How to Deal With Unexpected Roofing Emergencies
No matter how well-built a roof is, it can still suffer due to extreme weather or other unpredictable conditions. These factors can cause serious problems and lead to significant roof damage. Read on to learn more about the most common unexpected roofing emergencies:
Hailstorm damage
Hail is one of the worst enemies of every roof. Even the smallest hailstones can severely damage the roof if the wind is strong. Hailstones can shatter window screens, dislodge shingles, and leave dents in gutters and downspouts.
Roof inspections are recommended after every hailstorm. Homeowners can perform the inspection themselves or hire a reputable contractor to check for potential damage.
Wind damage
Monsoon winds can damage a roof in many different ways. Even slower gusts can raise shingles and metal panels off a roof and expose it to rain, snow, or hail. Stronger winds can blow debris or branches onto the roof and destroy the entire structure in seconds.
Wind damage can happen on any part of the roof, but it usually damages the edges of the roofing systems because they are the most vulnerable.
Regular inspections can help homeowners spot missing shingles and repair the damage before it becomes a bigger problem.
Rain damage
Long, heavy rain can seriously damage roofs. When it rains, branches can become soggy, fall onto a roof, and jeopardize the structure. Moreover, rain mixed with debris and dust can clog gutters and cause flooding.
Homeowners who live in areas with a lot of rain should inspect their roof’s integrity after every severe storm.
Lack of maintenance
Lack of maintenance is probably the number one cause of unexpected roofing emergencies. Neglecting or forgetting to inspect and repair shingles, gutters, and other roof elements almost always leads to costly repairs and replacements.
While some roofing materials may be more resistant to elements, it’s important to remember that all materials require regular maintenance. Inspections extend the roof’s lifespan, keep the roof in good shape, and save money on costly repairs.
How to prepare for roofing emergencies
Roofing emergencies can be very costly, so it’s best to set aside some money for repairs and stay ahead of such occurrences.
Another way to anticipate roofing emergencies is to purchase homeowners’ insurance. New roofs might have some if not all, repair or replacement costs covered if they suffer damage from a storm. Keep in mind that certain natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes require additional insurance coverage. Also, most homeowners’ insurance policies won’t cover damage resulting from poor maintenance.
Safeguard the roof
Homeowners should consider finding a reputable and experienced roofer ahead of time. Such roofers will inspect your roof and determine its overall health, identify potential issues, and fix them before they become significant problems. Plus, roofers can develop a disaster response plan to prepare for the most common roofing emergencies.
Irish Roofing Company provides Scottsdale with roof inspection, installation, sealing and repair. We offer shingle services, tile roof services, flat roof services, roof cleaning,roof inspection, roof installation, leak repair, roof recovering, roof repair, roof sealing, skylight installation and replacement, and wood shake services for commercial and residential customers.