TIP! Before you hire a contractor for your roofing needs, make sure you do your homework. Never choose the cheapest option or the flashiest ad! Compare the various contractors in your area to get an idea of the common rate.

Your roof protects you from the elements. That’s why maintaining it is important. Homeowners may ignore their roof condition, which causes problems. This article will help you prevent that situation from ever happening.

TIP! After narrowing down your list of roofers, determine which one offers the best warranty. You need a warranty of at least three years, preferably five.

If it is raining and your roof is leaking, you shouldn’t attempt to climb up onto your roof and fix the problem until it has quit raining. Don’t jeopardize your safety by going up on a wet roof. You will need good, dry conditions to find the damage and repair it properly. When your roof has dried, you are then able to safely fix your roof.

TIP! Insurance is a must when it comes to roofing. If you hire a contractor who is not properly insured, you will be responsible for any damage they cause.

With roofing, it’s important to think about the weather. If you’re in a dry climate, a clay roof is a good way to keep your home cool. They deteriorate in rainy climates, though. If you have questions about this, you can inquire with a roofing professional.

TIP! 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.

Make sure that your grass is cut before the project begins. This will make things much easier to find if dropped. If your roofer has a magnetic nail locator, short grass will make things much easier.

TIP! Test any potential roof leaks with a garden hose. This might help you determine if you do indeed have a leak and also where the leak is located.

If you are selecting a roofing contractor, they need proper liability insurance. For starters, if a roofer has this type of insurance, you can be pretty sure that they are reliable. Secondly, in the event that something should happen to your house, their insurance should cover any damages.

TIP! Don’t cut corners when you are purchasing roofing materials. Even if you can get materials at cheaper prices, think about how much that will end up costing you if the materials you purchased get worn out in a record amount of time.

Never go up onto your roof to inspect for damage. This is a time where you must call a professional. You do not want to have the roof cave in under your feet.

TIP! Keep your roof and gutters clean. If debris builds up, it can cause water to stagnate.

After you trim the lost of possible companies, make inquiries about warranties. You want one that is about 3 to 5 years, and longer is preferable. The warranty ought to cover poor workmanship and defective materials and needs to incorporate any manufacturer’s warranties also.

TIP! When replacing the roof, consider shingles that are architectural. Not only do they look better than normal shingles, they also last longer.

The age of your roof is the main factor in determining whether you should replace it or not. Roofs are generally warrantied for 20 years. If your roof was installed on top of an old roof, you really have no choice once twenty years has passed but to replace it.

TIP! If you are seeking a more unique look to your roof, for example turrets, make sure your proposed roofer has the skill and experience in this area that you need. No experience? No way.

If you’re unable to find where a leak is coming from in your roof, don’t get upset. You’ll find it sooner or later, likely by using a hose and having a friend help. If you are dealing with a roof that’s on a large home, have another person on a cell phone to see if you’re getting water everywhere inside the house.

TIP! When you need to do maintenance on your roof, make sure you pay attention to the roof boots. These are rubber components that sit near the roof fence, and they have the potential to get too dry.

As previously noted, the roof of your home is vital to the protection of your family and property. Make sure you implement the advice given so you and your family stay safe. This will be worth the effort after some time has passed.