Roofing Repairs? Helpful Information For First-Time Homeowners


Roof repairs can be one of the most worrisome things first-time homeowners deal with because they understand that a leaky roof leads to much larger problems, including mold and structural damage. If you are a first-time homeowner facing the problem of roofing repair for the first time, this information can help you understand your options and make the best decision for both your family and budget. 

Inspections can provide detailed information

Whether you notice visual damage to your shingles or experience the unpleasant problem of finding a leak or water stain inside your home, your first action should be to quickly take steps to determine the scope of the problem so that you can plan for any needed roofing repairs. One of the best ways to determine both the current condition of your roof and how any damage will need to be resolved is to schedule an immediate roof inspection with a reputable roofing contractor in your area. 

During the inspection, the roofing contractor will conduct a visual inspection of the roof surface, as well as look in the attic to determine whether there the underlayment, rafters, and supportive structure of the roof have been impacted. Once the inspection is complete, the roofing contractor can provide the homeowner with a detailed explanation of the damage and an itemized bid for bringing the roof back into good condition. 

Home insurance policy coverage may apply

Another thing you will need to know as a first-time homeowner dealing with a roofing repair issue is that you may have some level of coverage under your home insurance policy. Because of this, it is important to contact your insurance broker as soon as you suspect that the roof will need to be repaired or replaced. Getting the best results from a claim against your home insurance policy can become a negotiation process, so it is important that homeowners carefully document proof of the roof damage, including photos, dates, times, and information about causative events that may have occurred, such as wind damage, snow load, or hailstone impact. 

Simple repairs or a larger reroofing project

If the damage to the roof is found to be confined to a small area, such as a small number of damaged shingles from the impact of a tree limb, the repair may only require replacing a few shingles. However, even more, extensive damage may have occurred, such as when an entire section of the roof has experienced extreme damage due to exposure to sunshine or extreme temperatures. In cases like this, replacing a single section or side of the roof may be all that is needed to postpone a more extensive roof replacement project. 

Homeowners may also be able to have a second layer of roofing shingles installed over the existing ones. This process, commonly called reroofing or recovering, can be significantly less expensive than putting on a completely new roof, but there can also be downsides to doing so. For instance, each layer of roofing adds weight to the structure and will absorb and hold more heat in very hot or sunny conditions, a process that can cause shingles to degrade faster than they otherwise might.

First-time homeowners who want to make the best possible decision regarding their home's roofing repair needs should take time to discuss their situation with a reputable roofing repair contractor as soon as possible. Contact a roofing repair service for more information.

About Me

The Life and Work of Roofers

Your home would not be a home without a roof. A good roof keeps the rain out, provides some insulation against sunlight, and does not easily become damaged when exposed to snow or ice. The roof was put in place by a roofer, who was probably one of the hardest-working people you'll ever meet. Who else can say they stand all day on a pitched surface and perform physical labor? Days as a roofer are long and hot, but we are all thankful for the work these professionals do. On this blog, you can learn more about roofers, their work, and their lives.

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