Fall is coming to Michigan, and you know what that means — before you know it the stores will be playing Christmas music already. Eventually, dads the state over will break out the ladders to string up Christmas lights in a festive attempt to out-do each other. Inevitably, some of them will find damage that requires residential roofing repair work.

If you need to remodel, repair, or even replace your Michigan roof, here are five residential roof repair tips to remember.

1. Before You Reach For The Ladder...

While your first instinct might be to break out the ladder and investigate your roof yourself, that kind of approach can be dangerous. Instead, try and locate a pair of binoculars and look for signs of damage, like clogged gutters, missing shingles, or cracked wood.

2. Check With Your Homeowner’s Association

About one in three homeowners (32% to be precise) belong to a homeowner’s association that restricts the color palettes they can use to remodel their homes. So before you plan expensive roof repair or home renovations, make sure you’re in the clear.

3. The Leak Is Coming From Inside The House!

While you should examine the outside of your home for damage, you can also look for damage from inside the home. If you suspect it’s time for new residential roofing, check attics and crawlspaces for signs of water damage, including soggy insulation, water stains, and warped wood.

4. Find The Best Roofing Michigan Has To Offer

That means only work with roofing companies in Michigan that are willing to put a contract in writing. If a residential roofing contractor tries to wiggle out of a contract, that should be a red flag.

5. Choose Roofing Materials Wisely

While most homeowners choose to simply replace their existing roofing material, you should consider the various roof repair costs associated with different options, like asphalt versus metal roofing. For instance, most asphalt requires roof repair every 12 to 20 years, and 88% of homeowners say durability is the most important factor when picking a new roof.

So if you find yourself in need of new residential roofing this year, talk to your Michigan roofing company carefully about the best options for your home.