Roofs can last a long time, however, even with the best care, there comes a time when you need either to repair or replace it. Knowing which option is better is important. Many factors will play a part in the decision. Firstly, you may see signs of damage or even experience some leaks indicating that your roof is in need of attention. However, the ultimate decision is best made by someone with experience assessing and working on roofs.
Some signs that you should look for before considering outside help include:
- Looking for missing or damaged shingles or tiles
- The shingles are starting to curl
- Look for watermarks and other signs of moisture such as mold, fungus, and rot
- Check gutters for pieces of broken shingle or other roofing material
- Ice dams throughout winter
The First Step: Hire a Roofing ContractorThis is a multi-step process in its own right. With any major home repair project, the first step starts with the contractor you hire. You should get at least three quotes from local roofing contractors before settling on the one you will ultimately hire.
The roofing contractor you hire will not only be able to advise you on whether a reroof or repair is necessary but will also help you decide on reroofing over the existing material or removing it. So you really need someone like Michael Whalen who has roughly 30 years of roofing experience. Apart from the cost, during this first stage, you may find that it is difficult to find shingles that match the existing roof.
The Next Step: Scheduling
Next, you need to get a schedule indicating how long the job will take. You will also need to know what steps will be taken, if any, to protect your furniture. This is also a good time to make sure you have the necessary permits in place if they are required for the specific job that will be done. Waiting on a permit can put a serious damper on the entire project.
Roof Inspections
It is a good idea to check your roof at least twice per year. In fact, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends checking your roof at the start of spring and at the start of fall. We will make a decision not only based on the condition of the existing roof but also based on the material that was used for the original roof. Improvements in technology have led to the production of better quality roofing material at a lower cost. When done properly, your roof can last for decades, so you want to make sure you get the best material and installation or repair job possible.
