The process of hiring a roofer is not always simple. Having a good roof over your head is the most important part of home maintenance. Learn more about what it takes to rock your roof by reading the tips below. By using great tools and materials, a good roof can become a great one.

If you have a leaking roof, but the roofing contractor you contacted can’t get there for a couple days, you might want to try a temporary fix. Nailing heavy plastic to the area can help. Though this technique may not be most effective, it does the job for now.

Don’t pay for the job in full before it’s even started. On average, avoid paying more than 25% as a start-up cost. It would be horrible if they did bad work or didn’t do everything you thought they would.

Choose a roof contractor with some good credentials. Nearly every locale has a license requirement, so make sure your roofer has the necessary paperwork. They should also have liability insurance and a workers’ compensation certificate.

Before you hire a roofer, ask what types of warranties he offers on his work. Some companies may offer you a deal that is a little better. Make sure the warranty is in writing, as well as the estimate. This ensures there are no changes made to your terms later.

If you want to go green when installing your new roof, think about acquiring a living roof. Living roofs include soil layers that can be home to plants of many types. While they are only ideal for flat roofs in the right climate, they are also a great source of insulation.

Get references from roofing companies you may hire. An honest roofer will be eager to provide his references to you. If the company is unable to produce this information, look elsewhere. This usually indicates a problem with the company.

Hire only roofing professionals able to show proof of insurance and necessary licenses. Do not hire them if they do not have this information. This is because you will have no line of defense or recourse if they end up doing a bad job and damage your home.

Many people neglect the roof boots when they are maintaining their roof. Roof boots are made of rubber and are susceptible to drying out. When they do, you are very susceptible to leaks so be sure to check on them and replace if necessary.

Don’t agree to anything that is not written down. Verbal contracts can lead to trouble if the work agreed on is not completed properly. Having a contract is the only way for you to prove that they have not held up their end of the bargain.

A responsible contractor will have the right insurance. If they don’t, don’t hire them. Have your contractor give you this information and also contact the provider to have it verified.

The roof is your last and best source of protection against any and all outside …