When choosing a roof repair contractor step carefully because having your roof replaced or repaired is an investment that should only be done by a qualified professional. Too many people are skilled at talking faster than a dick and good enough to make it look like the roof has been repaired properly. But the mistake would have been yours for hiring the wrong crew in the first place.

Take the time to research a few contractors to increase your chances of hiring the right people. Check the roofing contractor's business address and phone number, their business license, and look at their Better Business Bureau rating. Ask for proof of insurance, whether they are licensed, bonded, and financially sound (a good roofing company will provide financial information about their business if you ask). A couple of other questions would be what kind of safety training the workers have received and if they can show you some recent reviews online of the work they've done.

What is covered by the umbrella guarantee?

Roofing warranties only cover materials, so ask what manufacturer they buy from and research that company. Installation methods, experience, and workmanship are all important factors, even if it's top-quality materials. Chances are pretty good that the roofing material will last if the installer company is reputable. So check online reviews, their BBB ratings, what their website looks like, how quickly they provide proof of insurance, etc. Remember, you get what you pay for, so buyers beware if the price seems too good to be true. Trust your instincts when you talk about low pricing and try to weigh up the real cost and the end result. A 20-year warranty won't be of much use in 10 years if the roof starts leaking again and your contractor has closed his doors. By taking a few safety measures now, you can have peace of mind for many years to come.

Tips for roofing

Sometimes a little roof renovation will extend the life of your roof, for example, here are some problem areas to watch out for if you have a roofing problem. The areas around chimneys, skylights, and skylights are common problem areas where new cladding can fix a small leak. If you're doing extensive roof work, the contractor may mention the underlayment of ice and water gutters. This material is applied under the shingles directly to the roof sheathing. It creates a watertight seal that protects the roof from ice dams and water puddles caused by wind-driven rain and snow.

It's a good idea to inspect the roof every couple of years or so when the weather is good. Take out a good ladder and check for obvious signs of problems. In many cases, you can spot a potential problem before it gets out of hand, saving you thousands in roof renovation costs. Unnoticeable signs such as loose or damaged roof sheathing, moss or algae, and visible wear around chimneys, pipes, and other penetrations will alert you to a pending problem.

Minor roof repairs
 

Sometimes certain areas of your roof wear out before others, so if you've been watching your roof carefully, you can extend its life with a simple roof renovation. A reputable roofing company will be adept at spotting where the problem areas are, and should be fairly accurate in pricing materials and labor. In some cases, you can install a second layer of roofing, but it won't last as long as a full roof replacement, so if you don't plan to live in it for long, that may be an option.