How to pick a good roofing contractor to replace you're worn out or leaking roof.

When picking a roofing contractor you have to consider many different options before you chose. Before you can even decide on who to call you have to understand your roof a little bit first. Roofing is a system of wood sheeting, tar paper, water proofing, shingles and flashing. The bottom level or sheeting is basically the strength of your roof; sheeting is typically ½ or 5/8 sheets of plywood and could be as thick as ¾ inches. Sheets of plywood come in sizes of 4'x8'. Typically if your roof has failed or if it's showing severe signs of failing you will need to replace some of these sheets as well. Next is the felt paper or vapor barrier, this will keep the moisture off the plywood sheets and keep them from rotting away. You will cover the entire roof with felt paper. Then if you live in a cooler or cold climate where you are exposed to freezing temperature for any amount of time you will want to put Ice protection on the lower 4' or 6' of your roof. This will keep out water that wicks back under the shingles during a situation called Ice Damming. Ice Damming is when your roof creates a dam of ice which prevents water from flowing down to and off from the lowest part of the roof. Then you have the shingles, the shingles are the most important part of the protection of your roof. They have to be able to withstand sun, rain, ice, snow, and even hail. Good shingles can last up to 40 years while most shingles on the market today will last between 20-30 years. Finally the flashing, flashing is the most likely cause of roofing leaks and can be very tricky to get right. Flashing material is typically made up of galvanized metal and goes around areas that protrude from the roof like chimneys and vent tubes, skylights, and other similar items.

To get the most from your roofing contractor you must be able to ask the right questions. You need to know certain things before selection can begin. You will want to know that the roofer is licensed in the state in which they will be working. You will want to know that they have insurance to protect them in the event of an accident at your home and insurance against poor workmanship and materials. You will also ask them for references from some of their past customers. People will tell the truth about companies that have done well and will also tell you about companies who have done things in a bad way.

Ok so you have your list of questions and now you're ready to make the big leap into some phone calls. I would call the roofers in the phone book, those who have a website are also generally reputable, and also talk to your friends, co-workers, and others who may be able to refer you to a good roofing company. Now your ready to find your best roofing contractor out there and make sure you get more than 3 quotes, then make sure you have at least 3 quotes which are similar to each other and make sure each one addresses clean up and removal of old roofing debris.