Choosing a Roofing Contractor

Roofing is one of the most complex forms of building construction. It’s also an extremely demanding job, requiring tremendous patience and willpower in the office gawking at a computer screen and on the roof year round in torrid heat and freezing cold. Despite the challenges, this is a very important trade that produces sturdy homes for families and communities.

When you choose a roofing Walthamstow contractor, you can trust that the team will work quickly and efficiently to meet your needs. This allows you to spend more time with family and friends, and to avoid disruptions to your daily routine.

A well-maintained roof can last a long time, protecting the underlying structure from moisture and other elements. However, a worn roof is more likely to leak or have other problems that require professional attention. If you are experiencing the common signs of an aging roof – water spots on ceilings or walls, loose or missing shingles, moss or mold growth, and so on – now is the ideal time to consider re-roofing your Florida home.

While re-roofing can be less expensive than replacing the entire roof, it’s best to replace the whole thing if you can afford it. This helps ensure your home is safe and energy efficient, as it will be more likely to keep the cool air in during the summer and the warm air in during the winter.

New roofing is also an opportunity to add extra insulation, which can lower your utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Some modern roofing materials use reflective coatings and insulation layers that help minimize the transfer of heat, reducing the amount of energy your home uses to stay comfortable.

Before committing to a particular type of roof, it’s smart to look at full-size samples and manufacturers’ brochures, as well as visit buildings that have been roofed with a product you’re considering. It’s also a good idea to talk with a roofer about the ventilation and drainage systems used, as these are critical for a durable and lasting roof system.

There are 64 practical types of roofs, but the most popular in the US are asphalt shingles and metal panels. Other types include clay tile, slate, and wood shakes. All roofs depend on overlapping layers to shed rainwater and resist wind uplift. Many have flashing, strips of hot-applied metal that seal the joints where different roof planes meet.

Some homeowners are choosing to use their roofs as power plants, installing solar shingles that produce energy. Major roofing manufacturers, such as CertainTeed and Tesla, now offer photovoltaic shingles that look similar to traditional shingles. Solar roofing can be expensive, but you may qualify for a federal tax credit to offset some of the cost. Be sure to check with your local tax authority for more information.