TIP! If you find out that your roof is leaking when the weather is bad, wait until things settle down before doing any repairs. Fixing a leak isn’t easy, but it is even more difficult in the rain as you might slip.

Your house starts with the foundation and ends with the roof. Obviously, it’s much more than that; it’s really a key to your comfort and safety. If you are a homeowner, you know how important it is to care for your roof. Read the following advice to learn what you can do to keep your roof in proper shape.

TIP! Leaks come from having damaged shingles, but you should also inspect your roof’s foundation. If your home’s sides are dry rotted, water may enter these areas.

Each year, take a long, hard look at your roof. Spring rains and winter storms are especially hard on your roof. Most damages occur during these months. Keep an eye out during these times.

TIP! Don’t try to fix your roof during wet weather. Rain, sleet, and snow can cause you to fall, which can seriously injure or even kill you.

When you’re thinking of roofing, you should always be aware of what the climate is like. If your climate is dry, clay roofs are an excellent option because of their ability to cool a house. In rainy climates, a clay roof can deteriorate quickly. As always, if you aren’t sure, then you should ask.

TIP! Make sure that you fix your leak right the first time. Do not stop after fixing one small area.

Always be sure that you’re not paying for the whole project before it’s all done. Although paying approximately 25% of the cost upfront may be necessary, avoid paying more than this amount. Never pay before the work is done in full or they could take off with your money.

TIP! Wear shoes with rubber soles whenever you need to get on top of your roof. Although the weather may be perfect, your roof is still very slippery; therefore, you need these boots to ensure you have the best grip on your roof.

A contractor who hires employees is usually cheaper and more efficient than a contractor who works alone. More workers means the job will be completed quicker, which means lower costs. If someone is doing it alone, your price may be higher.

Living Roof

TIP! Don’t use remedies that are short-term. While it may seem like a cheaper choice, it can actually result in more damage in the future, costing you a whole lot more money.

If you wish to install a brand new, environmentally-friendly roof, don’t overlook using a living roof. A living roof provides you with space to plant. You must have a flat roof for this design and there are some climate considerations, but a living roof may also provide insulation.

TIP! Once you have your potential contractors list narrowed down, ask each what sort of warranties they provide. Most roofers offer a warranty on their work for up to five years.

Don’t cut corners when you are purchasing roofing materials. Even if cheap materials are easily available to you, the cost of repairing them may mean you end up actually paying much more. You do get what you pay for and it’s not worth the risk when it comes to the roof over your head.

TIP! Inspect your roofing materials prior to putting up new shingles. Too short or too long nails or weak shingles can lead to leaks.

It’s worth thinking about installing architectural shingles the next time you replace your roof. Architectural shingles look much better than regular ones and will last longer. These shingles are desired by those looking to purchase a home, so when you sell your home, it will be worth more.

TIP! A simple way to find out if a suspicious spot on your roof is leaking would be to spray the area well with your garden hose. This will not only help you determine whether or not there is a leak, but also where that leak is located.

Do not pay upfront for the services a roofer provides. A common trick that sheisty contractors use is to get the payment in full and then never return to do any of the work. You should be giving them a certain amount before they begin and give them the rest once the job is completed and you are pleased.

TIP! You should never pay in full for your roof before the work is completed. Scammers will ask for money up front and then never come back.

Keeping your roof in good shape is a big part of being a responsible homeowner. There are lots of maintenance jobs that can be deferred, but roofing isn’t one of them. Follow the tips presented here to take good care of your roof and avoid further maintenance problems.