Why Is the Roof the Most Important Part of the Home Exterior?

Roofs, no matter what they look like, are immediately the most important part of every home. Although they are often overlooked. While your roof performs a huge role both in your property and to your family, make certain that you are able to take good care of it. Remember that whenever you see issues and defects, immediately call for a professional to have them inspected and fixed.

THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ROOFING SHEETS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS

The Different Types of Roofing Sheets and Their Functions What are roofing sheets? They are materials produced for various applications used in different types of roofing in both domestic and commercial construction. Each roofing sheet differs in terms of its function as well as its characteristics, but all of them serve varying needs. The longevity, maintenance costs, and durability of your roofing will all depend on the kind of roofing material that will be used in the construction of your home or commercial building. It is important to do your research and know which roofing sheet best suits your needs before you proceed in buying them.  Here are the main types of roofing sheets and their functions: 1. Polycarbonate Roofing Sheet Polycarbonate is highly resistant to chemicals, oil, water, and solvents. It is lightweight, transparent, durable, and can withstand extreme weather conditions. Polycarbonate is an effective roofing material and is often used in various applications because of its high impact strength that’s able to resist great amounts of force. This roofing sheet is also easy to install, cut, maintain, and has UV protection.  With its transparent, glass-like appearance that seamlessly transmits light, polycarbonate roofing sheets are commonly used in industrial and skylight roofing for warehouses, greenhouses, garages, patios, sheds, decks, walkways, swimming pool areas, etc.  2. Plastic Roofing Sheet Plastic is the least preferred out of all the main types of roofing sheets because it is not that durable. However, it is lightweight, waterproof, anti-corrosive, highly flexible, and easy to install, so it makes an ideal roofing sheet for temporary buildings and small constructions such as garden sheds. Take note that the longevity and durability of the plastic roofing sheet depend on the type of plastic you will choose. If you don’t want that much weight on your rooftop, go for a lightweight plastic sheet.  If you want to use a weightier plastic sheet to increase strength, go for polycarbonate roofing sheets instead because they are both lightweight and durable. Sturdy plastic sheets don’t always guarantee durability, which can only lead you to spend more.  3. Corrugated Roofing Sheet Corrugated roofing sheets are lightweight and have been widely used in a variety of applications such as agricultural and industrial structures for many years. Initially, it is low-maintenance and would only need repairs every 5 to 10 years, depending on its exposure to pollution, of course. It is the corrugated sheet’s shape that makes it a highly durable and reliable roofing material. If rubbed together or not handled properly, it can easily get scratched.  4. Metal Roofing Sheet Metal roofing sheets may have some similarities with corrugated sheets in terms of their appearance, except that metal has lesser curves. This roofing sheet is made of tin, zinc, aluminum, and copper, which is why it can withstand almost every weather condition and extreme temperature. It is also highly durable and nearly indestructible, making it a common roofing material used for household cladding, industrial roofs, garages, and backyards. The durability and strength of metal sheets didn’t get in the way of it being lightweight. On top of that, they are affordable and carry a significant amount of insulating properties.  Other roofing sheets you may want to consider: PVC or polyvinyl chloride is known for its durability, flexibility, and low maintenance. It is also lightweight, waterproof, and resistant to chemicals, rotting, fire, corrosion, wearing, and every weather condition, which is why it is preferred to be used in both medium and long-term applications in building and construction. PVC’s strength and aesthetic appeal are often used for heavy roofing applications and decorative purposes. Its roofing applications include hospitals, schools, patios, industrial sheds, canopies, etc.   UPVC or unplasticized polyvinyl chloride differs from PVC in terms of its flexibility functions because it is hard and rigid. Hence the term “unplasticized,” UPVC doesn’t have plasticizers added to its PVC material, which is why it is not flexible. Like the PVC roofing sheet, it is also durable and low-maintenance. It is a great heat and energy insulator and is often used as a roofing solution for corrosion and extreme temperatures. Since UPVC is hard and rigid, it is difficult to knock down, making it ideal for increasing the security of both domestic and commercial structures in case a robbery or break-in occurs.  Aluminum roofing sheet is a common roofing material used in many household constructions because it is durable, energy saving, low-maintenance, and reasonably priced. It can withstand extreme weather conditions, is anti-corrosive, fire resistant, and easy to install. Aluminum is a thin metal roofing material which makes it lightweight and helps decrease load on the structure. 

The Best Roofing Materials for a Rainy Climate

A roof design incorporates both engineering and aesthetics, and the choices you make depend on the weather you expect to encounter regularly. If you live in an area that experiences frequent rains, you should consider a higher-pitched roof that will shed water more easily. As to the type of roofing material you will use, there are many choices. Price is of course, an important factor; however, long-term durability, maintenance, and cost of ownership should also be considered. Asphalt Asphalt shingles, better known as 3-tab or architectural, are popular in many parts of the country. They are readily available, perform well in most climates, and are affordable. Recent innovations have introduced different patterns, designs, and colors to the mix, which have made asphalt shingles more competitive. However, asphalt shingles do not hold up well in extreme heat. They tend to lose the mineral surface that protects the base materials of the shingle, which leads to early deterioration. As they age, the edges will start to curl and the color will fade. Another concern is that asphalt is porous and can promote algae and mold growth. Many manufacturers offer lifetime warranties on their shingles, but the average lifespan for an asphalt roof is 15-25 years. At the end of their useful life, they cannot be recycled and must be discarded in a landfill. The mineral particles on the surface help reflect the heat from the Sun, but due to its base material, asphalt will transfer heat to your home, which can lead to increased cooling costs in the summer. Metal Metal roofing has been used for decades and is regarded as a low-maintenance, long-lasting solution to protect your home from the elements. Metal is not as susceptible to mold, fungus and rot as other roofing materials, and most roofers are familiar with the installation process. Unlike asphalt, metal is an excellent reflective surface and will help keep your home cool in the summer. Metal roofing is available in panels or sheets, as well as tiles. The advantage of using panels is that you can avoid seams, since they can be produced in long lengths that extend from the roof edge to the ridge. There are multiple color options and they are produced in designs similar to wood shakes and slate. However, metal roofing is expensive to purchase and install. If you ever need to replace a panel, it will be difficult to match the color, and if the panels are long, the process can be expensive. Also, certain types of metal roofing will expand and contract, causing the fasteners to wear out and require replacement before the roof does. Wood Wood shingles, or shakes, are unique in the roofing industry, and the homes they cover stand out due to their natural beauty and rustic appeal. They are eco-friendly and sustainable, but there are maintenance issues to consider if you are in an area that gets a lot of rain and heat. Wood will expand when wet, and as it dries, it can crack, especially under extremely hot conditions. Wood shingles must be kept clean to avoid mold and fungus growth. Rot can also develop. Insect infestation can be an issue unless the shingles are properly treated. Since wood is normally flammable, some areas of the country won’t allow their use, even if they carry a fire rating. Concrete/Clay For those wanting a Mediterranean style, terracotta, clay, and concrete barrel tiles provide instant satisfaction. They have a reputation for long-lasting durability, are fire-resistant, and can be recycled. One of the benefits of clay and concrete as a roofing material is that the heat they absorb during the day is released back to the atmosphere in the evening, instead of passing to the attic below. This helps prolong the life of the wood structure and reduce cooling costs in the summer. Clay and concrete are extremely heavy and will require additional support if the roof was not originally engineered for the extra weight. Asphalt shingles weigh between 150 and 320 pounds per 100 square feet. Clay roof tiles will weigh between 700 and 1,100 pounds per 100 square feet. In addition to the added cost of supporting the roof, installation costs will be at least twice that of ordinary shingles, as specialists will be needed for the project. Maintenance will also have to be done by the same specialists, driving up the cost of ownership. Slate Slate makes a beautiful roof and has been found on homes in North Wales, dating back 700 years. It is a natural product, and the average lifespan of a properly maintained slate roof can be 50-100 years. It will function well in every climate, including heavy snow, and is virtually fireproof. Due to its weight, slate is an excellent option in areas that experience high winds. However, slate, like clay and concrete, is a heavy roofing product that requires additional support for the roof, and the use of roofing contractors who have previously installed slate. Though slate does not require a lot of maintenance, specialists must perform it, making it costly. Slate is expensive to purchase and transport, and if it needs to be replaced, finding a match can prove difficult. Best: Composite Roofing Tiles Synthetic composite roof tiles are an eco-friendly option made by combining recycled materials such as hemp fibers and waste plastics. Re-using these materials reduces the trash sent to landfills and promotes green living. Another benefit is their ability to perfectly mimic the appearance of slate, wood shakes, and terracotta while remaining unaffected by heavy rain, snow, or heat. Composite roofing tiles are virtually maintenance-free. They have an average lifespan of up to 50 years, so a synthetic composite tile roof may be the only roof you ever need. They are lightweight, won’t break under the weight of installers, and do not require special equipment or fasteners to install. They cannot rot and are available in multiple colors.

What does a Roofer do?

Roofs play an important role in safeguarding structures from weather elements such as rain, snow, and sunlight. Roofers possess the knowledge and skills to select and install appropriate roofing materials, ensuring that roofs are durable, watertight, and properly insulated. Without roofers, buildings would be vulnerable to leaks, structural damage, and compromised energy efficiency. Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe duties and responsibilities of a roofer can vary depending on the specific project and work environment. However, here are some common tasks and responsibilities associated with the role: Types of RoofersThere are several types of roofers, each specializing in different aspects of roofing installation, repair, and maintenance. Some roofers may have expertise in multiple areas or offer a combination of services. Here are some common types of roofers:

Fire Resistant Roofing Materials: Your Choices, Ranked

Wildfire season stresses everyone. There is always the risk that the winds bring the fire to your home. While no roofing material is completely fireproof, you can choose roofing materials that are significantly less combustible and less likely to catch fire if the wildlife is next door. There are also materials that won’t feed fires if they do happen to collapse into your home while it is on fire. If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of needing a new roof after a fire, or if you just want to be sure that your next roof is better fire-protection, then you may want to compare the fire resistance of a few different roofing materials. In this guide, we’ll do just that, comparing the fire performance and the other pros and cons of different roofing materials. What Does Fire-Resistance Mean? Before we get into comparisons between different materials, you need to know what fire-resistance means. There is no roofing material that is impervious to fire. It may not catch fire, but it may melt and distort under the heat from a fire (especially a wildfire.) Fire next to the roof or below the roof will still likely cause damage to the roof. That said, materials with high fire-resistance are a big improvement over older materials. Wood shakes, and low-qualityasphalt shingles could catch fire from a wildfire or from a building fire. If the structural integrity of the roof fails during a fire, the materials can fall in and fuel the fire or start one inside of the building. How is Fire-Resistance Measured? So, how do you know how fire-resistant a roofing material is? There are three standard ratings used in the roofing industry: Class A, Class B, and Class C. You should certainly avoid materials that are unrated and not achieved the bare minimum for any of these ratings. Class A is the best fire-resistance rating. Materials that achieve this rating can resist severe fire exposure. ATSM testing protocol has these materials undergo three different tests. First is the intermittent flame test. Testers blow hot, intense flames onto the roof for two minutes. The test is repeated 15 times to see if the roof will fail. Second, testers apply the flame for 10 minutes to see if the material will catch fire and, if it does, how far it will spread. Then, a burning brand is placed on the roof, and a wind machine generates a strong wind. It is left for ninety minutes to see if the roof catches fire or fails. A Class A roof needs to pass all of these tests. There are Class B and Class C roofing materials available, but there is no reason to buy them. There are many reasonably priced options that meet Class A rating, so you don’t need to settle for less. That said, it’s still prudent to compare the materials that meet Class A fire-resistant standards to see which offer the very best protection and which meets your other priorities for a roof. 1. Metal Roofing Metal roofing is an excellent fire-resistant roofing option. Metal will not combust under fire, and though it may eventually melt, few fires can get hot enough to do so. Metal roofs do have wooden decking (as all roofs do), so this part is vulnerable to internal fires and may be vulnerable to external fires in the even the metal melts or warps. That said, not all metal roofing systems ae designed to the same quality. It is important to make sure that the specific metal roofing system you choose passes the Class A tests. Metal roofing is an expensive option in the short-term but less expensive in the long run. These roofing systems can last for 40 to 70 years. They have many color and style options, although not as many of asphalt shingles do. If you can handle the up-front investment, they can be a great option. 2. Asphalt Shingles Almost all asphalt shingles available on the market have achieved a Class-A fire-resistance rating. Therefore, you can choose almost any of them and get a great level of fire protection. We prefer CertainTeed shingles, and all of their options have UL Class A fire-resistance rating, including: While shingles are not quite as good as metal roofing at resisting fire, you will likely be very impressed by their performance. They are very unlikely to catch fire or to fuel a fire if they fall in. Like metal, they can melt and warp under extreme heat. They also offer some benefits over metal and other roof types that you may appreciate. They are more affordable upfront, simpler to install and come with a much wider range of styles and colors. In fact, CertainTeed has shingle types that are meant to replicate the look of wood shakes. If you’d like wood shakes but are concerned about their poor fire performance, these are a great option. You can also get asphalt shingles that look like slate tiles. 3. Concrete or Clay Tiles Clay tiles were used for centuries in warm climates and large cities where the spread of fire was a concern even centuries ago. In the modern-day, you can find concrete tiles that mimic the look of clay tiles, but which are more durable. Concrete is obviously highly resistant to flame, but just as with metal roofing, it is important to make sure that the specific tile products you’ve chosen are Class A fire rated. Clay tiles are not typically as durable as the other roofing materials we’re covering. They can be a challenge to install, and it is therefore, sometimes hard to find a roofer who can work with the material. They are more cost-effective than metal roofing, but they will need to be replaced earlier. 4. Slate Tiles Slate tiles are another possible fire-resistant roofing material. Slate is rock, and therefore very resistant to flame, and even unlikely to melt and warp when exposed to high heat. However, slate has many disadvantages as a roofing material. It is heavy, expensive, and challenging to install. Although, those homeowners who have a historical home or who want an elegant look may love slate tile.

TIPS ON HOW TO BUY GOOD QUALITY ROOFING MATERIALS AND ACCESSORIES ON A BUDGET

fter the economic slump, there was a rise in the obsession to find the most cost-efficient ways to make purchases. All sorts of lifestyle publications began regularly including savvy tips on how to score items on a discount. Likewise, TV shows are also revealing the power of being dedicatedly frugal – you have “Extreme Couponing” on the Discovery Channel where “smart” (and quite stingy) shoppers can purchase practically everything they need from the supermarket without paying full price. Indeed, these days, why pay full price when, with a little effort, you no longer have to? Not too many folks know, however, that scoring a good deal on big construction materials that are not substandard is also possible. People just do not know how to ask about available deals; usually, when they go shopping and they do not see any of those big discount or special promo signs, they immediately think that there’s none. But those provisions are always available; the key here is to always ask, especially if there’s an intention of purchasing in bulk. TOP 5 TIPS TO BUY ROOFING MATERIAL FROM HOLLISTER ROOFING When it comes to buying good quality roofing materials and other accessories on a budget, frugal home improvement experts have rounded up tried and tested tips that can save buyers a significant amount of money, and they are listed below.

HOUSE BUYING SERIES: QUESTIONS TO ASK ABOUT A HOUSE’S ROOF BEFORE BUYING

The roof is one of the most important parts of a home. As the primary line of defense between your home and the elements, it should be a top priority when you’re searching the market. Asking a few important questions about the roof before buying could save you time, money, and energy. CAN I SEE THE ROOF REPORT? Many sellers obtain professional roof inspections because they can prove to buyers that a home’s roof is in a condition worthy of the house price. When an inspection is performed, the inspector records their findings in a roof report. By seeing the seller’s roof report, you confirm that the roof has been properly inspected and will be able to see any problems noted on the report. WHO INSTALLED THE CURRENT ROOF?   It’s useful to know who has done work on a home. If you know the name of the contractor, you can research them to determine if they are trustworthy and reputable. If you don’t find good results on the contractor, you may want to contact a contractor you trust to perform a full inspection. WHAT IS THE CURRENT ROOFING MATERIAL?   Roofing materials greatly affect the longevity of a roof. There is a wide range of roofing materials on the market, from shingles to metal roofing. If you’re not familiar with roofing materials, confirm what type the house currently has, and research its pros and cons. In addition to longevity, the material can affect the cost of repairs. HOW OLD IS THE ROOF?  It’s always important to know how old the roof is. This will help you determine when repairs and replacements will likely be needed. If a roof is older, it may not be able to withstand harsh weather well. Age is relative to the roofing materials, however, which is why that should be your first question. A fifty-year-old shingle roof would be ancient, but a metal roof of the same age may have a lot of life left in it. DOES THE ROOF HAVE A TRANSFERABLE WARRANTY?  Even new roofs can have damage, which is why warranties exist. However, not all warranties are transferable to a new owner when a house is sold. If you’re considering purchasing a home with a newer roof, get a copy of the warranty to see if it’s transferable. If the roof warranty is a selling point, it’s best to verify that this is actually a benefit you could claim. HOW MANY LAYERS OF SHINGLES ARE ON THE ROOF?  When a roof needs to be re-shingled, many homeowners opt to place a new layer of shingles on top of the old one to reduce the amount of labor needed. This isn’t an effective way to replace or repair a roof, however, because the new shingles won’t be able to lie flat, which can prevent the roof from properly sealing. A roof with layers of shingles will be at risk for leaks and will need to be replaced sooner rather than later. A home’s roof can be a huge selling point, but as a buyer, it’s important to know what you’re looking for. For more tips, subscribe to our blog!

5 questions to ask your roofing contractors when hiring

It happens to us all from time to time – we notice the odd drip and a few leaks before deciding that the only thing to do to save our roof is hire a professional to see to the growing problems. However, it is easy to underestimate how important your choice of roofer is. To help you avoid the cowboys and rogues, we’ve put together five things you should definitely ask a roofing professional before hiring them. “What is the full name and address of the company?” This may seem like an obvious one – probably so obvious that you hadn’t even thought about it. If the roofing company doesn’t have a physical address, that is a huge red flag. It can imply that the roofer is not running a legitimate business – or, at least, a prosperous one – and you should put the phone down right away. “How experienced are you?” The subject of their experience, too, could seem so obvious that you wouldn’t even consider asking about it. You may feel rude or patronising asking a qualified professional for their experience – but, if they are a trustworthy contractor, they will have no qualms about reassuring you by discussing their hard-earned qualifications and instilling you with confidence by reporting about their experience. “Do you have insurance?” One of the most important things you can ask your potential roofing contractor about is insurance. Due to the hazardous nature of the work they are trained to carry out, all roofing contractors should hold public liability insurance. Any self-respecting roofer will no doubt hold this insurance, simply because the risk is too high if they don’t. A good driver wouldn’t drive without insurance, so a good roofer shouldn’t trade without it either. At this point, you could also ask to see proof of their insurance and ask if they are associated with the NFRC (the National Federation of Roofing Contractors Limited), the UK’s largest union for roofing contractors. As they represent over 70% of the UK’s roofing industry, it would be comforting for you to know that your chosen roofer is part of that association. “What is the price of the deposit?” If you request the price of the deposit straight away, you will get an idea of the overall cost without appearing too demanding. Never pay a roofer the full cost upfront; too many times, this has resulted in a total lack of service and loss of money. The roofer should, at an early stage, give you an idea of the expenses that need to be covered throughout the work. It would also be useful to buy an insurance-backed warranty or guarantee, should it be available – but, first, check what it will cover, Citizens Advice recommends. You want a warranty or guarantee that will cover the expense of having the work finished or rectified should the contractor go out of business mid-job or simply provide poor work. “How long will the work take?” Asking this question will help you to understand how long parts of your home will be out of action and whether you should or can commit to such a length of time. After all, the work will be in your home, so you should take the temporary disruption into account.

4 Benefits Of Hiring A Roofing Contractor

If you have any issues with your roof, such as if there’s a roof leak or you notice missing shingles, then you should contact a professional roofing contractor to schedule repairs. You might be tempted to do the work yourself or to hire a general contractor to save money, especially if the issue appears to be minor. However, you should always work with a roofing contractor when it comes to your roof! The following are the four reasons why you should always hire a professional roofing contractor to handle any and any roof issues you might have. 1. Professional roofers have safety training Getting on your roof to fix roof issues is dangerous. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could hurt yourself or someone else or even cause more damage. A roofing contractor not only has the proper safety training, they have the tools required to do the job safely as well.  2. Secure better warranties A general contractor may not be able to provide a warranty on the work they do. An experienced roofing contractor will often have manufacturer training, which means they can provide the best available warranties. The better the warranty is, the safer your roof investment is. 3. Roofing contractors are more reliable A general contractor may have some experience working on roofs, but they won’t have nearly as much experience or expertise as a roofing contractor. A roofing contractor is much more likely to identify the source of the problem and to fix it properly. Additionally, you can rely on local roofing contractors to come to address any future damage you may experience. 4. Obtain peace of mind Knowing a roofing contractor has the skills and know-how to do the job right means you’ll have peace of mind. Your roof will be more likely to last for years to come. Not to mention they can perform periodic inspections to ensure your roof remains in good condition. These are four reasons why you should hire a roofing contractor instead of attempting to address any issues on your own or hiring a general contractor. If you want the job done right, you’ll want to depend on someone with roofing experience and expertise. This makes a roofing contractor the only option. To speak with a professional be sure to contact us at Roofing Center today.

The 4 Main Reasons Why You Should Hire a Roofing Contractor

With the rise in roofing prices and contracting in general, some homeowners are trying to find cheaper alternatives for their roofing projects. Maybe they’re hiring their neighbor, brother, uncle, a crew off Craigslist, or even someone who has a handwritten sign on the side of the road with a number to call.  Look, I get it. Saving money where you can is important and sometimes necessary. But your roof isn’t one of the things you can get cheaply and expect the job to be done perfectly.  That’s why it’s important to hire a certified and professional roofing contractor. You’re probably thinking, “You’re a roofing company, so of course, you’re saying that.” By the end of this article, you’ll understand why.  For over 30 years, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has helped homeowners understand everything about their roofing project. This includes how and why you should hire a great professional roofing contractor.  Let’s get to the 4 main reasons you should hire a professional roofing contractor.  1. Professional roofing contractors have proper safety training The first and probably most important reason you should hire a professional roofing contractor is for safety reasons. Roofing contractors have training and knowledge to properly work and walk on a roof safely.  But training and knowledge aren’t the only things it takes to work on a roof safely. Roofing contractors have the safety equipment required to work on a roof, like ropes, sponge pads, proper shoes, and harnesses to tie off on steep roof pitches.  They also have years of experience getting on and off a roof with a ladder at various heights. Which is still something incredibly dangerous to do even with years of experience.  I will always recommend that anyone who’s uncomfortable on a ladder or walking on a roof should avoid getting up there in the first place. Because even with all the experience a roofer has, accidents still happen.  And if it does happen, a professional roofing contractor has the proper insurance to take care of any injuries. The last thing you want is for an accident to happen on your property, and you be responsible for payment.  2. Professional roofing contractors have access to better quality materials The next reason to hire a professional roofing contractor is for their access to quality materials. They’ll have suppliers with all the roofing materials and components your roof needs. But quality isn’t the only thing they have access to when it comes to materials. A professional roofing contractor can find a broader selection of colors and shingle brands to find the perfect fit for your situation. Plus, most professional roofing contractors are certified by shingle manufacturers to offer better roof warranties (more on that in a bit). They can also get different types of roofing materials, like synthetic, metal, cedar shake, etc.  Now, I’m not saying it’s impossible for you or a non-professional roofer to find quality materials. However, you can count on getting the best materials available with a professional roofing contractor.  3. You can rely on a professional roofing contractor’s workmanship The next reason why you need to hire a professional roofing contractor is for their workmanship. Every roofing project requires experience, knowledge, training, and skill to do the job right.  A professional roofing contractor and their installers have years of roofing experience under their belts. This difference in skill can make the final quality between a professional roofing contractor and someone off the street drastic.  Of course, there’s always the chance that errors and mistakes can happen even with professionals. However, you can count on a correct roof install most of the time from a professional roofing contractor.  Just know there will always be bad professional roofing contractors out there. But this doesn’t mean you should avoid hiring a professional completely.  You just need to know how to spot a reputable one, and if you stick around until the end, you’ll be able to do this.  4. You’ll have better roof warranty opportunities with a professional roofing contractor The final main reason you need to hire a professional roofing contractor is for your roof warranty options. When working with a professional roofing contractor, you’ll have two warranties after your roofing project is completed.  The first one will be on the roofing contractor’s workmanship. A workmanship warranty is in place to protect your roof against installation errors. This means if there’s ever a problem caused by poor craftsmanship, the roofing contractor should take care of it at no cost to you. Just know the length of a workmanship warranty varies from contractor to contractor.  The second roof warranty will be on your roofing materials and protects against defects during the manufacturing process. Every roofing material comes out of the package with a warranty from the manufacturer.  However, a lot of professional roofing contractors have certifications from manufacturers to offer better warranties overall. For example, architectural asphalt shingles come out of the package with a 30-year prorated warranty.  If the roofing contractor is certified by the manufacturer of the shingles, you’ll have the opportunity to get a 50-year non-prorated enhanced warranty. But to get this, you’ll have to invest and use all of the one manufacturer’s components to form a complete roof system.  Both warranties are in place to protect your roof investment. With a professional roofing contractor, you can count on getting more protection in the long run.  The checklist you need to hire a great professional roofing contractor Now you know the 4 main reasons you need to hire a professional roofing contractor. If after reading this you still want to hire your neighbor, brother, or a random crew off Craigslist, go ahead.  Just know you won’t get all the protection, experience, and craftsmanship a professional roofing contractor offers. But remember, there’s still the possibility of making a bad hire even when looking for a professional roofing contractor.  That’s why you need to know how to spot a reputable one out of the sea of options in your area. To help you do this, I created a checklist of 16 questions every homeowner needs to ask potential roofing contractors.  The checklist not only has the questions to ask, but it also has the answers a reputable roofing company should give back. With your free checklist, you’ll have the ability to determine if a roofing contractor does things the right way and you’re making the right hiring decision.  Since 1990, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has provided high-quality roofing services to thousands of homeowners in Nashville and surrounding Middle Tennessee areas. We take pride in everything we do, and we’re proud to offer a lifetime workmanship warranty, so you never have to worry about your roof again.  If you’re local to Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, Belle Meade, or another surrounding Middle Tennessee area, don’t hesitate to contact us for any of your roofing needs.  Here’s your Checklist of Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor to find a great professional roofer in your area.