National Roof Week
How can you tell if your roof is in good condition or if it needs repairs? How do you know whether your roof needs to be repaired or replaced? How do you get rid of that moss growing on your roof? How can you find a good roofing contractor to work on your roof? These are all questions homeowners will have to face in regards to their roof. Because roofs are outside and above the home, most homeowners don't give much thought to their roof until a problem arises. In order to increase homeowners' awareness about roofing issues, the National Roofing Contractor's Association organized National Roofing week which this year falls on the week of July 6th through the 12th. There's no better time for homeowners to educate themselves about their roofs. In the spirit of National Roofing Week, here are a few things homeowners should know about roofing but usually don't.
Taking care of your roof
It's easy to tell when your lawn needs to be mowed or when your yard needs to be weeded. But your roof is more out-of-sight. It's something most homeowners overlook when doing some home maintenance and repair. Unfortunately, it's also one of the most important aspects of maintaining a home as the roof is the first line of defense between the home and the elements. Here are a few tips for taking care of your roof:
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It's important to normally inspect your roof. You can do an inspection yourself by using a ladder to get up on you roof or by looking at it from across the street with binoculars. Watch for loose, damaged, or missing shingles
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If you are uncomfortable getting on top of your roof, or if your roof has a steep slope or lots of valleys, it's a good idea to hire a roofing contractor to do the inspection. Not only do roofers have the proper training and equipment to be safe while on top of your roof, they also know additional things to look for that a homeowner might overlook. Many roofing companies offer free roof inspections
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Take care of roofing problems immediately. Putting them off until you can afford it will only make the repairs even less affordable
Choosing a roofing contractor
There is no shortage of roofing contractors. But not all of them are created equal. A reliable roofing company that has been operating in your community for decades is much better than hiring your friend's uncle who is somewhat of a handyman. Roofing work is highly technical and a job best left for professionals with proper training and equipment. Here are a few tips for hiring the right contractor for the job:
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Ask family and friends in your area who have had roofing work done for recommendations
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Check with your local Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce for a list of registered roofers
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Make sure they have the proper licenses and insurance required in your area
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Local lumberyards and distribution centers are a great source of information about local roofers
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Check the roofing company's website to see if they are certified by roofing manufacturers to install their roofs
Home improvement news brought to you by bartonroof.com
