TIP! Inspect your roof at least once yearly. Typically, roofs suffer the most damage during winter and spring.

Nobody would ever deny the essential nature of the roof when it comes to the quality and integrity of a home’s structure. Most homeowners don’t know much about the subject of roofing. This article will help introduce you to the topic.

TIP! Sometimes a leak is the result of a faulty shingle, but other times, there may be an issue with your roof’s foundation. If you notice dry root on the sides, then water has a chance to enter.

Whenever you’re working on your roof, you must take steps to secure yourself safely. It’s important to remember this because it is quite easy to slip and fall. Many people are hurt or killed by falling off roofs every year.

TIP! Due diligence is essential when seeking to hire a roofing contractor. Hiring a bargain contractor is often a good way to lose money that could have been used to make quality repairs.

Co-workers, friends, and family should be the first resources for picking a contractor. Make sure you question them on a contractor’s costs, service level, and craftsmanship. Also, find out whether the contractor cleaned when the job was finished and whether a warranty was provided.

TIP! You should avoid going up on the roof yourself and looking for any damage. Hire a professional to inspect your roof if you think some areas are damaged.

Insurance is a must when it comes to roofing. If you hire a contractor without insurance, you are going to have to pay for any damage that might occur. You should ask your contractor to give you a copy of their policy and proof of insurance.

TIP! Whenever you narrow down your list of contractors, ask each one their provided warranties. You want a warranty of at least three years, but the longer the warranty the better.

Contractors who have their own workers are often a more inexpensive option than those who work alone. A roofing team can accomplish a job quicker and this usually ends up with a much cheaper final product. If you do hire a solo roofer, make sure you aren’t paying an outrageous cost for labor.

TIP! Make sure your roofer has credentials, and make sure thy are current. Nearly every state insists that roofers be properly licensed, so inspect your contractor’s paperwork to ensure that they are fully compliant.

Ask roofing contractors about the type of warranty they have. You may find a better warranty with another company. Make sure you get any warranty in writing (and the estimate too). You’ll need that if the time arises where there is an issue. This will ensure there shouldn’t be any disagreements about any of the terms of the estimate or warranty later on.

TIP! Consider hiring a contractor who manages a team of workers, as opposed to an individual. Roofers working well as a team can finish more quickly at lower cost.

When choosing a roofing contractor, consider how long they have been in business. If the company has been in business for quite some time then they probably are able to keep people happy. A roofer with no track record is pretty suspicious; be aware that such contractors may intend to take advantage of you.

TIP! The age of your roof is a good indication of whether it needs replacing or not. Usually, roofs have a lifespan of 20 years before they need replacing.

Make sure your roof stays intact as the years go on by making sure it is clear of sticks, leaves and debris. Buildup of these materials can cause water to remain. When water stagnates, the materials that make up your roof can rot, making you susceptible to leaks.

TIP! You should never pay a contractor the full price upfront. A common scam is to collect your money beforehand, and then neglect doing any actual work.

When you’re looking for a roofer, you shouldn’t ignore the small things. If the person calls when needed and arrives punctually, you most likely have found a good contractor. Also, they are probably professional if they provide you with a typed bid. Your roofing contractor should have both qualities.

TIP! Check with Better Business Bureau if the roofer you are considering has anything on record. This can help you see whether customers have filed complaints with your prospective contractors.

A home’s roof is its first line of defense in protecting the interior from damaging weather. However, many homeowners do not know about proper roof maintenance. Everything preceding this should serve homeowners well as they seek to learn more about roofing.