nast-roofing

Hiring A Contractor

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 16:38:22 GMT

Hiring a roofer can be c omplicated...but it's NOT impossible!

When you are considering hiring a roofing contractor, there are many things to look out for. By using some common sense and a little investigative know-how, you can avoid some of the issues common to most bad experiences. Within this article we will provide many of the questions you need to ask, and some of the best moves to make to ensure that your roofing experience is a good one.

Are Roofers in Your Area Required to be Licensed?

Many states and local municipalities require roofing contractors to be licensed. This typically means that they will take certain tests to prove that they have a working knowledge of roof systems, and also the code requirements and other laws in your area.

Are the Terms of the contract clearly defined?

The proposal that you receive from any contractor should be clear, easy to read, and define all of the work to be done. It should also be clear when payments are to be made by you, and how much each of those payments are to be. Keeping you informed is a big part of our job, but having everything in writing protects both parties.

Are You a Licensed Contractor?

If a license is required in your area, be sure that you find a contractor that is licensed, and that license is in good standing. You can check state or local authority websites to find out a lot about your potential contractor.

Do You Carry Insurance?

Most roofing contractors will carry insurance that will cover any accidental damage they may inflict on your property, as well as employees who may be working on your project. Many licensing agencies will require certain levels of insurance based on the projects they take on. A good contractor carries a current insurance policy that can be verified with a phone call to the agent.

How Long have you been in Business?

A general rule of thumb is that the longer a contractor has been in business, the better they are. But this is not always the case. Oftentimes a contractor who is just starting their business is a talented installer who decided to go out on their own. So while length of time in business can be helpful, you will need to decide if you are comfortable with someone who is just starting out.

Do you have references?

Past customer experiences are a great way to learn more about a roofing contractor. If they have a long list of great testimonials, you are more likely to be happy with their services. If you are happy with the service you receive, take the time to write a testimonial for the contractor. They will greatly appreciate it.

Does the Contractor have Online Reviews?

It is becoming much easier to find reviews of companies online, and roofing contractors are no exception. Doing a bit of research on a company in advance can save you a great deal of headache in the future.

Ask For Photos of Past Projects

Ask to see photos of past projects, whether they are on their website or simply on their phone. This is a great way to see what they have done in the past, and to ensure that they have actually completed the projects they have undertaken.

Use Common Sense.

Putting some thought into your decision in advance can save you a great deal of difficulty in the future. You should hire a company who meets your expectations and with whom you are comfortable.

Cheaper Is Not Always Better.

Contractors who offer a price that is substantially lower should be given a great deal of scrutiny. Make sure that they are going to be installing the same quality products, and doing it in the same way. Money is only saved by cutting corners, not carrying insurance or a license and can often have a profound effect on the outcome of your project.

Roof Safety for Homeowners

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 16:38:21 GMT

Should you Leave it To Roofing Professionals?

If you are asking yourself this question, then the answer is probably yes. It may seem like an easy thing to walk on a roof, but if you are not experienced with negotiating different pitches, and if there is any question at all about the roof's ability to handle the weight you are adding, do not attempt to climb on your own roof.

Slipped Shingles:

Shingles that have slipped out of place or those that are loose will always pose a threat to your safety while on the roof. It is very easy to step on a loose shingle that will take your feet out from under you increasing the chance that you will slide off the roof. The older your roof is, the riskier it becomes.

Rotten Decking:

If your home has a roof leak that you see inside, your roof decking is already being damaged. As shingles are installed, the nails penetrate the wood. If water is added to that mix, the decking can deteriorate from the inside out. This leads to weak spots that can literally collapse as you step on them, causing a risk of falling, even death. Trained roofers know how to walk on a roof, testing their steps before they take them to ensure that the roof can handle the weight they are about to place on it.

Steep Roofing:

It takes special training to walk or negotiate steep roof planes and it is never a good idea for anyone without this training to attempt to walk on a steep roof. The fall risk is simply not worth anything you need to accomplish, and this should only be left to trained professionals.

If you are in doubt as to the safety of climbing onto you own roof, it is time to call a professional. Contact us today !

Avoiding Ponding Water

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 16:38:20 GMT

Ponding water on a low-slope roof can lead to premature degradation of the roofing material, and structural damage from the weight of the water standing on the roof. A ponding water situation should be addressed as soon as it is discovered because a leak is most likely to occur exactly where the water is ponding.

What Causes Ponding Water?

While your low-slope roof was likely designed with a slight pitch to drain water, over time the building settles and lessens the effectiveness of the slope.

Why Does My Roof Leak Long After The Rain Ends?

When it rains, a ponding area on your roof will fill with water. When the rain stops the pond either evaporates or drips into the building after a leak develops. The water that has accumulated on the roof will continue to drip into your building until is is gone or the penetration is above the water line. Ponding areas will develop leaks, and those leaks are very much like a funnel pointed directly at the interior of your structure.

How do We Remedy a Ponding Situation?

Every roof is completely different and we will need to see yours in order to devise a plan to keep it from leaking and remedy the ponding situation. Don't hesitate to call us today for a free inspection.