Your shingle or metal roofing system is a vital asset that protects your loved ones, home and possessions from the elements. When you have questions about roof repairs, service or a roof replacement, be prepared when speaking to and interviewing roofing contractors.
The integrity and efficiency of your home’s roofing system through the years largely depends on developing a good working relationship with a reputable roofing company. Here’s how to do that.
Get to Know Your Roof
There are many layers and materials used in the construction of a roofing system. Take a peek at the layers beneath your asphalt shingle or metal roof to help you make more informed decisions when working with your roofing contractor:
- Underlayment: The underlayment is generally heavy tar paper that provides an extra layer of waterproofing.
- Sheathing: The sheathing (or decking) are wooden sheets that cover the rafters and attic, and to which the underlayment and asphalt or metal roof are attached.
- Flashing: Flashing are pieces of metal that prevent water seepage at roof intersections.
- Fascia: The fascia is wood that covers the rafters at the roof’s edge, and to which the gutters are attached.
- Soffit: The soffit covers the underside of the eaves to the wall.
- Gutters: The gutters and downspouts are an important part of your roofing system that help protect landscaping and your home’s foundation from water damage.
Practice Preventive Maintenance
Like any other home system, your roofing system needs regular maintenance to extend its useful lifespan with maximum efficiency. Keep an eye on your roof through the seasons — especially following strong storms. Call your roofing contractor at the first sign of loose, missing or damaged shingles. Water spots on interior ceilings and walls are telltale signs your roof needs attention.
Bear in mind that working on your roof poses extreme safety risks. Always contact a reputable roofing contractor when you need to schedule seasonal roof maintenance, such as cleaning debris and leaves from your roof and gutter system, mitigating black algae, moss or mold and inspecting your attic and insulation.
In order to maintain professional relationships with roofing contractors, hire a true professional, such as Tri County Roofing! Only work with roofing contractors that have stellar reputations, years of service in your area and employ professionally trained and certified people, from the receptionist to the estimators and roofers that will be working at your home. Contact Tri County Roofing today!
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