At least twice a year, you should perform a visual inspection of your roof. Inspections should be performed from the ground, a ladder set at the edge of a roof, or another suitable vantage point. It’s never a good idea to walk on asphalt shingles, because they’re subject to tearing and scarring.
When you do your inspection, be sure to look for torn and/or scarred shingles, as well as debris buildup—especially if you live near big trees. Check the condition of the paint and caulking on flashings. If you see anything that doesn’t look quite right, it may be time to call a roofing specialist. Keep in mind that failure to perform routine roof maintenance can result in deterioration of your roof system, which may lead to water damage.
With so many roofing companies to choose from, finding a good one can seem like a daunting task. “It’s important to find a company that has a proven track record—one that will install a quality roof and honor the product,” says Jeremy Tamayo, co-owner of Town & Country Roofing. “It doesn’t matter what kind of warranty a company offers on paper if it’s not going to be around to honor it.”
When you’ve narrowed your choices down to a few good candidates, ask them for references and make sure they’re licensed and properly insured. Get bids from each one and ask them to explain exactly what it’s going to take to fix or replace your roof. Good communication is important, and breaking a job down step-by-step helps minimize surprises.
