roof in

Winter may finally be over, but in some of the hardest hit regions of the country, it's left a lingering reminder of its wrath. As KUSA TV out of Colorado recently reported, "Wet, heavy snow means leaking roofs." If his or her roof hasn't been repaired or replaced in a while, the homeowner is particular vulnerable to leaks. An expert source cited in a recent Times Colonist article pointed out that many homeowners "have so many old layers of material on the roof that there is a danger of water leaks or even roof collapse if there is any significant accumulation of snow."

A leaky roof isn't just a nuisance and an eyesore either. It can "lead to house fires. Moisture in ceiling electrical boxes can [also] lead to short-circuits," the expert went on to point out.

Key Danger Signals that Your Roof Is Leaking

If you notice either of these situations creeping up in your home, it's probably time to consult a roofing contractor:
-Leakage in attic after driving rain
-Stains on interior ceilings and walls or mold and mildew growth

What to Look for in a Roofing Contractor

So you've reached the conclusion that it's time to consult a roofing professional. Now what? KUSA TV offered these guideline.

1. Put a call out to your insurance carrier. ¬- This consultation should take place strictly between the insurance provider and the homeowner. The roofing contractor should not need specifics about coverage and deductibles to provide you with a quote.

2. Get at least a second and preferably even a third opinion. - Don't just take the first quote and run with it. Call a few roofing contractors and then have them come out and take a look at your roof so they can provide you with an estimate. "Make sure that you are comparing apples to apples in each bid." That leads to ...

3. Don't automatically accept the lowest bid you receive. - "Low bids can often mean someone is cutting corners to make a profit."

4. Do your research. - Before hiring a contractor, ask around. Word-of-mouth testimonials from past clients are your best source of information. Check with your local Better Business Bureau and Chamber of Commerce to see if any past complaints have been leveled against the roofing contractor you're considering and to ensure that they are properly licensed.

5. Get a detailed agreement and contract. - "The agreement should clearly state materials to be used and labor to be performed, along with terms of payment and who is responsible for permits, etc." When it comes time to sign the contract, "be sure that EVERYTHING you have agreed to is in writing."

6. Ask for proof of insurance. - Your roofing contractor should carry both Workers' Compensation and General Liability insurance.

7. Make sure you get warranty terms in writing. - "The contractor should be able to provide you with a sample for your review before signing a contract."

A new roof is a big job and a big investment. To protect that investment, hire a professional roofing contractor who can offer proven experience, a written estimate and worry-free installation.