If you have questions about the process of replacing your own roof or the services that a roofing contractor can provide, the simplest way to do so is to ask your Rooffer (roofer). Ask questions in a way that does not put any pressure on him. It is always best if your questions are done in a calm, relaxed manner. If you can, try to find someone that you trust and ask him/her questions too. If all else fails, get your roofer a cup of coffee!
What should I ask my roofer about? – When the old roof goes away, there will be more work involved with replacing the new roof. The old roof is often unstable, has age spots and other problems. You should expect a roofer to discuss all of these issues and make recommendations for the problems and safety hazards that may appear after the roofing process. A good roofer is going to want to know as much as possible about your roof in order to be as effective as possible.
What materials are you supposed to use for your new roof? – When you are considering the roofing materials to use, be sure to find out if the roofer uses nails or saws to install the shingles and siding. Nails may be used, but if the nails are not sharp, they will puncture the shingles. If you have to use nails, make sure they are long enough so that they can penetrate the wood and shingle. If the nails are blunt, they will likely cut into the roofer’s head causing injury.
Can you help the roofer carry out his tasks? – Always carry out tasks such as laying up the shingles and nailing them to the roofing sheets correctly. A roofer cannot accomplish his work properly if he is struggling to get the nails through the shingles or if the shingles are not being pushed into place with ease. Remember that you are there to provide assistance, not hinder the work. You need to let the roofer to do his job, allowing him to complete the job with the greatest amount of safety.
Can the roofers carry out other functions? – There are some roofers who specialize in finishing the roof. If this is the case with the one you are employing, you should ask whether he also has the skills to install the sheathing under the existing shingles.
Does the roofer have any references you can contact? – You may want to ask your roofer to provide you with a list of references. When you ask your references, make sure they are from people you can trust, like family members and friends. It is also a good idea to get references from a different roofer as well. If a particular roofer does not provide you with references, you may want to look at another roofer who does.