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A little knowledge about the fundamentals of roofing will allow you to choose a competent contractor to install your home's new roof. Read on and learn some great tips with regards to roofing choices you are going to need to make. Knowing what you are doing can prevent costly errors.

Wear rubber boots when you climb onto your roof. Regardless of the weather, rubber-soled shoes are a necessity for keeping your footing on the roof. Working on a roof is always a dangerous proposition. It is easy to slip and fall while balancing on high, slanted rooftops, so take your safety very seriously.

Faulty shingles are the most common cause of a leaking roof, but structural problems can also be to blame. Water could be seeping in from somewhere else, such as dry-rotted siding or gaps along windows or doors. You need to be checking all entry points to make sure there is no problem.

When considering the materials for your roof, consider the climate in which you live. Clay roofing is a great material if the area that you live in has a dry climate; it can help maintain a comfortable temperature inside the house. Clay roof tiles on a house in a rainy climate will result in the roof deteriorating rather quickly. If you're not sure about this, then don't be afraid to ask.

Prior to the removal of your old roof, make sure your lawn is cut short. This way, if nails fall on the ground, they'll be much easier to find. If he has a magnetic tool for finding nails, it will work best with the short grass.

It is very important that roofers have insurance. If you hire a contractor who is not properly insured, you will be responsible for any damage they cause. Don't just speak with the person doing the job to see if they have the insurance, get documentation that they do and go over it carefully.

roofer brookline ma Make sure that the roofing contractor you hire is licensed. Never take a roofer's word as the gospel truth. Find the proper authorities to make sure rules are being followed.

Make sure that the roofing contractor you hire is licensed. If you're unsure of what that is exactly, don't just assume everything is okay because the contractors says it is. Contact your local building department and ask them what is needed.

Get several quotes before you pick a contractor to replace or repair the roof. Understand that not all contractors are honest. Some of them will attempt to weasel money out of you. It's important to compare prices and companies before choosing one to ensure you get good work at a good price.

roofing contractors cambridge ma The age of your roof often dictates whether or not you replace it. Most roofs only have twenty years or so before they must be replaced. If your existing roof was put directly into an older one, you really do need to replace it.

If you're having a custom roof installed, ask the contractor if they have experience doing what you want done. If they haven't, choose someone else. When it comes to roofs, you don't want to take risks.

Although the topic of roofing is a very complex one, you shouldn't allow this to intimidate you. This advice can help you with a lot of issues. No matter if you keep learning or rely on existing material, you will be all set. Don't forget what you've learned here!