There are several reasons why it’s worth it to hire a professional roofer instead of attempting it yourself. The first is safety. Roofing is inherently dangerous, as a fall from a roof could seriously injure or kill you. Roofers have specialized equipment and training to help prevent accidents.  

Next is experience. Roofers know how to spot problems (leaks, missing shingles, moss or mold growth, etc.)  in your roof that could potentially save you from costly repairs down the road. 

And finally, roofers save you time by getting the job done quickly and with a high degree of quality.

Some of the signs that indicate you need a new roof include cupping, warping and peeling asphalt shingles, as well as cracks on certain shingles. Other warning signs may include:

• Leakage
• Exposed nails 
• Missing granules
• Droopy, sagging roof
• Moss, mold or fungi growth 

A metal roof may need to be replaced when it grows rusty and begins leaking. Tile roofs made of clay, slate or concrete need repairs when cracked. Cleaning and inspecting the roof regularly can help prevent major damage from occurring. 

Contact the best roofers near you to inspect, repair or replace your roof.

It’s not customary or required to tip roofers. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t tip, but it is generally not expected. If you do decide to tip, you can give the tip to the foreman or distribute it yourself. 

Another idea to show your appreciation is to surprise the crew with coffee, water, snacks, breakfast or lunch when they arrive at the worksite. 

Choosing a roofer starts by reading reviews online. Compare customer ratings of roofing contractors and companies to identify pros with a good track record of craftsmanship and customer relations. Some reviews may also have photos of completed roofing jobs.

Many states require a license for someone to do roofing work, so make sure the companies you’re considered are licensed. Also, look for contractors and companies with several years of experience. 

Before you make your final choice, contact several roofers near you to get free estimates and quotes. Ultimately, choose the roofer that will do high-quality work for a reasonable price. 

Homeowners insurance generally covers roof replacement if the roof is damaged by a natural disaster or a sudden accident, according to Investopedia. However, insurance companies often won’t cover roof replacement costs if the roof is older than 20 years. Read your insurance policy to find out what types of roof repairs or damages are covered.

The best roofing material for your home will depend on your budget and what you’re looking for. If you want a roof that has longevity, consider the following lifespans for different materials: 

Source: InterNACHI

There are a variety of roofing materials available and appropriate for residential applications. When choosing roofing materials, it's essential to consider the look you want, your budget and the climate in your area. 

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular types of roofing materials because they are affordable and relatively easy to install. They come in various colors and styles designed to last decades if properly maintained. Asphalt shingle roofs also have a higher fire resistance than other roofing materials (like wood shakes), making them an ideal choice for homes in areas prone to wildfires or other natural disasters. 

Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular because they offer superior durability, fire-resistance and energy efficiency compared to traditional asphalt shingle roofs. They are available in various colors and styles, making them a good option if you want more customization options. Metal roofs also require less maintenance than other types of roofing materials. 

Tile roofs are an excellent option for homeowners looking for long-term durability and multiple style options. Tile roofs can have great longevity with proper maintenance, making them an ideal choice for those who don’t want to replace their roof too often. Tile roofs typically cost more than asphalt shingle or metal roofs, so if budget is an issue, this might not be the best option for you. Keep in mind that tile roofs are often made out of clay or concrete — both of which are durable.

Slate roofs are known for lasting a lifetime, which means you probably won't have to replace this type of roof. Slate is durable, a curb-appeal booster and a favorite among homeowners. Just keep in mind it can get a bit pricey.

No matter which type of material you choose, make sure that you hire a top-rated professional who knows how to properly install your home's new roof. Search Thumbtack for roofing contractors and companies in your area today.

Related: Buying guide: How to choose the best roof shingles.

A roof’s lifespan depends on two major factors: the material and how well the roof was installed. Assuming that the roof is installed properly, here’s how long different roofing materials should last:

• Asphalt shingle roof: 20 years
• Metal roof: 50 years
• Slate roof: 100+ years (lifetime)
• Clay roof: Lifetime
• Concrete roof: Lifetime
• Copper roof: Lifetime

Contact the best roofers near you to get free estimates and start planning your roofing project today.

Experts typically recommend that you have your roof professionally inspected at least once a year. But you also may want a licensed professional to inspect your roof during these circumstances: 

• You're buying or selling a home
• You're filing an insurance claim
• Before or after a contractor does major work on your roof

Search the Thumbtack site for experienced roof inspectors near you. You can contact them directly to set up a time to conduct the inspection, and learn more about their pricing structure and services.

Roof inspectors are trained to look for signs of a failing roofing system that could lead to damage — especially water and structural damage. Your home's roofing materials may look great from the ground, but it's difficult to see potential damage unless you take a closer look. A roof inspector can do just that.

During an inspection, the professional will typically look for issues that may have occurred during installation and manufacturing. They’ll also keep an eye out for damage caused by normal wear and tear, as well as extreme weather events. They might also access your attic to see if there are signs of a leak in your roof.

Here’s a short list of common things a contractor will look out for during a roof inspection: 

• Damage caused by hail, wind, snow and rain
• Missing, broken, buckling, curling or cracked shingles 
• Roof decay, rot, moss, mildew and mold
• Rust around the flashing
• Damaged chimneys and vents
• Holes, gaps and punctures that could cause a roof leak
• Water stains and ventilation issues

Hiring a roofing inspector prevents you from having to do the dangerous work of climbing onto your roof. Plus, inspectors know how to assess potential damage and determine the best way to repair your roof and prevent the need for more expensive repairs in the future. Start searching for a roof inspector on Thumbtack today.

Metal roofing installation is an attractive option thanks to metal’s long lifespan, hardiness and fire-retardant properties. Nationally, the average cost for metal roofing installation ranges from $6,000 to $20,000.There are different types of metal roofs, each with their own installation needs and materials costs. Roof size also affects your metal roofing installation costs, as do regional labor rates. Roof size is measured in squares; one square equals 100 square feet. Here are some examples of the average cost for a metal roof:

• Standard metal roof: $120-$150 per square to start, including materials and labor
• A 30-square roof (a 3,000-square-foot roof) could cost between $3,600 and $4,500 for a typical three-bedroom home.
• Snap-Loc metal roof: $200-$225 per square to start, including materials and labor.
• A 30-square roof could cost $6,000-$6,750.
• Standing seam metal roof: $300 per square to start, including materials and labor.
• A 30-square roof could cost $9,000 or more.
• Tuff-Rib metal roof: $250-$350 per square to start, including materials and labor.
• A 30-square roof could cost $7,500-$10,500.
• Mid-range metal roof package, including all accessories: $300-$500 per square.
• A 30-square roof could cost $9,000-$15,000.
• High-end metal roof package — such as zinc or copper — and all accessories: $1,000-$1,500 per square.
• A 30-square roof could cost $30,000-$45,000.