Roofs often get overlooked when they are in good condition; however, all roofs require some type of maintenance during their lifespan. If left alone too long, even small issues can become big problems down the road. Here are five common roofing mistakes you should avoid as a homeowner.
1. Not hiring a professional roofing contractor
Not every homeowner is equipped to handle all aspects of home repairs and improvements. Knowing when it’s time to call in a professional is critical to prevent problems down the road. When it comes to your roof, calling in an expert should be something you do as soon as you notice issues like missing or cracked shingles, damaged flashing, or missing vents. The best way to avoid roofing mistakes is by hiring a trusted and reputable contractor to get the job done right the first time. If you need more info on how hiring a roofing contractor can save you time and money, check it out here.
2. Repairing rather than replacing
Even though it may be tempting to try and cut costs by fixing small roofing issues yourself, it’s important to remember that sometimes the best way to avoid problems down the road is to replace rather than repair. For example, if your shingles are missing in lots of places or are extremely cracked, you should consider removing and replacing them all together. Replacing shingles individually can cause you to miss spots where water could continue seeping through the roof, causing more damage. Also, if the damage is constantly occurring due to your roof’s old age, it would be wise to replace the entire roof rather than repairing.
3. Putting off roof inspections and maintenance
Not having your roof inspected and maintained regularly is another common mistake made by homeowners. Many people fear climbing on their roofs, and it’s an understandable concern due to the risk of falling. If you aren’t comfortable getting up on your roof or inspecting it yourself, hiring someone who can do it for you would be the best option. The last thing you want is a small problem to turn into a much larger one that requires you to replace your roof completely!
4. Installing the wrong roof in your region
Not every roof can stand up against harsh weather conditions. Some roofing materials are simply designed for certain regions. For example, asphalt shingles are the most commonly used type of roofing in North America because they can stand up against rain and wind. However, if you live somewhere with heavy snowfall, you should consider installing a material like metal because it can hold up much better. Before installing any roof, the best thing you can do is research the weather patterns in your area and what type of roof would be best for that climate.
5. Getting a cheap estimate from a low-bid roofing contractor
It’s always better to do your research and hire a reputable roofing contractor rather than go with the lowest bidder. Many times, just because someone is giving you an estimate for cheap doesn’t mean they’re going to do the job right. In most cases, you get what you pay for.
Ask friends and family who have had their roofs replaced what type of contractor they used and why. Also, ask for references to make sure the roofer is reputable. When a roofing company gives you an estimate, make sure it includes start and end dates as well as what materials will be used. You should also inquire about warranty information to ensure your satisfaction with the work!
The common roofing mistakes we’ve discussed should help you avoid these pitfalls and provide the information necessary to make better decisions about your home. If you want more expert advice on how to protect your home’s roof, you can always talk to a trustworthy roofing company. They’ll be happy to answer all of your questions and give recommendations based on what is best.
