The roofing industry has changed quite a lot over the years. These days, homeowners are rarely opting for the standard, 3-tab shingles that were so popular a few decades ago. Instead, they are going with architectural shingles, and in some cases, with even more eco-friendly options like green roofing or slate. Whether you're shopping around for a new roof or are thinking of having repairs made to your current roof, it pays to be educated. Learn the basics on this blog, where we discuss roofing in the modern world. We explore various roofing materials, roofing techniques, and how to find the right roofer.
When your asphalt shingle roof starts to look old, it's time to call a roofing company before the shingles fall off, the deck sags, or your home has water damage. Once an asphalt roof is old and loses its granules, the aging process escalates because there are no granules to protect the shingles.
A roofer can inspect your roof and give you an estimate for the cost of a roof replacement so you can start making plans to schedule the work. Here are some things you and the roofing company may need to do before work begins.
Go Over The Choices In Roofing Materials
If your asphalt shingle roof is old, it may have been installed before newer types of shingles came on the market. You'll want the roofing company to inform you about the options you have in residential roofing.
The choice you make could depend on your budget since roofing materials come in all price ranges. However, you might want to upgrade to more attractive shingles or shingles that are more durable. You may even want to switch to metal or tile roofing.
Ask Who Gets And Pays For The Permit
You may need a permit to put on a new roof. Your roofing company may get the permit for you. A permit is attached to your property records and can be seen by your insurance company and future home buyers. It's important to follow the law and obtain a permit or you might have to pay a fine.
Discuss The Details Of The Contract
The contract you sign has all the details you need to know about getting your new roof. The contract lists all the supplies you're paying for, the estimated start and finish date, and the payment schedule. This lets you know upfront how the roofing job will proceed so you know what to expect.
You might need to pay a deposit when you sign the contract so materials for your roof can be ordered. You might make another payment halfway through the job and the final payment when the job is complete.
Talk About Roof Maintenance
A new roof is a big expense, so you want to protect your investment with regular maintenance. Ask your roofer for advice on how to care for your roof. You might want to know how often to hire a roofer to do a roof inspection, what to do when you see loose shingles, and what to look for after a storm. You'll want to know what repairs you can make yourself and when you need to hire a roofer so you don't void your warranty.
For more information, contact a roofing company near you.