▪ Be aware that packs of roofing shingles are very heavy. Either have your roofing contractor provide them or arrange for your material supplier to deliver them to the site.

▪ Junction points where roofing material meets wood siding or a chimney require special attention, for they are points where water could easily seep under the shingles. The solution is to use "flashing". Flashing is a piece of metal (commonly available at Home Depot or Lowe's) that is inserted behind the vertical structural element and on top of the roof shingles so that water will be directed properly. Be sure your roofing contractor flashes these areas where water could seep in. Be sure to ask the roofer how much flashing she estimates that you will need.

▪ When water travels down the face of a roof and meets your chimney, it should be diverted away by something called a "cricket". This is simply a V-shaped piece of material that streams the water around the chimney. Be sure to ask your roofing contractor how he plans to handle the area around the chimney.

▪ When tree branches are touching your roof, they need to be trimmed back by a qualified tree professional. The consistent contact between the branch and the shingles will eventually loosen the shingles.

Roof Installation and Repair - Part 1

Former builder and instructor of "Save Time and Money in Home Remodeling" cont. ed. course at Emory University