A well-constructed roof should last from ten to twenty years, depending on weather conditions and the materials used in its construction; however, no roof is expected to continue forever. Most roofs will require a certain amount of maintenance and repair on an annual basis.
It is to your advantage to have an understanding of basic roofing fundamentals, even if you do not intend to do the work yourself because such knowledge can save you money when you deal with professional roofers. You will be able to appraise the work better as it is being done.
If you feel that laying a new roof or repairing a roof will be too complicated for you to handle, then contact a reputable roofing firm. Many are listed in the Yellow Pages, but you should check with the local Better Business Bureau about your choice before signing any contracts or making any commitments. The Better Business Bureau may have a file of complaints against the firm you choose (being in the Yellow Pages are only a listing, not a seal of approval). Never allow a door-to-door salesman to talk you into a “cut-rate” job. Very few reputable roofing firms do business this way.
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