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 A
new roof is a big job. And a big investment. That's why we strongly recommend
that you hire a professional roofing contractor who can offer proven experience,
a written estimate and worry-free installation. To make sure you're choosing the
best, use this checklist before you sign a contract:
Does the contractor:
- Have a good reputation? Check for references.
- Have adequate insurance
coverage? Protect your home from accidental damage?
- Thoroughly inspect your roof? Including
flashing chimney, soil stacks, other roof penetration, deck, plus attic?
- Provide a written estimate?
Including an accurate description of the work to be performed, plus work
that may have to be contracted out?
- Explain the entire roof system? Your roof is a
series of components that work together; you should know all about them.
- Check existing ventilation for
proper circulation? Explain the importance of ventilation? Improper
ventilation will damage your shingles and can invalidate your manufacturer's
warranty.
- Explain reasons for tearing off versus nailing
over the existing roof? Local codes determine the maximum number of nail-overs.
- Know, explain and comply with
local building codes?
- Apply underlayment to the wood deck?
Additional waterproofing underlayment might be needed if ice damming,
wind-driven rain, or collected or flowing water might be a problem.
- Apply shingles according to
manufacturer's specifications?
- Use proper fastening techniques? Four
fasteners for each shingle - six in high wind areas. Fasteners should
penetrate 3/4" into the deck.
- Commit to supervise the job
during all phases of work and inspect it completely when finished?
- Thoroughly clean up your roof and around your
house when finished? Remove all surplus material? Leave your yard in the
same shape the contractor found it?
- Clearly explain both the
workmanship and manufacturer's warranty? Are defective shingles replaced for
prorated replacement cost, or
 original
cost, with labor additional? You should be very clear about who to call with
a problem.
- Use quality roofing materials?
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