How A Roofer Can Prepare Your Home For Winter Weather
Spring and summer storms have come and gone, and winter is rapidly approaching with its frosty temperatures, ice and rough weather. You've checked your furnace, changed your air filters, given your car a check-up, and checked the water heater. Did you remember to call your roofing contractor and check the roof on your home? Problems with this vital area of your house can not only cause leaks but also affect the overall energy efficiency of the structure.
Finding a qualified roofing professional can be confusing, as there are thousands of companies competing for your business. The first thing you should do is ask your friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations. They can usually give you an idea of their own experiences. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints against a specific company. Most roofing professionals will come to your home to give you a quote on the work that needs to be done, and some will even do so for free. There are also an increasing numbers of companies who specialize in "green roofing," options that are more environmentally friendly. Green roofing can be as complex as an entire living roof covered in vegetation, or as simple as energy-efficient and recyclable metal roofing. Some companies also offer solar metal roofing, which combines solar panels with metal roofing elements.
When you sit down with your roofers to get a quote, it is important to ask questions about their qualifications, how much work they have done in the past, what materials they use, if they are licensed and bonded, and if they use sub-contractors to complete the job. Also ask for references and follow up with them. You should receive a quote on paper with any exceptions, pricing, and fine print listed. You do not have to agree to a contract right away. Getting several quotes can save you time and money. Be sure to mention your budget up-front and have the professional list any extra charges that may come up.
Most roofing professionals will give you a time frame to complete the work along with your quote. These are not always exact, but will give you a good idea of how long the project will take. They will also tell you what hours they will be working on your home, and can often adjust their hours for your convenience. Weather can play a large part in the completion of your roof, so adjustments may be necessary due to inclement conditions.
Licensing requirements vary by state and can be found on your home government's Internet page. Bonding refers to a surety or promise made by a company that the project will be completed by the professional, and is extra insurance in case any problems should arise. It is vital that your roofer be bonded, insured, and licensed. Going with the lowest bidder, often a professional who does not have a license or a bond, is a risk that you do not need to take.
With a little research and patience, you can find a professional roofer to help repair or replace your roof; they'll let you sleep well at night, assured that your home will be energy-efficient and beautiful for years to come.
Finding a qualified roofing professional can be confusing, as there are thousands of companies competing for your business. The first thing you should do is ask your friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations. They can usually give you an idea of their own experiences. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints against a specific company. Most roofing professionals will come to your home to give you a quote on the work that needs to be done, and some will even do so for free. There are also an increasing numbers of companies who specialize in "green roofing," options that are more environmentally friendly. Green roofing can be as complex as an entire living roof covered in vegetation, or as simple as energy-efficient and recyclable metal roofing. Some companies also offer solar metal roofing, which combines solar panels with metal roofing elements.
When you sit down with your roofers to get a quote, it is important to ask questions about their qualifications, how much work they have done in the past, what materials they use, if they are licensed and bonded, and if they use sub-contractors to complete the job. Also ask for references and follow up with them. You should receive a quote on paper with any exceptions, pricing, and fine print listed. You do not have to agree to a contract right away. Getting several quotes can save you time and money. Be sure to mention your budget up-front and have the professional list any extra charges that may come up.
Most roofing professionals will give you a time frame to complete the work along with your quote. These are not always exact, but will give you a good idea of how long the project will take. They will also tell you what hours they will be working on your home, and can often adjust their hours for your convenience. Weather can play a large part in the completion of your roof, so adjustments may be necessary due to inclement conditions.
Licensing requirements vary by state and can be found on your home government's Internet page. Bonding refers to a surety or promise made by a company that the project will be completed by the professional, and is extra insurance in case any problems should arise. It is vital that your roofer be bonded, insured, and licensed. Going with the lowest bidder, often a professional who does not have a license or a bond, is a risk that you do not need to take.
With a little research and patience, you can find a professional roofer to help repair or replace your roof; they'll let you sleep well at night, assured that your home will be energy-efficient and beautiful for years to come.
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