TIP! If your shingles are looking shabby, do not hesitate to replace them. It may seem like a great idea to wait a while to fix a problem, but damage will worsen as time passes.

Roof maintenance, and necessary repairs, are important issues for everyone who owns a home. The problem is that everyone does not understand the best way to care for a roof. If you take advantage of the tips below, you’ll be able to keep your roof in good shape for a long time.

TIP! Never attempt to fix a roof when it is raining, snowing, or conditions are icy. You are far more likely to sustain an injury–or worse.

When fixing a leak, you must finish the job right to begin with. You need to ensure that the entire structure of your roof is sound. Look over all of your roof; there may be more problem areas than you first suspected.

TIP! Wearing rubber boots whenever walking on top of your roof is necessary. Even if it’s dry and sunny out, you need this type of footwear to maintain a good grip.

When you hire roofing contractors, you need to check into their references and reputation. Call the clients and ask them about their experience. You need to also look at some of the addresses in person. Look at the work done and judge it for yourself.

TIP! Don’t hesitate to interrogate a would-be contractor before signing anything. One important question to ask is the quantity of nails they will put in each shingle.

There are several important questions that one should ask a roofing contractor prior to the contract signing. For example, see how many nails they’re going to be putting into the shingles. Typically, three nails will not work. Ask them about the methods they use and analyze their answer. If they do not, continue looking.

TIP! Don’t use remedies that only work for short periods of time when dealing with roof repairs. Sure, you’ll spend less money up front.

If you have an appointment with a roofer, but he or she is not coming for a couple of days, have a temporary solution in place. You could purchase heavy grade plastic and put it over the leaking area and fasten with nails. This isn’t the best way to handle leaks, but it makes for a good short term solution.

TIP! Check roofing materials before putting new shingles up. Installation issues like crooked nails or cracked shingles are a major source of leaks.

You should avoid going up on the roof yourself and looking for any damage. If you have issues, try hiring a roofing contractor to stop by and look at the spots. You definitely don’t want to be walking on the roof unsuspecting as it caves in on you.

TIP! If you wish to install a brand new, environmentally-friendly roof, don’t overlook using a living roof. Living roofs have a layer of soil where plants can grow.

Ask your potential contractor about the warranty that they provide. You want one that is about 3 to 5 years, and longer is preferable. The warranty should cover defective materials, as well as workmanship, and they should provide you with copies of any relevant manufacturer warranties.

TIP! If you think your roof might have a leak, try using a garden hose to spray it down. This will confirm the location of the leak, if there is one.

What warranty does your roofer offer? Some companies will have better deals than others. On top of that, be sure to get the warranty and the estimate in writing, so you will have this information on hand. That way, there cannot be any disagreement about the terms later on.

TIP! All reputable contractors should be licensed and insured and be happy to show you proof of both. If they can’t, don’t hire them.

Most homeowners realize the profound importance of a strong, weatherproof roof. Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to deal with roofing issues. Luckily, this article has offered up some sound advice to help any homeowner achieve the perfect roof.