A regular maintenance schedule for your roof is an investment in the longevity of the roofing structure and it will help prevent serious damage in the future. In the long run, roof maintenance saves you a ton of money and prevents headaches. Unfortunately, the advantages of preventative roof maintenance are rarely known or explained to homeowners, leading to a false sense of security. Roof inspections are usually free, and they help to prevent severe roof damage and material loss. These myths and misconceptions usually end up costing homeowners thousands in the long tun, read on.
It Doesn’t Matter Which Roofing Company Fixes My Roof After a Storm
When we have blown off shingles, leaks, or general storm damage, it is natural to panic and call/hire the first roofer willing to address the issue you are facing immediately. Unfortunately, this “panic purchase” keeps many bad roofers in business and often brings about long lasting negative consequences. Before you hire a roofing contractor, it is important to check online reviews, ensure they are licensed (MA HIC & MA CSL are required for roofing work), and finally ensure they have workers comp and liability naming your town or yourself as the certificate holder. This is the bare minimum you should look for to allow anyone on your roof, where they could end up getting seriously hurt if an accident happens.
All Roof Shingles Are the Same. Just Buy the Cheapest
Roofing materials, like most things today, have made strides in quality, durability, and in their ability to withstand harsh conditions. While most people believe a roofing shingle is a roofing shingle, this actually couldn’t be further from the truth. A good roofer will evaluate your home’s design, ventilation needs, and the conditions that your roof will face, and then provide a recommendation. If your home is in a windy area and has a flatter roof, you may benefit from using a heavier shingle that provide added protection and sealing at the nailing area. Conversely, a roof with a high pitch and limited wind may be better off with a lighter shingle that does not delaminate as easily. The shingle is only as good as the installer, for that reason we always recommend ensuring your roofer is certified by the company that manufactures the shingle they are installing.
I Can Fix My Own Roof
Depending on the roof problem, homeowners may be able to fix the immediate problem and feel money has been saved. Unfortunately, most roofing problems have underlying causes and fixing the failure point doesn’t necessarily solve the underlying problem. A professional roofer will be able to diagnose your problem and provide you a permanent solution or explain your options if a permanent solution won’t be available. Diagnosing roofing issues takes expertise and is often a dangerous task, and should not be considered a repair for a “handy person”, whether it is the homeowner or a hired handy person.
Conclusion
Property owners and managers must be aware of these common misconceptions in the roofing industry, especially when hiring roofing contractors. When in doubt, always consult a professional. When you hire a roofing contractor for roof replacements, installations, repair, or inspections, always make sure they are licensed, insured, and preferably certified. You can rely on GN Exteriors for superior roofing services. We offer cost-effective roofing solutions that meet our clients’ needs and exceed their expectations. We are happy to handle all your roofing needs with the help of our team of certified roofing specialists. Please feel free to contact us for a consultation.
