibility falls on you. Do not just ask if a prospective roofer has insurance, ask them to provide you with the documentation that their insurance is current and comprehensive as well.

TIP! If a salesman is pressuring you into a deal, turn him away. Once the salesman locks you into a contract, you and your home are at their mercy.

If you’re going to hire someone to work on your roof for you they need to have credentials that are up to date. The need for licensing is nearly universal. Ensure that all documentation is present and in date. Ask about their insurance and make sure they have a certificate that covers workers’ compensation.

TIP! Make sure you research any roofer before you hire them. You shouldn’t just go with the one who has the best ad or the lowest prices.

Before installing your new shingles, check them thoroughly for any damage or defects. Quite a few leaks happen due to improper installation, whether that be shingles that have cracked, nails that are too long, or something else. You need to be sure that your shingles are nice and strong and without cracks, and make sure you are using the right nails.

Living Roof

TIP! Unless you are required to, do not pay up front. A downpayment of about 25% is all that should be needed to get them started on the job.

If you are big into the environment, consider a living roof. A living roof provides you with planting grounds! While they are only ideal for flat roofs in the right climate, they are also a great source of insulation.

TIP! It is important that you ensure the roofing contractor you are considering provides high-quality work. Ask your friends and family for recommendations if you know they have hired someone in the past.

Keeping your roof in good shape goes a long way to keeping your home in tip-top shape. In many ways, the roof on your house is among the most important parts of your home. Really take these tips to heart, and make sure you follow through when you need to consider roofing again.