To find out whether a roofer is an essential service provider during the COVID-19 pandemic, start by visiting your state or city’s government website. Local governments are providing up-to-date information for residents during this time.

A national guideline is available on CISA’s website, Identifying Critical Infrastructure During COVID-19. This page addresses 16 different categories of essential infrastructure sectors, but note that not all jurisdictions follow CISA’s definitions of critical infrastructure.  

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.

Because social distancing is important during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s recommended that you message roofers after narrowing down your choices through an online search of local roofers near you.

Ask if the roofer is willing to conduct an assessment via video chat rather than a traditional site inspection. Additionally, strategize on what other steps you can collectively take to make sure you’re following guidelines on social distancing during this time, including conducting a virtual payment.

If you decide to hire a roofer, choose virtual platforms like video chats instead of face-to-face consultations. When the roofer is working on your roof, avoid any physical contact, sanitize all involved spaces and surfaces, and use digital payments instead of cash or a check.

Digital payment platforms are common among roofers, roof repair companies and other services. The COVID-19 pandemic will likely cause more service providers to adopt platforms like PayPal, Zelle, Google Pay, Square Cash, Venmo and others instead of cash or check to decrease the risk of transmission.

You can typically find out whether roofers accept digital payments on their online profiles, and you should confirm this information with them during a consultation call.

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: 

Sources: The Spruce, NAHB

Contact the best roofers near you to get started on your roofing project today.

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.

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.