Columbus Roof Repair is not a job you want to tackle on your own during a hailstorm(opens in new window), torrential rain or a blizzard. A professional roofer will have the proper tools, ladders and safety equipment to safely assess the damage and make repairs.
Regularly inspect the flashing around chimneys, skylights and roof windows for cracks or breaks in the sealant. This can allow water into your home and cause serious problems.
During a regular roof inspection, you should be on the lookout for shingle damage. Missing shingles, curled edges and cracks can compromise the integrity of your roof, leaving it vulnerable to water leaks. If you notice any shingle damage, promptly call your roofing contractor for a repair estimate.
It’s generally easier to fix a single damaged shingle than to replace an entire section of your roof, especially when the underlying material is still intact. You can usually patch a small crack or tear by applying a roofing sealant to the affected area. Be sure to use a high-quality roof sealant that is specifically designed for your shingle type. This will ensure the repair is waterproof and durable.
In addition to repairing cracked and torn shingles, you should also look for granule loss and cupping. If a shingle loses its granules, it becomes more susceptible to sun and weather damage, and will have a shorter useful life than a shingle with its full complement of granules. Cupping shingles have concave centers that create a bowl for water to sit in, which can lead to leaks into your home.
When identifying shingle damage, it’s important to note that homeowners insurance may cover some or all of the repair costs depending on the cause of the damage and your policy details. You should always consult with your American Family insurance agent to ensure you have a complete understanding of what is covered and what is not, so you can make the best decisions about how to proceed with a claim if necessary.
During your inspection, it’s important to be careful not to overexert yourself or become too comfortable working on the roof. It’s also best to work on a warm, dry afternoon, as shingles are more pliable and less likely to crack when they are in good condition. Before beginning a roof repair, always carefully set up your ladder to avoid falls and injury. Once you’ve safely reached the damaged shingle, position a flat pry bar underneath it to gently lift it away from its neighbors. You’ll then be able to remove the nails holding the shingle.
Extensive Storm Damage
A severe storm can wreak havoc on a roof, causing extensive damage in the form of dents, punctures, and leaks. These problems can compromise the structural integrity of the roof and lead to water infiltration into the building, promoting mold growth and degrading interior and exterior materials. As a result, it’s important to know what types of storm damage require immediate attention and how to identify them.
Look for shingle damage, including bent or buckled shingles and broken tabs at the shingle edges. Also check for granule erosion, which is normal if your roof is several years old but becomes more noticeable after a severe storm. If you notice any of these issues, call for a professional inspection right away.
In addition to missing or damaged shingles, look for signs of dislodged flashing around chimneys and vents and skylights. This can cause impact damage and leaking and should be repaired immediately.
Heavy rains and extended exposure can also damage the underside of your roof, causing moisture infiltration into the building structure. This can damage ceilings, walls, and interior furnishings, as well as pose health hazards and promote mold and mildew. Contacting a professional after a severe storm to address these issues quickly is crucial to minimizing water damage and the subsequent costs for repair.
If you’ve noticed extensive damage, it’s a good idea to hire a professional roofing contractor for an insurance claim assessment and comprehensive storm damage repair. These professionals can accurately assess the extent of the damage, provide repair estimates, and even assist with insurance claim processing. This can make the entire process easier and more efficient, while helping ensure that you receive full compensation for your claim. Moreover, working with an experienced roofing company that’s familiar with Ohio’s unique weather patterns can help you navigate the entire process. Additionally, you may be eligible to claim a tax deduction under IRS Section 179, which can greatly offset the cost of repairs.
Fascia Damage
A fascia is the long, straight boards that run along a roof’s lower edge. These boards are designed to support guttering, seal off the attic space from moisture, and protect the edges of the roof from water damage and pest infestation. In addition to serving a practical function, fascia boards also add an attractive finished appearance to the roofline of the home. Like shingle and gutter systems, the soffit and fascia need to be regularly maintained and repaired in order to avoid serious damage and structural issues later on.
Signs of damage to soffit and fascia include soft spots, rot, and discoloration. When left unchecked, these signs can lead to costly problems for the roofline and entire home structure. As such, it’s essential to be vigilant about recognizing these signs and taking action as soon as possible.
Although some homeowners may choose to handle soffit and fascia repair on their own, this is often a complicated project that requires expert expertise. Whether it’s assessing hidden damage, ensuring the integrity of the structure, or dealing with gutter systems, the complexities involved in this type of repair make it best left to professional roofing specialists in the Coulee Region.
Some of the most common causes of soffit and fascia damage are poor ventilation, water infiltration, or pest infestation. To help prevent these issues, it’s important to ensure proper ventilation, keep the gutters clean and free of debris, and seal any gaps or cracks with caulking to prevent moisture infiltration. It’s also a good idea to trim any overhanging tree branches and periodically repaint or stain the fascia to further protect it against weathering and damage. Investing in the repairs needed to protect the integrity of the soffit and fascia is well worth the investment when it comes to protecting the entire home structure and enhancing curb appeal.
Routine Maintenance
Your roof is a vital part of your home’s protective covering that shields the inside from rain, wind and snow. Like your HVAC system and the lawn, it needs regular inspections and maintenance to ensure proper function. If you have an issue with your roof, proactive repairs can save money and extend the lifespan of your home’s roofing materials.
Routine maintenance includes removing debris, such as branches, leaves and moss from your roof and gutters to prevent blockages and damage. This prevents water from pooling on your roof and protects against rot and mold. It’s also important to keep up with your roof’s maintenance, such as repairing missing shingles and resealing flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights and exhaust fans. Inspecting the areas around these penetrations helps prevent leaks during high winds and storms.
When conducting a visual roof inspection, look for signs of moisture damage such as stains or mold growth. This can indicate a leaking roof or inadequate attic ventilation. Insufficient ventilation leads to moisture build-up and ice dams in winter. Having it inspected and fixed will help to prevent costly repairs in the future.
A professional will inspect your roof to assess any potential damages and repair them quickly to avoid more extensive and expensive issues in the future. In addition to preventing leaks, regular inspections can also save energy costs by reducing the amount of heat that is lost through your roof.
It’s also a good idea to maintain documentation of the inspections and maintenance performed. This can be helpful in case of a warranty claim or when selling your home. A record of routine maintenance will help to demonstrate that your roof has been well cared for and is in good condition. This is essential to protecting your investment and ensuring that any warranties remain valid.