Your roof should be viewed as your home's first line of defense when it comes to the elements. Therefore, proper maintenance is essential. Too often homeowners neglect their roofs until it is too late. Make sure your home's roof stays strong by applying the tips that follow.
Don't mess around with your roof if the weather is inclement. Not only does it make it more dangerous for you to go up there, but it can also ruin the work you're attempting to do. Wait for nice weather, both temperature and storm-wise, and then take advantage of the beautiful day.
One of the biggest foes of your roof is ice. When gutters back up and freeze up, they can push the shingles and even wood up off the top of your house. Once that ice begins to melt, it will leak inside and rot out your home. Watch for ice build up and fix the problem quickly.
Don't try to repair your roof if it's snowy, icy, or raining. When your roof is slippery or wet, you might fall and hurt yourself or, in extreme cases, be killed. If you are doing your roof yourself, work on it when it is sunny and dry outside.
When installing a new boot on any pipes which leave your roof, make sure they fit as snug as a bug in a rug. If they're even slightly loose, water can seep inside of them, causing you a headache you don't need. Choose the right size to spare yourself from problems down the road.
Your grass should be cut before you have someone come over and remove your roof. It's not uncommon for nails and other debris to land in the grass during construction. Shorter grass allows you to locate any errant nails. If your contractor brings a magnetic nail finder, short grass will also help this tool work more efficiently.
While giving a deposit to your roofer is normal, you shouldn't pay for the job itself until it's been completed. The rule of thumb is that the deposit shouldn't be more than 25% of the roofer's total estimate for the job. The roofer needs money in advance for materials, but they don't need to be paid for labor that hasn't been done.
Only hire an experienced contractor. Ask your neighbors, friends and family about their experiences with roofers. It's really important to do so. You want to take every precaution to make sure you don't get shoddy workmanship.
Avoid ice build-up on your roof in the winter time. This potentially devastating situation occurs when snow begins to melt close to the interior lining of your home, then freezes, creating a seal. That ice can remain for a long period of time with low temperatures and create leaks and warping. Proper ventilation and insulation should remedy the problem.
As mentioned before, the roofing services is what keeps your belongings and loved ones safe and dry. Be sure and use the tips and tricks mentioned above so that you and your loved ones remain safe throughout the year. You will not be sorry you did.
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