Best roofers near Mountain Lake, MN

Using a staple gun to hang Christmas lights on your roof or shingles is not recommended. Puncturing your roof with staples can cause damage, leading to cracks, leaks, and exposure to the elements. Staples are also less reliable than other methods like roof clips. For a safer alternative that won't damage your roof, use shingle tabs.

Roof raking can damage shingles if improperly done. Be sure to use a rake that’s designed specifically for removing snow from a roof, and don’t use excessive pressure. Light, consistent pressure to pull down the bulk of the snow is all that’s needed—if you clear right down to the shingles, you’re probably using too much force and risking roof damage.

Architectural shingles typically last between 20 and 30 years, though most homeowners should plan on replacing them every 20 to 25 years. While some manufacturers offer warranties for 30 to 50 years, especially for extreme weather, achieving such a long lifespan is rare. The actual lifespan can be shorter in areas prone to strong winds, hailstorms, or other extreme weather. It is recommended to replace your roof before it reaches the end of its life to reduce the risk of roof failure, leaks, and costly property damage. Scheduling regular roof inspections will help you determine your roof's remaining life and identify the best timeline for replacement.

Most traditional lenders will not loan against a house with a leaking roof, and some lenders won’t lend against a home with a roof near the end of its lifespan. If the roof on your new home is in poor condition, you may need to have the seller offer a credit for a roof replacement after closing, or you can opt for a renovation loan—also called a 203k loan—to bundle the house and the roof replacement into one loan.