A home’s roof is one of its most vital parts. In addition to protecting you from the elements, it keeps your home’s interior dry and safe. As your roof ages, it may become inefficient, worn, or outdated. And since roof replacements are costly (as much as $8,000), roof repairs and regular maintenance are easier on your wallet.
This is where a professional roof repair contractor can help you. Roofing contractors oversee roof installation from beginning to end. They are like a general contractor who conducts a building project from the ground up. In addition, they help you through the permits and inspection stages.
In this article, we will discuss the different professional roofing services available. These include roof installation, repair, inspections, and other exterior services. We’ll also give you tips on finding a trustworthy roofing contractor to handle your repair or maintenance needs.
Different Types of Roofing Services
Despite not spending much time thinking about it, your roof is an important part of your home and needs regular maintenance. Should you ever experience roof damage or need a new roof installed for your house, here are some of the services offered by contractors:
Roof Installation
Investing in a new roof is one of the best ways to protect an older or unmaintained home. In addition to adding value to your home, a new roof protects you and your family from the elements. If roof repair isn’t an option, consider a new roof installation as soon as possible.
Various roofing options, such as asphalt shingles, wood shakes, and metal roofs, are available. Steel roofing, for example, is known for its durability and energy efficiency, while asphalt shingles are an affordable and popular option.
A new roof installation is not a simple DIY project. It requires a professional roofing contractor’s expertise, knowledge, and tools. By hiring an experienced roofer, you will have a properly installed, code-compliant roof. Moreover, the roofer can also handle all the necessary permits and inspections.
Roof Repair
A roof repair is a serious matter. Damaged or worn roofs can cause leaks, mold, and structural problems. This is why it’s important to take care of any roof problems as soon as they arise.
Although it may be tempting to fix your roof independently, hiring a professional is always best. A professional can properly diagnose and repair any issue with your roof. This is because they have the necessary knowledge, experience, and equipment. Additionally, they can ensure that any needed permits have been obtained and that your roof is up to code.
When you hire a professional roofer, you are guaranteed to get the job done correctly and receive expert advice. Furthermore, a professional contractor can identify other problems before they become costly.
Roof Inspections
Roof inspections are essential for preserving the integrity of your roof. A regular inspection allows potential problems to be detected before they become more serious.
It involves a professional roofing contractor thoroughly inspecting your roof. The contractor will check your roof for damaged shingles, cracked tiles, and other integrity issues. In addition, they will make sure the roof has proper ventilation. This is essential to maintaining a healthy and energy-efficient roof.
Roof Maintenance
Regular roof maintenance is essential to protect your home from the elements and extend its life. Maintaining a roof can prevent leaks, damage, and costly repairs. Besides preventing damage, professional roofers can help you clear dirt, moss, and other debris from your roof. These can cause damage and discoloration.
Emergency Roofing Services
An emergency roofing situation can arise at any time. Thus, a professional roofing company can address it quickly and efficiently. An emergency roofing service may include:
- Emergency repairs – Contractors often accept urgent repairs that must be done as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home. It could be a leak, missing or damaged shingles, or other structural damage requiring immediate attention.
- Storm damage – A contractor can assess and repair the damage if a storm has damaged your roof, such as high winds, hail, or branches falling from trees. For example, your roof may suffer structural damage if high winds cause shingles to loosen, tear off, or come loose. High winds can also damage flashing and sealants, resulting in leaks and water damage.
- Tarping – Temporary tarping, also related to storms, prevents water from entering your home or building. The contractor covers the damaged area of your roof with a waterproof tarp. Remember that temporary tarping isn’t a permanent solution but only a stop-gap solution while they repair your roof.
Other Exterior Services
A professional roofing company can provide many other services besides roofing. These include gutter cleaning, gutter repair, siding installation, and replacement.
These companies can also offer window installation and replacement services.
How to Choose a Good Roofing Contractor
Make sure you have bids from a few roofing contractors before picking one. Depending on your needs, choose a reasonable, middle-of-the-road price. You can also choose a contractor with the best availability and lowest price. If you have the right budget, roofing contractors with many years of experience might be your best choice.
Regardless of your bid, ensure that the roofer has the required qualifications.
If you know what type of roofing you want, you’ll be able to narrow your local contractor choices. For example, most roofers can install and repair asphalt shingles. However, few have experience with cedar shakes, clay tiles, and natural slate. Finding specialists familiar with specific styles in rural areas, such as solar shingles or green roofs, may be challenging.
Be wary of door-to-door bids or roofers visiting neighborhoods recently hit by high winds or storms. This practice can be predatory. If local roofers approach you about repairing or replacing your roof, ensure they have a license, insurance, and references.
