If you’re in the process of building a home, you might be wondering which roof style will be best for you. Should you choose a sloped or a flat surface? Well, in truth, a sloped almost always makes the most sense. Let’s take a look at these two roof types and discuss the benefits and pitfalls of each.

Unfortunately, when it comes to finding the ‘pros’ to a flat roof, they are few and far between. The only beneficial factors to a flat roof are the fact that nobody will really see it, so the esthetics of the material you choose are obsolete, and the cost of construction for a flat roof is less than the cost of a sloped roof. However, the list of ‘cons’ for the flat roof is far more numerous.

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Flat roofs are prone to leakage. Because water, snow, and ice sit longer on a flat roof, and do not run off efficiently, flat roofs are far more susceptible to leakage than their sloped counterparts. Also, flat roofing is subject to extra weight, this is especially true in areas where snow and ice are common. This added weight will guarantee structural weakness over time. Flat roofs also lose stability as square footage increases; the larger the structure, the weaker the roof. Flat roof surfaces catch leaves and other debris easily; so regular cleaning is required, especially in deciduous areas. Flat roofs are often used for modern architecture, and should you choose to go this route, be prepared to increase your maintenance schedule.

Sloped roofing tends to be more popular and comes with its own list of pros and cons. A sloped roof will allow for adequate run off and can be more thoroughly insulated. Sloped roofs almost always improve home appraisal and require less maintenance than do flat roof styles. However, sloped roofs are not without their own issues. Sloped roofs can be more costly than flat styles and homeowners are faced with the selection of the most esthetic material and style. Depending on your location, sloped roofs can run from relatively inexpensive to completely outrageous. Because sloped roofs are visible, style and color of material is of vital importance. Balancing the aesthetics of your roof to that of the comparables in your neighborhood and the current style of the rest of your home is imperative for maintaining property value. For these reasons, sloped roofing is a major investment that should not be entered into without thought.

All in all, sloped roofs get a better consumer rating than their flat counterparts. But, if you’re still leaning toward the flat style, be sure you’re located in an area that is flat-roof-friendly. For example, heavily wooded areas are unadvisable for the flat roof because of debris accumulation.

Remember, either style you choose should be selected based on your individual needs and your personal preferences. If you’re planning to resale, you should probably choose the roofing style that’s most popular in your area. But if you’re building your dream home, and you love a flat roof – go for it! The choice is really up to you.

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As always, one of the first things to consider when choosing a roofing contractor is your budget. Get as many estimates as possible (most of the time estimates are free) and keep track of the price each potential contractor gives you. If possible, request estimates in writing to ensure stability. You can eliminate contractors that bid too high, and you might consider eliminating contractors that bid too low. Low ball bids typically indicate inexperience or less than stellar work ethics.

You should request proof of licensing, and proof of permanent business structure. Both these requirements will ensure that your job is completed to specifications and in a timely manner. It’s also wise to select a contractor who carries insurance. Request to see documentation as proof (i.e. insurance certificates or cards).

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Obtain the roofing contractor’s warranty options and all the information that goes therewith. Roofing is a major investment and it’s imperative that you protect your investment to the fullest.

Choose a roofing contractor who is also a good communicator. It’s a smart choice to pick someone who is willing to provide you with all the details you require concerning your project. Openness often indicates honesty. Honesty indicates a contractor who will not cut corners at your expense.

You might find it beneficial to choose a contractor who will obtain all the permits without your assistance. This is what we call a ‘full service’ contractor, a service that is a must have for busy households.

It will also be important that the roofing contractor has a cleanup schedule and a clean yard guarantee. Don’t choose a roofer who requires you to haul off old materials yourself, or one who will leave your lawn in a mess at the end of every day. Debris is one thing, but soda cans, cigarettes, napkins, and other garbage is quite another. Contractors with impeccable cleanup standards also tend to do impeccable work.

Do your homework. Ask your roofing contractor to provide you with at least three previous jobs and follow up with each one if possible. Ask them as many questions as you can think of concerning customer service, quality, and work ethic pertaining to the roofing crew. Because your roofing project is such a huge investment, it’s not smart to choose a novice contractor. If you choose to go with the ‘new guy’, your warranty package will become that much more important.

Lastly, go with your gut. Most of us will get a sixth sense or a gut feeling about impending projects and the people we elect to do them. If you don’t ‘feel right’ about any given individual, move on to the next option. It may seem hokey, but gut instinct can make or break many situations. If you are uncomfortable with someone, chances are there IS a reason. Don’t ignore what your body tells you.

If you’ve experienced a roofing horror story in the past, or you know someone who has, use that experience as a learning tool and don’t fall victim to the same mistakes. Take your time deciding and don’t forget to enjoy the process – and the outcome. You are in the driver’s seat!

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You’ve heard that old adage about having a ‘roof over your head’. Well, keeping a roof over your head requires a certain amount of maintenance. Let’s examine some of the reasons that roof maintenance is so important and how often this maintenance should take place.

Some roofing materials require less maintenance than others, but it’s a good idea to have you roof inspected at least once a year no matter what material you’ve elected. In fact, some contractors recommend having your roof inspected quarterly or after each passing season. Why, because neglecting your roof can end up costing you a fortune in the long run and prove to be way more trouble than necessary.

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Your roof will take a beating from the elements and suffer more harsh circumstances than any other part of your home. If you live in an open area, it’s subject to direct daily sunlight, wind, rain, hail, snow, ice, and everything in between. If you live in a wooded area, your roof is subject to all these and then some. Algae and mold are common problems for people living in heavily wooded areas. For these reasons preventative maintenance is key. Think of it like a ‘check up’ for your home. If you catch an ‘illness’ early, chances are you will afford fewer long term problems.

Roof maintenance should include regular cleaning of debris and other foreign material. But don’t make the mistake of pressure washing your roof. This can damage roof materials and create weak spots that are susceptible to leaks. Roof maintenance should also include the replacement of missing shingles and cutting back any overhanging branches or tree limbs. Nothing will ruin your day like a giant limb falling through your bedroom ceiling! You should also make sure to inspect caulking and sealants around vents, chimneys, and skylights to prevent leaking.

If you fail to keep up with your roof maintenance, you could be facing a world of hurt later down the road. Many people are taken by surprise when they finally notice dripping from overhead. By the time your carpet or flooring is wet, your ceiling is completely saturated and the wood structures above it may be compromised. The cost of replacing a missing shingle or two will be far less than having to replace roof beams and water damaged sheetrock. If you neglect your roof maintenance and you let things go, you could end up with a major repair on your hands. It’s common for people to end up forking over cash for structural damage, sheetrock replacement, and ceiling finishes and paints. When you consider all the damage neglect can cause, regular roofing maintenance becomes a complete no-brainer.

If you care about your home, and your family, you will do your best to make sure that you keep a solid and safe ‘roof over their heads’ and regular roof maintenance is the best way to complete that task. Wise homeowners will tell you that, whether you it yourself or hire it out, it’s well worth the time and the money!

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