Roofing Tips
Keeping your roof in good condition is a good way to save money. Follow some of Mark's tips to keep your roof in good condition and prevent costly repairs.
• Keep snow and ice from building up on your roof. When removing snow and ice buildup, don't use an ax, as it damages your roof and risks your safety. • If you do get an ice dam, we recommend using an ordinary garden hose hooked up to the hot water of your washing machine. Simply spray the hot water until you have several 1-inch valleys cut into the ice. This allows the backed-up water to run off and prevents further backup. Shingle-friendly ice melts are also a good alternative. Be extremely careful if using ladders. Best to call the professionals. • Check your roof after storms so minor damage does not become a major problem. Most damage resulting from wind is covered by your homeowner's policy; however, be sure to refer to your insurance policy. We are always more than happy to work with your insurance company. • Be very careful using ladders near power lines. • Make sure that whoever does your roofing work is a qualified roofing contractor. We get many phone calls from people who have let a remodeler do their roof but find they are still having problems. To be a good roofer, you do not have to be a good carpenter, and just because you are a good carpenter does not qualify you to be a good roofer. • When we have a storm such as the one at the end of February 2010, leaking may occur when there would, otherwise, be none. Such a storm could be compared to power washing your home for 24 hours. If you have no physical damage, wait until we have a "normal" rainstorm to see if the area is still leaking before calling someone for a repair. This way, you might be able to save yourself money on unnecessary repairs. |