A well-maintained roof keeps you safe from the elements. If you've got roof problems, bad weather puts your home at risk. Knowing how to care for your roof can really save you money and time in the future. Consider the following tips about roofing so that you're well-prepared.

Check that a prospective roofing contractor carries liability insurance. If for no other reason, this lets you know that your roofer is professional and reliable. If something does happen, their insurance will cover the bills.

If you've called a roofer, but their visit isn't for another couple days, use a type of temporary fix on the leaky roof. Nailing heavy plastic to the area can help. This is not the most effective way to deal with leaks, but it will tide you over for the time being.

Do not make changes to your roof that are not long-term. It's cheap, but will lead to expensive problems. The best thing to do is take care of any problem as quickly as you can so that nothing bad happens later on.

Ask your roofer about warranties on his work. Some companies will provide better coverage than their competitors. Obtain a written warranty with your estimate so that you're in possession of all the proper information. That allows you recourse if anything happens.

You always want to ask for references from any roofing companies you are considering doing business with. If the company is honest, they will not hesitate to provide them. If a company is reluctant to do so, you might want to look into another roofing contractor. This is a red flag.

Don't hire a contractor unless they can give you proof of up to date insurance and licensing. If they aren't able to, don't think about hiring them. If you hire them, you could cost yourself a lot of money.

When replacing the roof, consider shingles that are architectural. These shingles are more attractive than regular shingles, and have a longer lifespan. Using architectural shingles for your roof could also increase the value of your home when you decide to sell it.

Never allow a contractor to work on your roof that doesn't appear to be professional in nature. For instance, the contractor should give you a written quote. You will want to make sure the whole process is professional from the very beginning.

Always inspect the materials that are being used to repair or replace your roof for possible defects. Damaged shingles are prone to cracking and it's easier to catch damage before the shingles are used on the roof. Be sure that all materials are in good condition before and after all repairs.

Don't agree to anything that is not written down. Many times people enter into verbal contracts with roofers, and they end up having issues if the work is not done correctly. Having a contract is the only way for you to prove that they have not held up their end of the bargain.

Talk to your family and friends about recommendations if you're seeking out a roofer. Personal experiences of others can be terrific resources for locating good contractors. If you've worked with area contractors in the past, they might also be able to recommend someone to you. They may at least have the ability to send you to the right people.

Homeowners who have repaired or replaced their roof can tell you how hard it is to cope with the results of poor maintenance. With the knowledge you've gotten here, you are now better prepared to deal with these moments. You should do more research on the specific problems you run into and find the best solutions possible.