Whether rain, wind or sunshine, you know that your roof takes a beating from the elements all year long. So, when you have a problem with your roofing system, you probably feel a sense of urgency to get it repaired, serviced or replaced right away. You may not know how to decide upon the best roofing contractor to entrust with such an essential system of your home. Keep reading to find out!
Know Your Roofing System
Your roof is different from other home systems in that once a problem has occurred, such as a water breach, roof problems may damage other materials and home systems. Understanding basic roofing principles will help you work with your contractor better.
- Waterproofing: Your roof has many layers that prevent the elements from ruining your home. The first layer of defense is your shingles or tiles (most Florida homes have asphalt shingles or tile systems). If your shingles or tiles are damaged or missing, your waterproofing barrier has likely been breached, whether or not you notice water stains yet. Decking, insulation and other materials are at risk of damage.
- Energy efficiency: As the Florida sun beats down on your roof, heat transfers to your attic and living spaces. Work with your roofing contractor to ensure your roofing materials, attic insulation and ventilation are working efficiently to keep your home comfortable and your energy bills lower.
- Foundation: Your roofing system uses gutters to convey water away from your home’s foundation. If your gutters are leaky and in disrepair, water seeps into the ground all around your foundation and can cause substantial damage.
Working With Your Roofing Contractor
Now that you better understand the many roles your roof performs, you can see how important it is to maintain it. Schedule a roof inspection each year. Late fall is a good time of year so you may clean your roof and gutters and have your roofing system inspected. Your roofing system will last longer and you’ll gain a lasting working relationship with your contractor.
Look for a roofing contractor with a long history and excellent reputation in your community. Check with your local Better Business Bureau to see how different contractors work with their customers. Be sure to ask contractors to provide you recent work references.
If you want a roofing contractor with a stellar reputation to work on your Sarasota home, contact Mark Kaufman Roofing today!
