6 Roof Problems That Require A Contractor
Dealing with roof leaks, damage, or old age, can be frustrating and expensive. This often leaves homeowners searching for ways to save a few bucks while repairing their roofs.
However, DIY roofing solutions don’t always work. And you may find yourself in the same spot in a few years, once again needing roof repairs.
Rescue My Roof has worked with homeowners for over a decade, helping them achieve a roof that protects their home and doesn’t break the bank.
This article will go over roof problems that genuinely need a roofing contractor to be repaired right, and several financing options. Ultimately, you’ll know the safest and most cost-effective ways to go about roof repairs.
6 Roofing Issues That Require Professional Repairs
DIY roofing solutions may save a few bucks now, but they’ll cost more in the future.
DIY roof repairs are often temporary solutions to your problems. And because they are not done to a professional standard, they will need to be revisited sooner than a professional repair.
To avoid voiding warranties or causing more damage to your home (costing more money in the long run), it’s best to let roofing professionals handle your repairs.
Here are several roofing issues homeowners don’t want to tackle alone.
1. Roof Leaks
A leaking roof is one of the most common roofing problems that homeowners face. It can happen due to a number of different reasons, but regardless of why it’s happening, it’s frustrating.
Untreated roof leaks can cause expensive damages and, if left for too long, structural problems.
There are a number of reasons why your roof might be leaking, so it’s important to make sure and keep an eye out for water damage regularly. Signs of water damage or leaks can usually be seen near your chimney, around the flashing, near gutters and skylights, in valleys, or close to vents.
Some of the most common causes of a roof leak include cracked flashing, broken shingles, or structural damages to tiles or slate. If you notice any signs of a roof leak, call a professional for a comprehensive inspection.
Many homeowners attempt to solve roof leaks on their own by using Flex Seal. However, flex seal is not recommended for use on your roof.
Additionally, it’s more difficult than you think to accurately locate the cause of a roof leak. To get an accurate diagnosis and effective repair, call a roofing contractor to deal with all roof leaks.
2. Damaged Shingles
Damaged shingles is arguably the most common roofing problem that homeowners see and experience. Shingles can be damaged from heavy storms, debris, sun exposure, or even just the passing of time.
While damaged shingles don’t seem like they would be a pressing matter, they expose your roof and make it more susceptible to damage. The longer damaged shingles go unfixed, the more likely you’ll experience problems that go deeper than the surface.
Homeowners often assume nailing more shingles to their roof is an easy fix. However, there are several mistakes that can be made along the way.
Using the wrong nails, accidentally nailing through the roof, using too much caulk, and more can lead to further leaks and damage. And eventually, more will need to be repaired than just the damaged shingle, costing the homeowner more money.
Calling a contractor to properly match the existing shingle, install it properly, and protect your warranty is the only way to guarantee no future issues.
3. Damaged Flashing
The flashing around your roof helps to keep those protruding or awkward areas sealed and protected from water damage or leaks. It’s installed on areas around your chimney, any sky lights, the venting pipes, or heating and cooling systems that are located on the roof.
Flashing needs to be properly attached and secured, otherwise you’ll experience problems from the start. When flashing gets damaged, the seams that seal your roof and any protruding structure open up and can cause a number of different problems.
Flashing can be difficult to install and leaves room for a lot of roof damage. If your flashing is rusted and needs repair, always call a roofing contractor.
4. Roof Ventilation
Your roof is an integral part of your home’s ventilation system. When ventilation isn’t working properly, it can lead to problems outside and inside your home.
Poor ventilation causes moisture to accumulate in your attic and raises the internal temperature of your home. Over time, this can lead to damage to your sheathing, shingle deterioration, insulation problems, structural damage to rafters, and high energy costs.
In the winter, it can contribute to ice dams, which are both structural issues and safety issues. A roofing inspection can tell you whether or not your roof ventilation is up to standards, but if you notice any problems always call.
5. Improper Roof Repairs
If you’ve already attempted a DIY roof repair and noticed your roof is still leaking, it’s time to call a professional that has the proper certifications.
Improper repairs lead to even more expensive situations and create unsafe environments for you and your family. If you need any roofing repairs, always use a trusted roofing professional like the ones at Rescue My Roof.
6. Poor Installation
Finally, one of the most frustrating causes of common roofing problems is improper or poor installation from the beginning.
If you have inexperienced or unskilled workers installing your roof, it’s going to lead to a myriad of different problems down the line. While you might save a few dollars upfront with a cheaper company, you can easily end up paying more in repairs down the line. It’s worth it to spend a few extra dollars and ensure that your new roof is installed properly the first time around.
Financing A Roof Replacement or Repairs
Roof replacements and repairs can be expensive. So when you can’t save money doing it yourself, what should you do?
There are several payment options for homeowners. Take a strong look at payment lengths, interest rates, and your budget to find out what you can handle monthly. That will give you a strong foundation when you look at the actual numbers of the different financing options.
Depending on what options you choose (credits cards, loans, or third party financing), you can work directly with your roofing company and the financing options they provide. Or, you can work with your personal bank or credit card to take out the loans best suited to your needs.
Call your bank, roofing contractors, and credit card companies of your choosing to get a good feel for who you want to work with. Learn more with “6 Ways to Pay For A Roof Replacement” and “How Much Does a Roof Replacement Cost?”If you are looking at financing through a roofing company in southeastern Wisconsin, we are here to help! Contact Rescue My Roof today to get a free estimate.