Introduction

If you spend more than once or twice a year thinking about your roof, you are very unusual. However, the signs of water coming into a living area are enough to rev up your thinking process. It could be a minor leak that can be repaired quickly and inexpensively by the homeowner. The worst-case solution would be installing a complete new roof. If that is the situation you are faced with, this article will acquaint you with some of the considerations in replacing your roof.

By Susan M. Keenan ©2010

Home ownership involves several home maintenance tasks if you want your home to look nice and if you want to avoid major home repairs. After all, if you don't take care of your home, eventually, it is going to start to fall down around you. Cleaning out your gutters and downspouts is one of these tasks. Not only does this task help to keep your home safe from harm, but it also assists in maintaining the nice appearance of the outside of your home.

Uh-oh. Your roof needs repairs. Perhaps it needs to be replaced. This may be the biggest home maintenance issue you've ever had to deal with. So how do you choose the best contractor to get the job done, and done right?

Ask for Referrals

With all of today's high-tech advertising, word of mouth is still the best way to find out the truth about a business. If you know anyone – family, friend, or coworker – who's had their roof worked on, ask them about their experience. Did their contractor do a good job, stay within budget, and finish in a reasonable amount of time? Or did the whole experience have them pulling out their hair with frustration?

Look around your neighborhood, and you're likely to see composition shingles. More than 80% of American homes are roofed with composition shingles – and for good reason: Composition shingles are cost-effective, low-maintenance, and easy to install. And today, composition shingles offer a wide range of choice – they come in a variety of colors and textures, and may even mimic natural materials. There are many benefits to roofing your home with composition shingles. (Also called asphalt shingles.)