Signs You Need A Roof Replacement

A sturdy roof protects your home from harsh weather conditions and keeps you and your family safe. However, even a well-maintained roof will eventually reach its lifespan.

It’s important to know when new Roofing Missoula MT is needed so you can prevent serious problems and costly damage. Here are some warning signs you should look out for.

roof replacement

Shingles Are Damaged

Shingles are the outer layer of your roof that protects your home. Over time, they can become damaged from weather conditions or general wear and tear. Damaged shingles can lead to leaks and other issues that need to be addressed immediately.

Water Stains or Leaks

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are a sign of a roof leak. Left unaddressed, a leak can cause severe damage to the interior of your home and lead to expensive repairs. If you notice any water stains, it’s important to contact a professional roofing contractor right away.

Missing Shingles

A missing shingle is an immediate sign of roof damage. This leaves your roof exposed to the elements, which can lead to more significant problems, such as structural damage and moisture infiltration. Missing shingles should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your roof and your home’s structure.

Blistering Shingles

Asphalt shingles can begin to shed their granules as they age, which can leave them vulnerable to damage. If you see shingles that appear to be losing their granules, it’s important to contact a roofing professional for an inspection. Blistering shingles are usually caused by moisture trapped on the roof, poor ventilation, or faulty installation.

Over time, shingles can develop concave centers and raised edges, called cupping or curling. This type of damage is usually caused by aging or excessive heat exposure from a poorly ventilated attic. Curled shingles provide a bowl-like shape for rain, snow, and ice to pool in, which can lead to moisture infiltration and costly repairs. When inspecting your roof, make sure to pay close attention to the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights to ensure that it’s still securely sealed.

Shingles Are Missing

Missing shingles create a gap in your roof’s protection. This gap can allow moisture, pests, and debris to enter your home. It can also lead to deterioration of the roof deck and a weakened roof structure. Additionally, it can cause a ceiling leak and decrease the energy efficiency of your home.

It’s important to check your roof regularly for signs of missing shingles. You can do a visual inspection using binoculars, or you can take the ladder up and look for yourself. If you’re missing a large area of your roof, then it’s likely time for a full replacement.

Another sign that your roof needs a replacement is if you see shingle granules in your gutters and downspouts. This is an indication that the shingles are becoming worn out and can be easily blown off during windy conditions. Missing shingles also mean that they’re no longer protecting your roof from the sun’s harsh UV rays.

You should also pay attention to the condition of your attic insulation if you find that your roof has been damaged by a missing shingle. Gaps in your attic insulation can allow water and cold air to penetrate your home, leading to damage to walls, ceilings, and even electrical systems.

If you’re missing a large amount of shingles, then it’s likely time to file an insurance claim and get a new roof. Your insurer will provide you with a list of qualified roofers who can perform the work at an affordable price. If you have no roofing experience, then you should enlist the help of a professional roofer who can ensure a thorough and safe job. A shingle repair or replacement can be performed quickly and will help protect your home from further damage and increase its value.

Shingles Are Loose

It’s obvious that missing shingles are bad news and should be replaced immediately. A roof is a unified protective force against weather, and without its shingles, your home may suffer severe water damage. Even if you’re only missing one shingle, though, it’s a sign that your roof needs attention.

Loose shingles can allow rain and other debris to enter your home, which is a problem if you live in an area with frequent rainfall or snowfall. A good way to spot loose shingles is to look at the bottom of your home’s exterior walls. If you notice dark streaks in the siding, that’s a sign of water damage caused by leaking shingles.

If you have a roof inspection done regularly, you can keep an eye out for loose shingles and repair them as soon as possible. You can use a flat pry bar to loosen the nails around the damaged shingle and gently pull it up, starting at the top edge. Next, you can slide the new shingle into place and secure it with roofing nails. Most shingles come with guide holes, and you can easily line up the new shingle with the existing ones surrounding it to nail it into place.

Another way to spot a faulty roof is to look for granule loss. Granules are the small black or grey bits that are embedded in shingles to add fire resistance, color, and UV protection. Losing some granules is normal, but excessive granule loss can indicate that the shingles are reaching the end of their lifespan. This can cause several problems, including bare spots on the roof and discolored gutters. If you notice this issue, contact a professional roofing contractor to have your roof evaluated.

Shingles Are Curling

When shingles curl, they start to lose their ability to protect your home. They become vulnerable to moisture and can lead to leaks, mold, and mildew growth inside your home, as well as a general rundown appearance. It’s not only unsightly to look at but can also reduce your home’s curb appeal and increase your energy bills.

Curling shingles are a clear sign that it’s time to get a roof replacement. While you may be able to repair some of them, most will likely need to be replaced to prevent future damage to your home and to avoid costly water leaks.

There are a few things that can cause shingles to curl, including improper installation, old age, and poor-quality roofing materials. If your shingles have started to curl, it’s important to contact your roofing contractor right away so that they can inspect the problem and make repairs if necessary.

Improper Installation

Roofing manufacturers have specific specifications for the way that their products should be installed. This includes the number of nails allowed per shingle, what type of nail is used, and even what outside temperatures are best for the shingles to be installed in. Failure to follow these guidelines not only increases the likelihood of shingle problems like curling but can also void your product warranty.

If your shingles are starting to curl, it’s a good idea to have them inspected by a professional. If you are comfortable climbing on your roof, you can perform a visual inspection yourself and assess the condition of your shingles. If you’re not comfortable doing this, you should hire a professional to help you determine whether a simple shingle repair or a full roof replacement is needed.

Shingles Are Cracked

A good quality asphalt shingle roof is designed to withstand the elements, but the sun and wind can cause damage. Two common signs of weather-induced roof damage are cracking and splitting. Both of these types of damage can increase the risk of leaks in your home, and both should be addressed by a roofing contractor.

Cracked shingles may not seem like a big deal at first glance, but they can lead to serious problems if left unaddressed. Cracks in shingles allow moisture to penetrate the roofing system and the underlayment of the roof deck. As the cracks continue to develop, they can weaken the integrity of the entire roof structure.

The most common reason a roof can begin to crack is because the shingles are reaching the end of their service life. This can occur for several reasons, including thermal cycling or the aging process. The cracks in this case are due to the shingle’s ability to expand and contract, which can cause stress on the granules. Over time, this can result in the shingle fracturing and separating from the adhesive strip at the bottom of the shingle.

Another potential cause of cracked shingles is improper installation. This can include using nails that are the wrong type, size, or spacing. This can also include the nail being driven into the shingle too far, which can cut into the shingle and create leaks in the future.

One of the most important things to look for when hiring a roofing contractor is to ensure that they use the correct nails for your particular roofing system. This includes the correct size, type, and spacing for the nail in the shingle, as well as the proper nailing pattern. This will help prevent the nail from cutting into and damaging the shingle or the underlayment of the roof.

The Importance of Roofing Maintenance

Maintaining a regular inspection routine and having minor problems addressed quickly can prevent them from escalating. Look for shingle damage, leaks, and the condition of flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, and other fixtures.

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Debris like patio furniture, lawn decorations, or loose tree branches can get swept up in strong winds and become wind-missiles that damage your roof. Regularly clearing debris helps reduce this risk. Contact Corpus Christi Roofing CO for professional help.

The most recognizable part of your roof, shingles protect your home from rain and other elements through a unique layering pattern. They also play a major role in your home’s curb appeal, allowing you to add a personal touch that complements your home’s architecture and style. In addition, shingle roofing offers sound insulation and energy efficiency. Choosing the right shingles can make all the difference in how your home fares against Tampa’s dynamic weather.

Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice among homeowners due to their affordability and ease of installation. These shingles are designed to be long-lasting, protecting your home from the elements for decades. In addition, they come in a variety of colors and textures to match your home’s aesthetics.

Wood shingles are another time-honored roofing material with a history dating back centuries. These shingles are known for their natural beauty, and they are naturally fireproof. Wood shingles must be kept in good condition, however, to ensure they are not damaged by water or rotted from exposure.

It is crucial to keep your shingles free of debris, including leaves and twigs, which can become trapped on the shingle and erode over time. In addition, clogged gutters can push this debris under the shingles, which can cause leaks and other damage to your home’s structure. Keeping your shingles clean will help extend their lifespan.

Regular inspections of your shingles will allow you to spot potential problems early and address them before they become more serious. This can prevent costly repairs in the future.

A professional roofer will inspect your shingles to check for cracks, deterioration and damage from the elements. He will also look for missing, buckling or displaced shingles and replace any that have become damaged or worn. He will also look for any loose or blown-off sections of your shingle roof and repair them using roofing cement and nails. He will also examine the flashing around chimneys, vents and skylights to make sure it is properly sealed and waterproof. He will also check for any signs of rust or other corrosion on the metal components of your roof.

Flashing

The flashing on a roof is important because it protects the crevices around protrusions on the surface and keeps water from seeping into those places. Without flashing, these areas can be prone to mold damage and leaks that can cause major problems for the house’s structure. Regular inspections and prompt repair of flashing issues can help to guard the integrity of the roof.

Flashing is a thin layer of impervious material that is often made of aluminum or galvanized steel. It is typically used to seal the seams between a wall and the roof, as well as at other points that require extra waterproofing protection. These include areas where the roof opens up to accept other features like chimneys or skylights.

These areas tend to see an unusually high volume of rainwater, so they need extra protection from moisture. Roofing companies frequently install flashing in these areas to prevent leaks. Flashing can be installed in a variety of ways, depending on the situation. For example, step flashing is used where the roof meets a vertical wall to direct rainwater away from the joint. This type of flashing consists of multiple pieces that are fitted together and covered with shingles.

Continuous flashing is another popular choice for these situations. It is a single strip of metal that extends over the whole joint to be waterproofed. It’s also commonly used for dormers and other protrusions on the roof. However, a long piece of continuous flashing could have trouble flexing with changing exterior temperatures, so it’s often installed in sections that can be easily replaced as needed.

Other types of flashing include chimney flashing and pipe flashing. These types of flashing are shaped to accommodate the specific dimensions of these structures, as well as their connecting materials. They can be installed in many different ways, but they all serve the same purpose: to ensure that the water that is channeled through the flashing stays where it belongs. These flashings may be a little more complicated to replace, but it’s still a good idea for homeowners to learn how to identify and replace these components when necessary.

Gutters

Gutters are the unsung heroes of home maintenance, protecting the foundation, walls, and other structures that make up your house from costly water damage. They effectively redirect water and prevent it from pooling or seeping under shingles, where it can cause rot, mold growth, and structural issues. Keeping up with gutter maintenance can help prevent these issues from developing, as well as preventing costly roof repairs in the future.

A gutter system consists of troughs that attach to the edge of a building’s roofline to collect and discharge rainwater. Rainwater travels down the shingles and flows into the gutter where it’s directed to a downspout, an accordion-looking pipe that sits vertically on the side of the building. The downspout channels the rainwater away from the structure and either dispenses it on the ground or into an underground drainage system that keeps your crawl space drier.

The job of gutters is to reroute water from the roof and prevent it from damaging the foundation and walls of your home. However, if they’re clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris, they won’t be able to do their work. This can lead to water overflow, saturating soil around the foundation of your house, and basement flooding.

This is why it’s important to clean your gutters regularly and inspect them for rust, leaks, and sagging parts. If you identify these issues, it’s important to take the necessary steps to correct them before they cause major damage to your roof and home.

Additionally, if you’re concerned about climbing up on a ladder to clean your gutters, consider hiring a professional roofing contractor. A reputable contractor will provide comprehensive cleaning and inspection services, as well as perform any needed repairs, to ensure your gutters function properly. This will keep your home safe from water damage and protect the longevity of your roof. It also helps to work with a roofing company that has experience and is licensed and insured. This will prevent any potential damages or accidents during the project, and save you money in the long run.

Chimney

A chimney is a part of the roof that allows smoke to go up into the air. It is a key structural feature of many homes and, like any other structure, it needs to be cared for. Chimneys help keep homeowners warm and comfortable throughout the year, so it is important that they receive proper care to maintain their function.

A poorly-maintained chimney can result in leaks and other problems for the roof and home. Fortunately, preventative measures are available to protect your chimney and avoid these issues. A regular inspection and cleaning can help keep your chimney working properly and help keep water and other debris from entering your home.

Chimney flashing is an essential component of a healthy roof. A chimney flashing system is made of metal sheets that are placed on the roof in a layered sequence. The first component is base flashing, which sits on the roof and is positioned underneath the shingles. The next component is step flashing, which runs up the sides of the chimney and overlaps with the base flashing. The final component is counter flashing, which is installed on top of the chimney and creates a seal to prevent moisture from entering the chimney.

If you are considering repairing or replacing chimney flashing, be sure to hire a professional roofer. It is important that the flashing is installed correctly to ensure that it is waterproof and to avoid future leaks and damage. If you notice any of the following signs of chimney flashing problems, be sure to contact a professional immediately:

One of the most common issues homeowners face is water stains on their ceilings. This can be caused by ice dams that form on the chimney and prevent water from draining off of the roof. These dams can also cause serious water damage in the house. Chimney flashing plays an important role in preventing this problem.

Another issue that can impact chimneys is deteriorating bricks. Bricks can become damaged by rain and other environmental factors, so it is important to replace them with high-quality bricks that are able to withstand the elements. When it comes to chimney maintenance, it is important to clean it regularly to remove any creosote or other debris that may be building up. It is also important to use only seasoned wood when burning fires because wet or green wood can lead to more creosote build-up in the chimney.

The Advantages of Roofing Companies

Roofing companies have experience with a wide range of roof materials and are able to help you choose the best one for your home. They can also help you save money on energy bills by installing more efficient roofs.

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They can also use their expertise to examine damage thoroughly and spot details homeowners might miss. This can prevent expensive, ineffective repairs. Contact Roofing Companies In Columbus Georgia for professional help.

Professionals are able to do their job well because they have a specialized body of knowledge and have received intensive training in their field. They are familiar with industry standards and practices, and can make sound judgments about the most efficient and cost-effective solutions. Professionals also understand the implications of their work, and take full responsibility for their decisions.

A roofing contractor’s professionalism is reflected in the way they conduct themselves at the job site. They follow proper safety protocols and make sure their workers are wearing the right equipment. They also respect the privacy of neighbors and limit noise levels to a minimum, so they don’t disrupt people’s daily lives.

Roofing contractors also display professionalism in their advertising and marketing materials. They provide accurate and comprehensive information about their services, and are honest about costs and timeframes. In addition, they have a good reputation and are well-respected in the community. They often obtain new customers through referrals from existing clients.

When selecting a roofing company, it’s important to look at their website or social media page to see photos of previous projects and customer reviews. It is also helpful to ask for references and a portfolio of past work. If a roofing company is unwilling to provide this information, it may be a red flag that they are not reliable.

Quality workmanship is an important aspect of professionalism, and a reputable roofing contractor will always produce high-quality results. They will use quality materials and ensure that the job is completed within the agreed upon timeframe. Moreover, they will be able to identify and address any potential problems that might arise during the project, thus saving the client both money and time.

Professional roofing contractors will also comply with local building codes and safety regulations, which is essential for the safety of their workers and the resale value of your home. They will also offer warranties on their work, which is a good indication of their confidence in the quality of their work.

Lastly, a professional roofing contractor will have a positive attitude toward their clients and crew. This includes their language and behavior, as well as how they dispose of old roofing materials. A positive attitude is essential for the success of any roofing project, and will help to ensure a smooth and pleasant experience for the homeowner.

Experience

The quality of roofing materials and the expertise in their installation determines how well a roof protects and enhances a property. Professional roofing companies use high-quality materials that withstand the elements and are expertly installed to ensure long-lasting protection and durability. Their experience enables them to foresee potential challenges and ensure that all aspects of a project are executed properly. This translates to a smoother construction process and superior roofing outcomes for their clients.

Roofing companies also have to manage a range of other tasks in order to keep their businesses running smoothly. This includes dealing with suppliers, managing inventory, and handling accounting items like payroll and taxes. In addition, owners may need to do sales presentations and meet with prospective clients to discuss their needs. Many of these tasks require specific skills that can be honed over time, which makes it important to hire an experienced roofing business that has a proven track record.

In addition, a roofing company should have the necessary licensing, insurance, and certifications to operate. They should also have a strong reputation in the local community and provide guarantees and warranties for their work. For example, the best roofing contractors have manufacturers’ warranties that cover shingles for over 30 years and guarantee their workmanship for five. They also offer free estimates and consultations to help their customers make informed decisions about the best roofing solution for their homes.

Contractors with extensive experience in the industry understand how important it is to follow safety standards on all jobs. This includes ensuring that all employees have the right equipment for their duties and keeping up with training in best practices. These measures can help prevent injuries and damage to property. Professionals should also be willing to walk a homeowner through the finished job to show them their work and answer questions.

In addition to ensuring the safety of their workers, a good roofing company will also ensure that the job is done in a timely manner. This can save homeowners time and money. Additionally, they will be able to anticipate when their roof will be completed, which can help them plan other aspects of a home renovation project more effectively.

Energy efficiency

In today’s environmentally conscious world, energy efficiency is a top concern for homeowners and businesses. Roofing Companies play an important role in this effort by optimizing their products to reduce a building’s energy consumption. From the materials used to the design of a roof, energy efficiency is essential for a building’s thermal performance.

Increasingly, the market is seeing a shift towards energy-efficient roofing solutions. These systems incorporate advanced materials designed to minimize heat absorption and improve a roof’s insulating capabilities. This leads to a reduced environmental impact and significant energy savings for Danville commercial buildings.

A reputable roofing company will also offer a variety of upgrades that further improve a roof’s energy efficiency. Solar panels, radiant barriers, and improved ventilation are just some of the many options available. These energy-efficient improvements can help a homeowner reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and increase the value of their home.

Energy-efficient roofing systems are a wise investment for homeowners. These roofs are designed to reflect sunlight and absorb less heat, which reduces cooling costs in the summer. They also insulate the home better, reducing heating bills during the winter. A reputable roofing company will recommend the best energy-efficient roofing system for a particular climate and home design.

In addition to reducing the need for artificial lighting, energy-efficient roofing systems can also enhance a business’s environmental sustainability initiatives and help them qualify for tax incentives. Additionally, they can decrease a company’s utility expenses and contribute to a healthy work environment.

Whether your roof is in need of repair or you’re looking for a new roof, a reputable roofing company will be happy to provide an expert assessment. Their experience will allow them to identify issues that could be affecting your energy efficiency and recommend the best course of action.

If you notice a spike in your energy bills, a roof inspection might be in order. A professional roofing company will evaluate your home’s insulation and air leakage to determine if the problem is caused by your roof. They’ll also recommend the best roofing material based on your specific needs.

Curb appeal

The physical appearance of a home’s exterior and yard play a big role in determining its curb appeal. Potential buyers will quickly walk away from a house that’s unappealing on the outside, even if its interior is immaculate. The best way to improve your home’s curb appeal is through regular maintenance and targeted improvements. For example, replacing a front door handle or lock set with something that’s newer and more stylish can boost the curb appeal of your home.

Roofing companies can help homeowners enhance the visual appeal of their homes by installing new roofs and other exterior features. They can also help maintain the value of a property and boost its marketability if it goes on the market in the future. Choosing the right color for a roof can dramatically change its overall look and feel, as well. While a white roof is an excellent choice for many homeowners, a variety of colors are available that can add character and appeal to a home.

In addition to roof color, curb appeal is also impacted by the shape and style of a home’s exterior and landscape. Adding or replacing garden beds, repairing the driveway and walkways, painting the house’s trim, and removing or replacing old light fixtures can all improve a home’s curb appeal. Even small changes can make a big difference, such as replacing the mailbox address with a new number that’s more attractive.

The aesthetics of a home are important, but so is its functionality. A roof that’s in good condition protects the inside of a home from weather and other external elements. It also communicates a sense of pride in homeownership and shows that a homeowner cares about the property.

Curb appeal is an essential component of any homeowner’s lifestyle and a major factor in a home’s value. It’s easy to overlook the importance of a home’s exterior, but keeping up with it can make a huge difference in a buyer’s perception of the property. It can also be the key to a faster sale and higher offer. Even if you don’t plan to sell your home in the near future, a home with great curb appeal will make it easier for you to enjoy living there now.

How to Properly Maintain and Repair Your Roof

The roof protects your home or building from moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew inside, rotting wood, higher heating and cooling bills, and lower resale value. Regular maintenance and periodic repair are the best ways to keep your roof healthy. Contact Columbus Roof Repair for professional help.

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Start with an outside examination, looking for leaks, water stains, moss, sagging or discolored shingles. Then inspect the flashing around vent pipes, dormers and chimneys.

Shingles are constantly exposed to sunlight and weather, so it’s no surprise that they will degrade over time. Fortunately, shingles are fairly easy to replace when they become damaged.

Some signs of shingle damage include leaks in your ceiling, dark spots on the roof, and a musty odor. If you notice any of these signs, you should have your shingles inspected and repaired.

The first step in replacing a shingle is to remove any overlapping shingles from the row above the damaged one. This prevents you from damaging the underlying shingles when you pry up the old shingle. Using a flat pry bar, loosen the nails that hold the shingles in place. When you’re done, put the shingles aside and make sure to pick up any stray nails and debris from the work area.

Once you have the surrounding shingles removed, it’s time to begin the repair process. Begin by loosening the shingles and nail heads with your pry bar, starting with the shingle that’s immediately above the damaged shingle. Slide the pry bar under the shingle, and pull up at a 45-degree angle. Repeat this step on the shingles in the row above and below the damaged shingle. Once the shingles are loosened, you’ll be able to pull them up and discard them.

You’ll also want to inspect the shingles in the repair area for cracks and loose areas. If you find any, apply roofing cement to these areas to keep them secure.

After you’ve inspected the damaged shingles, you can begin replacing them. Start by placing a new shingle over the existing one, and nail it into place with roofing nails. Apply a dab of shingle cement underneath the tabs to help seal them to the roof.

After you’ve replaced the damaged shingles, you should re-caulk any gaps with caulking compound to prevent moisture from getting into your home. Also, re-caulk any ridge vents you have to ensure they are properly sealed and watertight. If your shingles are severely damaged or have reached the end of their lifespan, a complete roof replacement may be necessary. Contact Presidio Roofing to learn more about the different options available for your home.

Leaking Gutters

Gutters are the simplest part of your roof’s waterproofing system, but they play a crucial role. They collect roof water and direct it away from your house, preventing damage to the walls, foundation and landscaping. If you have leaking gutters, it’s important to find the source of the leak and fix it right away to prevent further, more expensive damage.

Leaking gutters often appear around the corner seams where each section of the gutter connects to the downpipe. This happens because the sealant between each piece of gutter has degraded over time, and it’s important to replace it before it’s too late. Ideally, you can use caulking or waterproof tape to make your repair.

Metal gutters can also leak at the corners, and this is usually caused by the expansion and contraction of metal as it responds to temperature changes. This can cause the corners to pull away from the fascia board, causing a gap where water can seep in.

Water leaking from gutters may also indicate that the water isn’t draining properly. This can lead to wood rot, which is very serious and may require costly repairs or replacements. It can also lead to water stains on the side of your home, and it can even cause soil erosion and hydrostatic pressure pushing against foundation walls.

One of the most common ways to prevent this is by using gutter aprons. These are L-shaped lengths of metal that attach to the edge of your roof under the shingles and angle down over the inner edge of the gutter, eliminating the gap between the wall and the gutter and channeling rainwater directly into it. They are available at most home improvement centers and cost less than $10 per section.

If you’re not comfortable making this type of repair, or if the leaking is due to a more serious problem with your gutters, it’s best to hire a professional to handle it. They’ll be able to check the entire gutter system and make any necessary repairs. They can also install new downpipes and gutter corners, and will ensure that they’re fastened securely to the fascia boards of your roof.

Debris on Your Roof

Debris on your roof isn’t just an unsightly mess, it can also cause major damage. Natural debris such as branches, leaves and pine needles can scrape or scratch the surface of shingles and cause other serious problems. In addition, these items can clog gutters and allow water to overflow onto siding, potentially damaging the wood. Leaving this debris on your roof can also conceal damaged areas and lead to bigger issues down the road, so it’s important to clean it regularly.

In addition to natural debris, man-made objects can also fly off and land on your roof. This includes everything from antennas, shutters and fencing to lawn chairs and bits of masonry. These items can be very damaging to the shingles and can punch holes in them, especially during high winds or serious weather events.

It’s essential to regularly trim nearby trees and clean your gutters to prevent these types of debris from landing on your roof. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, a professional roofing contractor can take care of it for you.

Light debris is typically easy to remove on your own, as long as you’re comfortable with being up on a ladder. Be sure to wear slip-resistant shoes and have someone else hold the ladder for safety. Heavy debris can be more difficult to clear off your roof and may require the use of specialized equipment.

If you have a leaky base flashing, your residential roofing contractor will need to remove shingles and the surrounding area around the affected section of the metal pipe collar to assess the extent of the problem. They will also need to remove cedar, Hardi-Plank or vinyl siding if it’s in place to access the flashing. This is a more involved process and can be expensive, but it’s necessary to get the leak fixed properly. Once the damaged shingles and flashing are removed, the roofing professional can perform the necessary repairs. For example, if the metal pipe collar has been bent or cut by the shingle, it will need to be straightened. The roofer will also inspect the metal flashing for any signs of rust or corrosion, and repair them as needed.

Weather

The Chicagoland area sees 23 days of severe weather on average every year, with gusty wind, rain and hail. Any of these can damage your roof. And if your roof is damaged, everything in your home is at risk.

The first thing to do is assess the damage to your roof, from the ground and from inside your house. Get up in the attic, crawl space or wherever you have access to look around. Look for dripping water, damp stains and pooled water on the ceiling, walls, floor or wood beams. Look also for signs of sagging or cracking.

Next, make sure you have the proper roofing repair tools, a ladder and any other supplies you need to do the job well. A good basic set includes a pry bar for removing and leveraging sheathing, flashing and shingles; shears for neatly cutting shingles; a cat’s paw nail puller (the preferred tool of most roofers); and caulking gun or putty knife to apply roofing cement to cracks and holes. If you find holes that are larger than a cat’s paw, or extreme physical damage to your roof that is beyond what you can reasonably do on your own, it’s time for a professional.