A strong and sound roofing structure is important to the safety and comfort of your home. You should only pay for quality roof installation and roof repairs if you want an efficient, durable and aesthetically pleasing roof. In order to get the best service out of your roofing contractor, it is important to first understand roof components and the various options you have:Roof systemSome basic components are common to steep-slope roof systems often used in residential construction. Roof coverings are the roof materials that most contractors will discuss with you when installing a new roof. Covering include shingles, slate, tiles or metal and the underlayment that will offer protection against the weather. The roof covering you choose determines the aesthetics of the roof as well as its ability to handle the prevailing environmental conditions.The sheathing is the series of boards and sheet materials fastened to the roof rafters to cover the building while the rafters or trusses are the structural support for the entire roof. Finally, the flashing and drainage are the materials used to prevent water seepage and direct water away from the roof. Once you understand the roofing system, it is much easier to understand the terms used by contractors while discussing the best roofing option for your home.Choosing a roofing contractor for quality installation and repairsYour roof is an important investment and you need to spend money on a contractor that is worth every penny. Good contractors will use the best materials to ensure your roof lasts longer and provides better service. Some of the things you should consider when choosing a contractor includePermanent place of business and addressSome contractors will walk up to your doorstep and tell you how many problems you have with your roof. Without a permanent place of business and a business license, you should be wary of such contractors. Work with reputable individuals who have a business premise, licenses and tax identification.Roofing insuranceThere is a lot of damage that can occur during installation or roof repair. Therefore, you should work with roofing contractor that have an insurance cover. Contractor companies with liability coverage and workers compensation are more likely to offer quality services because they are liable for any damage that may occur while they are working on your home.ExperienceWorking with an experienced contractor can also come in handy when installing or repairing a roof. Roofing contractors with sufficient experience in the business know about a variety of materials and solutions that you can use to fix specific problems as they arise. Roofing installation and repair jobs may be similar but every case requires a customized approach. Therefore, a broad based knowledge in roofing and roofing materials can help come up with customized solutions for specific issues.Be skepticalThe lowest bid is not always the best bid. You should be healthily skeptical about very low numbers. Ask for detailed quotes from at least three contractors to compare.
