Roofers Corpus Christi install, replace, and repair the roofs of homes and buildings. They use a variety of materials, including shingles, slates, asphalt, and metal.
They often have strong Realistic interests and tend to value a good work/life balance. They also have an aptitude for learning on the job or through apprenticeship programs.
Residential roofers typically ascend to high heights to perform installation or repairs on homes and other buildings. Because of the paramount safety concerns involved in this profession, a consistent enforcement of employer-directed fall protection protocols can help to prevent unsafe work practices from becoming commonplace in this workforce. However, the drive to complete projects quickly can also influence the priorities of residential roofers, who might be tempted to forgo key safety protocols like securing harnesses or properly positioning guardrails in favor of speedy completion of their assignments.
Retail sales roofers do normal roof replacements, and they usually have a customer service department that will assist you with scheduling and answering your questions. These types of roofers are typically insurance-focused and will offer you zero-percent financing, which can be appealing.
Commercial
Commercial roofers work on larger buildings, usually with a higher degree of complexity. They may be responsible for the installation, repair and maintenance of a variety of roofing materials including shingles, clay tile, metal, aluminum, asphalt shingle, mop-down, EPDM rubber and PVC membranes. These professionals also may install flashings and insulation as well as use glazing, cement or caulking to prevent leakage and rusting.
They often work with engineering firms, roof consultants and property managers who demand roofs of a specific type, within certain specifications and with a specific warranty, Skujins says. For example, many industrial clients will require that a flat roof be constructed from certain materials or with a particular construction method so they can qualify for tax credits.
While residential roofers work in crews, commercial roofers typically operate on an individual basis and are often required to have a high level of stamina due to the physically demanding nature of the job. They need to be able to climb and walk around the top of a building for extended periods of time in all types of weather.
Skujins advises potential commercial roofers to start out bidding on smaller jobs so they can build up their knowledge and expertise before taking on the higher profile work. He also suggests that commercial roofers focus on establishing strong relationships with clients because it will help them win bigger jobs in the future. For instance, if he bids on a project and is not chosen, he will try to make sure the client knows that he was a close second or third in the bid process because he established a strong relationship. Then, he can work with them to come up with an agreement that will benefit both parties.
Industrial
Industrial roofers install, repair, and maintain the roofs of industrial buildings. These types of roofs require more robust materials and designs due to the nature of the building’s occupancy and activities. Additionally, industrial roofs often need to support solar panels or other energy-efficient features.
Roofing contractors that offer full-service installation, repair, and maintenance can fabricate their own sheet metal components rather than purchase them from a vendor. This speeds up construction time and allows them to pass the savings on to customers.
In addition to installing new roof systems, industrial roofers perform inspections to evaluate the condition of existing roofs and identify any potential issues or vulnerabilities. They also use specialized equipment to detect leaks and other problems. Inspecting roofs is an important part of the overall maintenance process and ensures safety during roofing activities. Additionally, industrial roofers must comply with all relevant safety standards and regulations.
Roofing Repair
While any part of the house takes a beating from the elements, the roof is typically where the heaviest assaults are experienced. Rain, hail, sleet, snow, bitter cold, hot sun, and the occasional flying object or fallen tree can all take their toll.
Repairing a roof isn’t as simple as just replacing the damaged shingles, though. Depending on the roofing materials and extent of the damage, it could take several days to complete a full reroofing job.
The first step is assessing the damaged area, which will usually be apparent from within the home. Look for stained ceilings, deteriorating insulation, or other signs of leaks. You may also notice that some areas of the roof are warmer or cooler than others, which can be a sign of roof damage.
Next, remove any debris that’s blocking access to the damaged areas of the roof. If the flashing (thin metal that’s often hand-bent around parts of the roof, like pipes) is damaged, try to remove any nails and sealant from it, then re-bend and re-seal it.
Roofing Maintenance
Your roof is the first line of defense between your living environment and outside elements. Even small problems can escalate quickly, becoming expensive to repair. Regular maintenance by a qualified roofing professional can prevent these issues and help you avoid costly repairs down the road. During a maintenance visit, the roofing professional can inspect the entire roof and document conditions with a checklist. The checklist will be tailored to each individual facility. It will include pictures, roof dimensions and applied systems. A detailed inspection of the flashings (where a majority of leaks originate) should also be done. Lastly, the field should be inspected for surface wear, lap integrity and overall degradation.
The gutters should be inspected and downspouts cleared of debris to ensure proper flow of water. Trimming large tree limbs that hang over the roof can be a good way to protect it from damage during heavy storms and natural disasters.
They Have Financing Options
Roofers help keep buildings protected by installing, repairing, or replacing their roofs. They work with a variety of materials, including shingles and bitumen. This in-demand career is perfect for people who enjoy climbing to high heights, working with their hands, and solving problems. Typically, roofers complete a high school diploma and pursue an apprenticeship or trade school to learn their craft. Some even have specialized certifications for specific types of roofing.
Many roofers offer financing for their services. Large, nationwide companies often have their own in-house financing providers. This helps make the entire process easier for homeowners, as they can get approved and receive funds in as little as 24 hours. These companies also tend to have lower interest rates than credit cards, and you won’t be penalized for paying back your loan early.
Besides offering their own financing, most roofers partner with third-party lenders to provide loans for roofing projects. Some lenders, like Upgrade, specialize in home improvement financing, so they know what it takes to finance a roof project. Their online application is easy, and they don’t charge a prepayment penalty for paying your loan off early.
If you’re not comfortable with a personal loan, you may be interested in a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Similar to a credit card, you can borrow up to a certain limit, and the interest you pay is tax-deductible. However, HELOCs require you to pledge your home as collateral, so it’s best used for long-term or surprise expenses.
Another option is to use a credit card with 0% interest for six or 12 months. This can be a good way to fund your roof, but you should be aware of the APR after that promotional period ends. Additionally, most credit cards will charge a transaction fee when you make a purchase, which can add up over time.
