Residential roofing appears to be a boring topic.

Except for roofing contractors or other residential roofing specialists, who would want to talk about residential roofing? Home owners should. The roof is one of the most important aspects of a home. So it's essential for homeowners to be up to date on the subject of residential roofing at least as far as it pertains to their own residence.

Location, location, location is often discussed as the #1 rule in real estate, it's just as important when it comes to residential roofing. Needs for roofs vary by region and include such elements as need to withstand tree limbs, wind resistance, fire resistance, ability to withstand or to allow snow to slide off, and even color when it comes to a good looking roof for the area. Residential roofing needs are quite different in New Hampshire than they would be in Los Angeles. For home buyers it's important to understand the features and maintenance needs of the roof. For those who build homes, especially if they serve as their own general contractor, choosing the right roofing material for the region is essential.

Since it's more common for a homeowner to purchase a home complete with a pre-installed residential roofing system, let's examine some maintenance practices that ensure best performance and longest life from the roof. Timing is right at the top. Proper maintenance should begin the second the roofing system is finished. This will ensure a long term savings. Immediate maintenance includes inspecting the work and checking the contractor's license, insurance, and whether all aspects of the roofing system were installed to manufacturer's specifications and to local government guidelines.

After six months to a year the roof should be inspected for debris such as sticks, leaves, and even garbage such as aluminum cans, and those debris removed. This should be repeated at least yearly. Also make sure the gutters are cleaned at least once a year to ensure proper drainage. If the residential roof can't drain, it will develop leaks. Some of the issues associated with leaks are damaged property and even a ruined home due to mold.

Pipe boot, the material at the bottom of vent and other pipes on the roof, often require replacing after only a few years. Many states require pipe jacks made out of lead, and this will last longer than the roof. But some states, including Oklahoma, don't require lead pipe jacks.

Many roofers convince home owners that the entire roof needs replacing even when there's only a tiny leak. That's nonsense. And the best way to avoid the scam is to have the roof inspected twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. An easy way to remember to have the residential roofing inspected is to do it when the clocks spring forward and fall back.