Home goes by a lot of names to a lot of different people. While this metaphor is cliche, the roof is very important to your home. When you become a homeowner, you also become a “roof owner” and must take care of this roof. Read the below article for excellent advice on how to take care of your roof.

Each year, take a long, hard look at your roof. Roofs are commonly most damaged during winter months as well as spring time. Therefore, you need to carefully observe your roof during these seasons.

Check both the roof’s foundation and the shingles when you notice a leak. If your home’s sides are dry rotted, water may enter these areas. Check every possible entry point, including rotten wood, to ensure you solve the problem once and for all.

Make sure to wear rubber boots if you ever need to get on your roof. They will help you maintain footing whether the roof is wet or dry. Working on your roof is akin to a balancing act, and it’s often hard to maintain a good foothold. Safety first.

There are some questions you need to ask the roofer before you hire him. One inquiry should be about how many nails the roofer will place into every shingle. Most of the time, more than three nails is going to be required for a good job. Question them about their methods and see if you get a satisfactory answer. If you don’t like what they say, choose someone else.

It is your responsibility to know what’s involved in hiring a suitable roofing contractor. Never solely base your choice off of who is cheapest or who is the closest. Instead you need to look around at different roofing companies where you live. Look online, ask friends for recommendations, or use a professional service to find trustworthy workers for your project.

Always check the status of your roofer’s license before hiring him. If you are unsure as to what type is required, don’t just take your contractor’s word for it. Find the proper authorities to make sure rules are being followed.

Check your roofing materials thoroughly before installation. Many leaks actually originate from basic installation, with cracked shingles or nails that are an improper length to begin with. Be sure your shingles are sturdy and without cracks and make sure your nails are long enough to secure the shingles properly.

Identifying the cause of leaks is frustrating but totally doable. If you keep looking, you’ll find it eventually, especially if you get a friend to help you search with a garden hose. If you have a big area to cover, talk to your helper by cell phone when you test various areas to avoid excess water from getting into the house.

As a responsible homeowner, you must always take care of your roof. Many repair and maintenance jobs are able to be ignored, but not roofing issues. Utilize the great knowledge provided here to ensure your roof remains in the best possible condition.