Frank LaDue

Winter is coming. That means one thing; cold weather and snow are also well on their way. Ice storms or freezing conditions can easily and quickly cause ice buildup on your roof, particularly if it isn’t very well insulated or has poor ventilation. After a cold spell, you may notice ice dams building along the edges of your roof. Typically, the presence of large icicles is a good indicator of an ice dam. Ice dams are thick layers of ice that build up along the eaves and gutters, causing blockages and drainage issues.

While they may look like a beautiful winter wonderland scene, ice dams can cause some serious damage to your roof, such as:

• Leakage
• Damaged Roof Shingles
• Water Stains
• Mold or Fungi Growth
• Serious Structural Damage

To avoid any serious and expensive damage, it’s important to know how to effectively de-ice your roof in winter.

Tips for De-icing Your Roof

Use a Snow Rake or Ice Pick

You can try using a snow rake to scrape off snow buildup in a downward motion, but be very careful when doing so. Avoid standing on ladders or your roof in icy or slippery conditions at all costs. Snow rakes can also potentially cause damage if used incorrectly. If you are uncertain or unsure about how to use one, don’t just wing it,  it’s best to contact a professional roofer.

You could also use an icepick to carefully chip away at ice dams until they crack and fall away. Avoid hitting them too hard, you only want to make them break up enough to remove rather than picking so vigorously you damage the roofing below.

Use Warm Water

Beware, this is only a temporary DIY solution best deployed in a pinch or the absence of any other remedy. Simply use a spray bottle or a bucket to apply very warm water to the ice dams to allow them to melt and drain away. Avoid using warm water during or before another freezing spell, as the addition of more water that can freeze will only add to the problem. Ensure there is enough time for the warm water to fully melt and drain the ice and snow away before re-freezing if you are going to use this method.

Use De-icing Chemicals

There are several products available for purchase that de-ice your roof with chemicals. They work very well but can be a bit pricey, particularly if this is a solution you’re using multiple times throughout the season. Typically, liquid de-icers work the best, especially for very thick ice. It’s best to avoid any de-icing product that contains chemicals that can corrode your roofing material, such as sodium chloride or calcium chloride.

Heat Cables

Unfortunately, this method likely won’t help you mid-winter or solve an already present problem, as heat cables need to be installed before freezing temperatures. However, if installed before the winter weather sets in, heat cables are one of the most effective and least time-consuming solutions. These cables are installed in a zig-zag pattern along the roofline near the gutters to create channels for water to drain off and prevent ice build-up. They’ll certainly do their job and keep you from having to regularly apply DIY remedies.

Keeping a close eye on your roof during freezing temperatures should enable you to solve any serious issues as they arise. Make sure to regularly check your roof for leaks or signs of damage that may have been caused by ice build-up. Remember, as with most other roofing solutions, remaining diligent and fixing the small issues as they arise is a much more effective method than ignoring them and then having to pay for costly repairs.

If ice dams are causing a persistent issue for you and you’re tired of trekking up ladders with an icepick every winter, it’s best to call a professional roofer to help you solve your problem.

It’s almost that time of year again. Hanging holiday lights and watching your home glow is one of the greatest pleasures of the season. Almost everyone decorates their houses with magnificent holiday lights these days, with some people boasting impressive displays beyond our wildest imaginations.

However, while it may seem pretty simple to string some fairy lights from your roof, if not done properly, it can cause damage. That’s right, there’s a correct and proper way to hang holiday lights. Here are some tried and tested tips and tricks that will help your home look festive without leading to a leaky roof!

Make A Plan

Plan out exactly where you’re going to hang your lights before you start doing so. It’s important to have an idea in mind rather than just winging it. There might be some areas of your roof that are dangerous or precarious to get to, and those should be avoided. Try taking a photo of your home and using that as a map for where you want to hang your lights. Making a good plan will also prevent too many unnecessary trips up and down the ladder!

Prepare Your Home

Before getting started, you first and foremost need to know exactly what length of string lights you will need. You might require more than you think, as working around corners and windows can be deceptive. Measure the total length of the space you wish to decorate, including the roofline, gutters, windows, and doorframes, before going out to purchase your lights.

Pick The Best Lights

If you’re using old string lights, check them for wear and tear. Don’t use lights with frayed or damaged cords or exposed wires. When purchasing lights, double-check to make sure they’re the color you want. There are different types of white light, with some being significantly brighter than others. LED lights are also the most cost-effective and long-lasting option. Lastly, make sure any lights you purchase are specifically designed for safe outdoor use.

Use the Right Materials

This might go without saying, but don’t use sharp materials such as nails and staples to fix lights on your roof. It’s not a good idea to use anything that can cause damage to your roof or expose it to the elements.

Holes in your roofing, even the tiniest ones caused by a staple gun, can open up the interior of your home to moisture and damage. These are the enemies of a roof, so avoid those sharp objects! These days, it’s easy to find plastic light clips specifically designed for hanging holiday lights. Pick up some of those while you’re at the store, your roof will thank you for it.

Get to Work

For a flawless look, attach your light clips every 6 to 10 inches apart to avoid that sad, sagging look. If you want your light job to look flawless, keep it crisp and clean. Secure the lights firmly and face them all in the same direction. Work neatly around doors and window frames. If you need to attach lights to posts or railing, zip ties are a great, safe option that won’t damage anything.

What NOT To Put On Your Roof

Lights are beautiful and, if installed correctly, safe. However, some people like to go all out for the holidays. We all have that one neighbor who has every type of light and decoration available. While it might look impressive to have a house and yard that looks like it belongs to Santa himself, not all decorations are safe, particularly for the roof of your home.

Steer clear of putting any type of decoration near the chimney. All it takes is one stray ember and you’ll have a house fire on your hands. It’s also ill-advised to cover your roof in those flashy inflatable decorations. Sure, they might look awesome, but consider this. One big gust of wind combined with a poorly fixed inflatable snowman and your roof is going to be suffering from some serious damage! Lastly, avoid covering your roof in heavy decorations. That life-size Rudolph replica might look appealing, but adding lots of heavy decor t your roof, combined with the weight of snow and ice, is a recipe for disaster.

Those who are building or renovating their homes often wonder whether roof insulation is worth the money. It’s not always standard to install insulation directly into the roof slope itself, begging the question of necessity for many homeowners.

Proper roof insulation might not be seen in all houses, but it does have advantages. Not only does it prevent unnecessary damage, but it also stops you from racking up serious heating and cooling costs during extreme weather. Poor or non-existent insulation is very expensive because of the amount of energy being wasted trying to keep a home at an ideal temperature.

However, many homes don’t have roof insulation, and rather have just ceiling insulation. This is quite common, and under some circumstances can work well, rendering roof insulation in addition to an insulated ceiling unnecessary.

What’s The Difference Between Roof and Ceiling Insulation?

Roof insulation refers to the insulating of the actual roof slope itself. Ceiling insulation, however, is the installation of any type of insulation in the floor nearest the roof structure. Insulating a ceiling is significantly easier, and sometimes cheaper, than a roof, which is why if you have to choose between one or the other, ceiling insulation might be the better option.

That being said, there are some circumstances where your roof must have insulation. For example, any home where the ceiling is a part of the roof deck, like with cathedral ceilings, will require roof insulation to regulate the internal temperature of the house.

If ceiling insulation is necessary or preferred for your home, there are multiple types of ceiling insulation to choose from including:

• Fiberglass
• Cellulose
• Foam
• Spray Foam
• Mineral Wood
• Natural fiber
• Denim insulation

What is Roof Insulation?

If you like in an area where temperatures reach either hot or cold extremes regularly, you can’t be too careful with your insulation. In these conditions, roof insulation is recommended, and is typically constructed from the following materials:

• Fiberglass Batt Insulation: This is by far the most common and inexpensive method, and involved the placement of fiberglass sheets in between attic rafters. However, this material isn’t the best at preventing air leakage and is also highly susceptible to unhealthy mold and mildew growth.
• Rigid Foam Insulation: Another common insulation material, rigid foam comes in sheets or panels that can be specifically sized to fit the roof slope. These panels can be installed between roofing rafter and also create an effective barrier t protect your home from air leaks and damp conditions.
• SPF (Spray Foam Insulation): Similar to fiberglass insulation, this material is sprayed between the attic rafters to form a seamless barrier against leaking air and moisture. Because of this, Spray Foam Insulation is a fantastic option for the conversion of an attic or anywhere where the roof directly protects a living space.

The advantages of roof insulation

A properly sealed attic or well-installed insulation in a roof is much more efficient in terms of energy. A roof is a very large surface area, and can easily lose heat during the winter if not properly insulated. Roof insulation will also make your air conditioning significantly more effective in the hot summer months.

Having your roof insulated can also work wonders in preventing any long-term damage from ice dams, condensation, or moisture. If you live in a very cold climate, roof insulation is typically a must. Freezing conditions are very damaging to a poorly insulated roof and can lead to expensive repairs. Whatsmore, roof insulation, and proper ventilation work together to help keep your home free protected, and damage-free.

Although installing roof insulation might be costly in the beginning, it will certainly save you money in the long run. Roof insulation significantly increases the energy efficiency of a home. Not to mention protects your roof from damage caused by cold conditions and ice. Such damage can be exorbitant to repair, so forking out the upfront cost for the installation of roof insulation is advisable.

Protecting your roof, your home, and yourself during the coldest months of the year is very important. Poor roof care and maintenance can lead to potentially disastrous and dangerous conditions if not regularly attended to. Unfortunately, this time of year with its cold weather and snowy or rainy conditions can be tough on a house, particularly the roof. To prevent wear and tear and enjoy the winter without disaster, here are some essential tips for preparing your roof for freezing winter conditions.

Make Sure Your Trees are Maintained

Poorly cared for trees can pose one of the biggest dangers to a roof, especially during the winter. A fallen limb or branch, or even the tree itself, can cause catastrophic and scary damage. To prevent this from happening, always ensure trees on your property have been well maintained and trimmed heading into the winter season. This is particularly important towards the end of the year when snow, thunderstorms, and high wind conditions are more likely to down poorly cared for trees.

Inspect Your Roof Insulation

You can easily lose massive amounts of heat from your home due to poor or aging insulation. Not only will this cost you money and waste huge amounts of energy, but nobody wants a cold house during the winter. As the weather starts to cool, make it a priority to check your roof and insulation, making sure there are no significant gaps or that the insulation isn’t old and worn.

Clean Your Gutters

Cold weather brings with it stormy, windy conditions, which quickly clog up gutters and drains with fallen debris and leaves. Cleaning drains each season is advisable, but especially during the wintertime when drainage is vital. If water cannot efficiently drain away from your roof, it could cause serious damage. Standing water can ruin shingled and cause rot, which is a dangerous situation for a roof. Not to mention, pools of water on a freezing cold roof can lead to dangerous ice dam formation. Ensure those gutters are clear of grime and gunk to enable them to effectively drain water away from your home.

Check Your Flashing

Flashing is a thin piece of impervious material, typically installed around joints or corners on a roof. Flashing has one major job, and that’s to prevent roof leaks. Leaks, even minor ones, can cause problematic water damage, especially over time. Flashing that’s seen better days should be repaired or replaced before the onset of snow and wet weather. Freezing temperatures, rain, strong wind, and damp conditions can cause your flashing to become corroded or damaged, which is why regular inspections are vital.

Do a thorough examination of shingling

Storms are not the friend of a shingled roof. Although shingles tend to be quite hardy, they will eventually and inevitably undergo some damage. That damage is most likely to occur during the winter months. Loose or missing shingles leave your house vulnerable to the elements and can lead to water damage or dangerous conditions. Fortunately, shingles are very quick, easy, and cheap to replace. It’s much less expensive to spend the money on repairing some worn shingles than it is to fork out for more severe damages.

Rooves protect your home and, in turn, they also protect you and your family. But although we often let roof maintenance slip our minds, it’s critical that your roofing is taken care of. Cold weather isn’t great for a roof, but taking these simple steps to keep it in the best condition possible will pay off in the long run. Roof damage can be very expensive to fix, which is why it’s never advisable to forgo proper regular maintenance.

Solar panels are rapidly increasing in popularity, as more and more people are becoming increasingly environmentally aware and choosing solar panels as a way of reducing their long term electricity costs. With solar power becoming more affordable for the average person, it’s easy to see why it’s a smart choice as a means to power your home or business. And while solar panels are relatively accessible, there are some things that should be considered before you install them on your roof.

Make Sure There’s Enough Sun

First things first, in order for solar panels to work well you need one thing… sun! This sounds like an obvious point to make, but not all roofs are created equal when it comes to the amount of sun exposure they get. Make sure that your roof is exposed to enough bright sunlight daily to make the installation of solar panels worth it.

The Condition Of Your Roof

Before considering a solar panel installation, you need to take a look at the condition of your roof. If your roof is older or is in need of repairs, it probably isn’t a great idea to install solar panels before you get those taken care of.

The Type Of Roof

The roofing materials used on your house can make a difference when it comes to solar panel installation. Concrete shingle tends to be the best and easiest for installation. Other types of roofing materials that can accommodate solar panels include:

• Composite
• Tile
• Metal
• Tar
• Foam
• Torch-down
• Wood Shake
• Gravel
• Tar

It is possible to install solar panels on almost every type of roof, however, some materials may require more complex installation or maintenance. Make sure to consult a contractor if you are unsure about the materials used on your roof.

The Shape Of Your Roof

There are many different sizes and shapes to roofs, and solar panels can work well with most kinds, but you do need to take the size of your roof into consideration. If the area of your roof is too small you may not be able to install enough solar panels to get a good return on your investment.

Maintenance

After the installation of your solar panels, you will need to perform regular maintenance on both the panels and the roof underneath. Ensure your roof is in good condition before you install your panels, and then keep up with the maintenance work. Make sure that regular upkeep is something you can access and afford.

Consider The Extra Weight

It’s very important to make sure that your roof can handle the extra weight load of solar panels. Have a professional inspect your roof and give it the all-clear before you consider installation, as the extra weight could cause a weaker roof to collapse, which can be very dangerous.

Don’t Forget About Rain

Typically, when it rains, the water runs directly down your roof, into your gutters, and drains away from your house. However, the installation of solar panels means that some equipment can get in the way and divert rain flow to other areas of the roof. This has the potential to lead to leaks or mildew, which can cause severe damage to your roof and threaten its integrity. Make sure to have a contractor take a look at your solar panel installation to ensure water is still able to run off your roof properly.

All in all, solar panels can be a fantastic way to generate electricity for your home or business without damaging the environment. They can also be a very cost-effective energy solution in the long run. However, make sure you set yourself up for success before your solar panel installation to ensure your roof is in good condition and you can get the maximum return on your solar investment.

Remember, starting with a poorly maintained, weak, or old roof can be dangerous, so please consult a professional contractor prior to installation to ensure the conditions of your roof are safe.

There are numerous different types of roofing materials that can be used when building a new home or replacing an existing roof. While all roofing materials have their pros and cons, and while there are a few different types of shingles, asphalt shingling is the most commonly used material for residential roofs.

With a lifespan of approximately thirty years, cheap installation costs, and low maintenance, it’s easy to see why asphalt shingling is such a popular choice. However, when choosing what material to use for your roof, it’s important to consider a number of different aspects to make sure that you are making the right choice. If you’re considering an asphalt shingle roof, here are the pros and cons that you should be aware of.

Pros Of Using Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Affordability

Asphalt shingles are the most affordable roofing material available. They’re easy to find, and their ease of maintenance and installation means that they are affordable to install as well as upkeep.

Versatility

Asphalt shingles are very versatile, adapting easily to different applications, which is one of the key reasons why they are so widely used on various types of housing and buildings. They even work well on steep-sloped structures.

Installation

The installation process for asphalt shingles is simpler and quicker than most other types of roofing materials. They’re relatively uncomplicated to cut, fasten, and fit. Furthermore, they don’ts require any special materials or accessories for edges, vent flashings, or chimneys.

Low Maintenance

Asphalt shingling is not only easy and affordable to install, but low maintenance requirements also lend to the popularity of this type of material. They can be easily and safely walked on without risk of damage, and any shingles that do become damaged are simple and cheap to replace.

Energy Efficient and Environmentally Friendly

Although not always the case, asphalt shingle technology has improved over the years, making them more environmentally friendly and recyclable. Additionally, they can have cool roof technology, which can lower your energy bills by reducing the amount of heat that is absorbed by your roof.

Other Pros

There are a number of other miscellaneous pros to asphalt shingling. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, they’re light-weight and fire-resistant.

Cons Of Using Asphalt Shingling

Decreased Durability

Asphalt shingles might be cheap and easy to replace if they get damaged, but the downside is that they do get damaged more easily than other forms of roofing. They tend to be susceptible to high wind and other forms of weather damage.

Not Designed For Flat Roofs

If you live in a home with a flat roof or one that isn’t very steeply graded, asphalt shingled might not be the best roofing material to use, as they will wear out easier from weather damage than they would on a steep-sloped roof.

Susceptible to Mildew Problems

Mildew caused by shady areas of your roof that pool excess water can cause mildew to set it, which can easily damage asphalt shingles

They Don’t Have The Longest Life

While thirty years is a good lifespan for an asphalt shingle roof (especially considering the cheap installation cost), other materials such as tile, slate, or metal can outlast an asphalt roof.

Thanks to the fact that asphalt shingling is common, inexpensive, and easy to install, it makes it a fantastic option for most residential roofing projects. Although it does have its cons, there are plenty of pros working in the favor of asphalt shingles.

If you are considering replacing your roof, or are building a new roof, make sure to check all the advantages and disadvantages of different roofing materials before making your decision. There are a number of factors that can play into the type of materials you use, and if you are unsure what option is best for you, it’s best to consult a professional roofing company before making your final decision.

Having a strong and reliable roof over your head is essential to a safe home. A roof is the first line of defense against weather, vandalism, or other flying debris. It protects one of your largest investments, so it’s important to complete regular checkups on your roof and fix it whenever necessary.

Even though new roofs can be expensive, if you need a new roof now you should not wait. Here are a few things to look for to determine when you need to replace your roof.

Know the age of your roof
One of the most important factors for roof replacement is the age and type of roof. Most roofs are asphalt shingles which generally last 25 years. If your roof is somewhere between 20 and 30 years old, you should start considering new roofing options.

If you have a different type of roof or if you have taken great care of your roof, you may be able to extend the life of your roof to 30 or 40 years. Although you should still maintain regular checkups to ensure it is still doing its job.

Inspect the shingles
You should be conducting roof inspections at least twice every year – once in the spring after winter and again in the fall before the cold and winter return. When conducting these inspections take notice of your shingles. Are they curling? Breaking? Or, are entire sections falling off?

If there are minor inconveniences, you can easily get them fixed or replaced. But, if large sections or multiple shingles are falling apart, it is likely to consider an entire replacement instead.

Health of shingles
Another thing to consider when inspecting the shingles is whether algae, moss, or other noticeably darkened spots have taken over. Truly, this is not a major issue and does not affect the integrity of the roof at all.

However, if large sections of the roof are covered over in moss or algae it may become a distraction to the house – in other words, an ascetics issue. If your roof is old anyways or falling apart, this might be the tipping point for you to replace it entirely.

You can clean off the algae, but do not try to power wash or scrape at it. Either method would destroy the granules on the roof. Instead, a gentle solution of bleach and water can be applied. Zinc strips can help as well.

Check the attic
Part of your regular roof maintenance should be to inspect the attic of your house to see if there are any yet undetected problems. Look for places where sunlight might be shining through. This can reveal problematic sections where water or even small animals can sneak in.

Look for leaking spots. Water damage can be disastrous to your house. Perhaps you are aware of leaking into your house that is damaging the structure and walls. At the very least, this is a sign that part of the roof needs attention.

If parts of the roof seem to be sagging perhaps from water damage or from old age, this is a good indication that a new roof is required. This sagging might be spotted from the attic or noticed from the outside.

Check the gutters
When cleaning out your gutters, if you notice an excessive amount of granules present, you should take a closer look at the roof. Granules are a key aspect of most asphalt roofs and if they start to fall off, parts of the roof will become more vulnerable than they may need to be given the age and quality of the roof.

Roof Replacement
Most of the time, your roof will tell you when it is ready for a replacement. As long as you remain aware of its age and perform regular inspections, you should be able to stay ahead of any potentially serious problems.

Having a strong and reliable roof over your head is essential to a safe home. A roof is the first line of defense against weather, vandalism, or other flying debris. It protects one of your largest investments, so it’s important to complete regular checkups on your roof and fix it whenever necessary.

Even though new roofs can be expensive, if you need a new roof now you should not wait. Here are a few things to look for to determine when you need to replace your roof.

Know the age of your roof
One of the most important factors for roof replacement is the age and type of roof. Most roofs are asphalt shingles which generally last 25 years. If your roof is somewhere between 20 and 30 years old, you should start considering new roofing options.

If you have a different type of roof or if you have taken great care of your roof, you may be able to extend the life of your roof to 30 or 40 years. Although you should still maintain regular checkups to ensure it is still doing its job.

Inspect the shingles
You should be conducting roof inspections at least twice every year – once in the spring after winter and again in the fall before the cold and winter return. When conducting these inspections take notice of your shingles. Are they curling? Breaking? Or, are entire sections falling off?

If there are minor inconveniences, you can easily get them fixed or replaced. But, if large sections or multiple shingles are falling apart, it is likely to consider an entire replacement instead.

Health of shingles
Another thing to consider when inspecting the shingles is whether algae, moss, or other noticeably darkened spots have taken over. Truly, this is not a major issue and does not affect the integrity of the roof at all.

However, if large sections of the roof are covered over in moss or algae it may become a distraction to the house – in other words, an ascetics issue. If your roof is old anyways or falling apart, this might be the tipping point for you to replace it entirely.

You can clean off the algae, but do not try to power wash or scrape at it. Either method would destroy the granules on the roof. Instead, a gentle solution of bleach and water can be applied. Zinc strips can help as well.

Check the attic
Part of your regular roof maintenance should be to inspect the attic of your house to see if there are any yet undetected problems. Look for places where sunlight might be shining through. This can reveal problematic sections where water or even small animals can sneak in.

Look for leaking spots. Water damage can be disastrous to your house. Perhaps you are aware of leaking into your house that is damaging the structure and walls. At the very least, this is a sign that part of the roof needs attention.

If parts of the roof seem to be sagging perhaps from water damage or from old age, this is a good indication that a new roof is required. This sagging might be spotted from the attic or noticed from the outside.

Check the gutters
When cleaning out your gutters, if you notice an excessive amount of granules present, you should take a closer look at the roof. Granules are a key aspect of most asphalt roofs and if they start to fall off, parts of the roof will become more vulnerable than they may need to be given the age and quality of the roof.

Roof Replacement
Most of the time, your roof will tell you when it is ready for a replacement. As long as you remain aware of its age and perform regular inspections, you should be able to stay ahead of any potentially serious problems.

Having a strong and reliable roof over your head is essential to a safe home. A roof is the first line of defense against weather, vandalism, or other flying debris. It protects one of your largest investments, so it’s important to complete regular checkups on your roof and fix it whenever necessary.

Even though new roofs can be expensive, if you need a new roof now you should not wait. Here are a few things to look for to determine when you need to replace your roof.

Know the age of your roof
One of the most important factors for roof replacement is the age and type of roof. Most roofs are asphalt shingles which generally last 25 years. If your roof is somewhere between 20 and 30 years old, you should start considering new roofing options.

If you have a different type of roof or if you have taken great care of your roof, you may be able to extend the life of your roof to 30 or 40 years. Although you should still maintain regular checkups to ensure it is still doing its job.

Inspect the shingles
You should be conducting roof inspections at least twice every year – once in the spring after winter and again in the fall before the cold and winter return. When conducting these inspections take notice of your shingles. Are they curling? Breaking? Or, are entire sections falling off?

If there are minor inconveniences, you can easily get them fixed or replaced. But, if large sections or multiple shingles are falling apart, it is likely to consider an entire replacement instead.

Health of shingles
Another thing to consider when inspecting the shingles is whether algae, moss, or other noticeably darkened spots have taken over. Truly, this is not a major issue and does not affect the integrity of the roof at all.

However, if large sections of the roof are covered over in moss or algae it may become a distraction to the house – in other words, an ascetics issue. If your roof is old anyways or falling apart, this might be the tipping point for you to replace it entirely.

You can clean off the algae, but do not try to power wash or scrape at it. Either method would destroy the granules on the roof. Instead, a gentle solution of bleach and water can be applied. Zinc strips can help as well.

Check the attic
Part of your regular roof maintenance should be to inspect the attic of your house to see if there are any yet undetected problems. Look for places where sunlight might be shining through. This can reveal problematic sections where water or even small animals can sneak in.

Look for leaking spots. Water damage can be disastrous to your house. Perhaps you are aware of leaking into your house that is damaging the structure and walls. At the very least, this is a sign that part of the roof needs attention.

If parts of the roof seem to be sagging perhaps from water damage or from old age, this is a good indication that a new roof is required. This sagging might be spotted from the attic or noticed from the outside.

Check the gutters
When cleaning out your gutters, if you notice an excessive amount of granules present, you should take a closer look at the roof. Granules are a key aspect of most asphalt roofs and if they start to fall off, parts of the roof will become more vulnerable than they may need to be given the age and quality of the roof.

Roof Replacement
Most of the time, your roof will tell you when it is ready for a replacement. As long as you remain aware of its age and perform regular inspections, you should be able to stay ahead of any potentially serious problems.

Once you have decided to purchase a new roof for your house and selected your roofing material, you will need to pick out a roofing contractor. Picking out the right roofing contractor will make all the difference. The right contractor will ensure the roof is properly installed and ventilation systems are set up. Going with a poor contractor can lead to unnecessary problems and more expensive purchases in the long run.

Here is some of the best advice to help you pick the right roofing contractor for your project:

Know What You Are Looking For
Before you start doing some research you need to decide on the specifics of your project. You can immediately eliminate certain contractors if they don’t install or have little experience with the type of roofing you desire.

Decide on a budget and decide what else you would like from the roofing company. For instance, do you need them to remove the old roof as well? Once you are set, you can start to check for things like average installation time, size of crew, and costs.

Do your research
When researching roofing contractors, the first place most people will look is at the contractor’s website. This is a good place to start, but it is important to remember that the website is designed as a marketing tool. Companies will only put information on there that will help them attract customers.

Do your due diligence and check other sources. Check for credentials from manufacturers. These are a good indicator of quality work. Also check out a contractor’s score from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Maintaining a high BBB score is a sign of a good contractor. Try to avoid contractors that have no listing at all.

Ask around
If you know people who recently hired a roofing contractor in your area, ask them about their experience. Ask them why they chose their contractor instead of going with someone else.

If you don’t know someone, ask social media for help. Maybe one of your friends online will have some suggestions or can point you to someone who does.

Testimonials and reviews are another great option to get real customer feedback. Check the contractor’s website, Google, or a third-party review site such as GuildQuality to find reviews of certain contractors. Try to look for reviews that include images so you can actually see what type of work the contractor will provide.

Check for insurance & licensing
Roofing is a dangerous job. While most states require contractors to provide insurance for all employees and contractors, many contractors still try to avoid it. Make sure any client you are working with has proper licensing and insurance to avoid legal complications. Do this before you start any work with the contractor. A reputable contractor should be able to provide the right documentation without a problem.

Get a contract written up
Make sure you and the contractor sign an agreement prior to starting any work. This should include the details of the project as well as any associated costs.

Make sure to include a section about handling unplanned repairs. These arise often, so it is important that you know what the contractor’s process looks like and what the costs might be. You don’t want to get taken advantage of, especially considering the already hefty price tag of a new roof.

Handle your own claims
If a problem were to arise during the installation process, make sure you handle your own claim. Most states have made it illegal for contractors to negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Communicate with the contractor, but make sure you are filing and following up on any insurance related issues.

Get multiple quotes
Once you have found a few contractors that you like, get a quote from all of them. Even if the first quote you receive checks all your boxes, take the time to review the rest. Ask the right questions, and you might end up getting a better deal or find a new issue to take care of.

And remember: the cheapest option is not necessarily the best option. When it comes to roofing contractors, you get what you pay for!