When it comes to your home’s roof, you can’t take any chances. That’s why it’s important to find a contractor with great references.
A “roofer” is anyone who works on roofs a licensed commercial roofing fort wayne indiana a general contractor who also does roofs or someone employed by a roofing company.
Damaged Roof
The most obvious sign that you need a roofing contractor is if your roof is damaged. Severe storms can dislodge shingles and knock loose debris that can cause structural damage.
Look for dents on your roof or around the house. These can be caused by hail, wind or heavy rains. Look also for shingle granules in the gutters or on the ground. It’s normal to lose a few granules over time but if you find large quantities it’s a sign that your roof is not protecting your home.
Drooping or sagging spots on your roof are signs of serious problems that can only be repaired by an experienced roofing contractor. You should also watch out for rotting boards and trapped moisture. If these are present, you need a new roof as soon as possible.
Leaky Gutters
Roofing contractors are a homeowner’s best choice for inspecting roof damage as they can offer a professional opinion and make repairs that an insurance adjuster may not consider. However, not all roofing companies are created equal and it is important to know how to spot a shady contractor before hiring one.
You should be very suspicious if a roofing contractor doesn’t provide a clear overview of the job costs. A good roofer will be happy to answer any questions you might have but they will also be able to give you a detailed breakdown of the work that is required. Likewise, be wary of any contractor that doesn’t offer an extensive workmanship warranty. This is a sure sign that they are not a trustworthy business.
Damaged Soffits
Soffits are not a major component of the roof but they serve a vital role in keeping pests and rodents out of your home. When they’re damaged, it’s usually a sign that they need to be replaced.
A soffit prevents rainwater from infiltrating the house by channeling it into gutters and downspouts. It also helps keep humidity and mold from rotting the rafters beneath the roof edge.
A soffit isn’t as exposed to the elements as shingles, but it still faces moisture and other problems like peeling paint. If you notice a soffit that’s rotting, has gaps or is covered in mildew its time for a roofing contractor. This is a serious problem that can lead to leaks, mold and infestations. It’s important to catch a problem like this early so that it doesn’t spread to the rest of your home.
Damaged Shingles
You should also keep an eye out for shingles that appear damaged or missing. This can be caused by a number of issues, including hail damage and lack of attic ventilation. Poor ventilation allows moisture to get trapped in your roof, which can cause shingle damage and staining of the sheathing.
A few cracked or missing shingles can usually be repaired, but if many are affected it may be time for a replacement. Another common sign that it’s time for a new roof is if you see moss growing on the surface. Moss can trap moisture against the shingles which can cause them to become damaged or even deteriorate. If you notice this, call Premier commercial roofing contractor for an inspection and estimate.
Damaged Flashings
Flashing is a thin waterproof material that covers more vulnerable areas of the roof like chimneys, valleys, skylights and vent pipes. These areas are prone to leaks if the flashing is damaged.
A professional roofer will be able to detect damage to the flashing by conducting a visual inspection from the ground. They will also take photos of all the roof-to-wall details like chimneys, skylights and pipe flashings.
Typical flashing damage includes rust spots and holes. The holes can be patched but larger gaps require new sections of flashing. Damaged flashing can lead to water intrusion into the home causing wood rot, ceiling staining and mold growth. This is an obvious sign that the flashing needs to be replaced. If left unattended the leaks can cause major structural damage to the home.
