PM Schlüssel

In Charleston, the shimmering heat emerging from the terra-cotta tiles defines summer rather than the calendar’s definition. Here, Roofing Charleston tell stories; some of them seem to be worn-out pirate maps. If you have lived beneath one, you are familiar with every leak, every creak, every dark patch that seems to threaten at the first thunderstorm.

For a time let’s discuss storms. They show up quickly and can leave you wishing you had bought that improved shingle, the one your neighbor swore by during that historic 2009 hailstorm. Most people wait until rain falls on the living room before asking for assistance. Who would want to spend money merely because some old shingles were sunbathing? Those Charleston showers, though, are unrelenting. Wood and water are not buddies for very long.

Choosing a roofer around here is like trying fishing in muddy waters. Yes, you will ultimately draw someone, but it might be a boot rather than a bass. Though Cousin Joey promises to “get “er done” for a twelve-pack and a ride home, stick with real experts unless you like patchwork chic. Inquire about this. Word spreads fast in this city; if someone does poor job, you will hear about it inside a week—usually from the chatty BBQ gathering down the block.

More often than you would believe, material counts. Metal is making a comeback; please, there are no more barnyard jokes; it weathers hurricanes better than grandma’s pecan pie recipe. That is just one choice, though. Shingles, clay tiles, shake: everyone has a view. Dewayne, my neighbor, like traditional asphalt. It keeps the sun out and the squirrels puzzled, he says. I know nothing about the squirrels, but his house remains dry.

Maintenance crept in while you were not looking. Sun finishes tiles till they break. More quickly than you could say, “Spanish moss,” moss takes over Leaves like they are organizing a compost celebration fill gutters. Ignore little repairs; before long, you will be paying for all new plywood—a situation none particularly like—wallets, least of all.

Though they seem almost as exciting as a root canal, inspections are really great. Every spring look for loose bits, curled edges, granule loss, or chimney leaks. If you enjoy a little adventure, pack binoculars; just be careful not to lean too far. If you are not qualified for the work, hire someone. Better safe than trying to explain to your partner why you are using crutches.

Insurance can be really difficult. After a given age, some Charleston insurers insist on upgrades. Make some calls before hurricane season if your policy treats you with stink-eye when renewing. A blue tarp ceiling fluttering all summer is not as peaceful as mental peace.

Colors also have a statement value. Go on boldly; you are the street peacock. Keep with neutrals; you will mix in like sweet tea at a Sunday picnic. Your roof is what you will be staring at long after the color fad disappears faster than a lunchtime shrimp po’ boy.

Ask questions, expect unambiguous responses, and avoid hurrying the process. A good roof won’t stay forever, but prudent decisions literally and symbolically help to lighten a load from your shoulders. Apart from that, Charleston is involved. Our houses should look absolutely beautiful, rain or shine.