Roofing shingles are overlapping building blocks that cover and protects your roof. Typically, these building blocks are either flat or rectangular in shapes. These are made up of flagstone, plastic, wood, slate and other composite materials. These are commonly used roofing material, but any humidity or dampness can deteriorate them. Preventing them from algae, dirt and mildew help them last longer. Given here are the tips which help you find worn out roofing shingles that need immediate repair.
Types of Materials From Which Roofing Shingles Are Made:
Cedar:
A roofing shingle made up of cedar require repair/replacement when you see them splitting and falling apart in dry climatic conditions. If you are living in a moist area, it tends to get coated with algae or moss. The average life span of this type of roof is 20 years.
Tile:
In this case roof can last up to 100 years, but the individual tiles are likely to get broken. These need to be replaced, but you should hire an expert roofer for this.
Concrete:
This material never needs replacing.
Which Material to Choose?
If you detect any break or leakage in the roofing shingles. It is time for you to repair or replace it. If weather conditions of the place where you are living are not suitable then contact a roof repair specialist and request him to conduct a close inspection about the damage occurred on the roof. But, you should be very careful about choosing the materials of the roofing shingles. Both asphalt and wood are not resistant to fire and you should never choose them if you reside in an area where there are a lot of trees around.
Wood and Asphalt are good options for a sound protection of your roofs but they are more expensive. If you live in an area where snow loads is an issue then you need to go for a lightweight and long lasting standing seam-metal roof. Prior to getting hold of slate or tile, you should remember that these two are heavy materials though they look gorgeous.
How to Find a Reliable Roofing Contractor?
Once you think that your roof needs repair or replacement, you should look for a roofing contractor whom you can rely on. Do not think of indulging in DIY (Do It Yourself) methods as this is a tough and dangerous job indeed which requires specialization. If you are looking for a roofing contractor, just remember a few pointers enlisted here.
Must Be Certified, Bonded and Insured:
To get the best roof repair job done, you need to hire a certified and authorized roofing contractor to ensure a high level of professionalism and expertise. Certified, bonded and insured service takes the onus of getting your job up to your satisfaction in a specified period of time.
Seek the Help of Internet and Get the Quotes:
As a next step, you should get quotes from the various roofing contractors. This will help you get the cheap and the best deal. You can also seek the help of the online forums to know the reputation of the contractor you plan to hire.