If you are seriously considering roof repair, it is probably obvious to you that your roof is suffering from some kind of issue. Depending on what the potential problem or problems might be, think about it before going into repair mode. If you are unsure of the condition of your roof and whether it needs repairs or full replacement, review the following before making a commitment:
1. How Old Is Your Roof?
Depending on the age of your roof and the kind of roof you have, most shingled roofs last about 15 years. If you maintain your roof, it can last considerably longer, but as the years pass, ongoing maintenance will likely have to occur, and the repair costs will increase. If you think you just need patching or have to go as far as total replacement because of extensive damage, consider consulting a residential roofer in your area as to what they would suggest.
2. Check The Interior of Your Roof
You want to check the interior of your roof for signs of damage, particularly after periods of rain and bad weather. Use a flashlight to closely inspect the attic, crawl spaces, rafters, decking, insulation or other spaces to determine if any leakage has occurred or whether the areas have gotten soaked or completely damaged. Water stains in any of those areas are good damage indicators. Mold can also be a factor, so check for signs of that.
3. Check The Exterior of Your Roof
Obviously, from a safety standpoint, checking the exterior of your roof does not mean walking on it. That should be left to the professionals. You can carry out your own inspection at the ground level, through a window, or by using binoculars to get a more detailed look. Any roof, whether new or old, will change over time, so be aware of what those changes can bring. Of course you want to look for any major damage caused by severe weather or fire as well as look for missing or damaged shingles, bald spots, loss of granules, or deterioration of the shingles themselves. Also, if there is abnormal shingle curling, replacement may be necessary, though some curling is to be expected as the roof ages.
4. What To Do If You Find Problems With Your Roof
Again, depending on the age of your roof, if you find any of the problems associated with the interior and exterior of the roof, reassess the factors given and go through the checklists. Most importantly, contact a professional for at least a thorough consultation and estimate as to what can be done concerning repair or replacement.
Roofing is not usually a five minute job, so leave it to the professionals and if you’re in the South Jersey area, and need immediate help, consult with the professionals at RGB Construction. Their helpful and experienced representatives will provide you with the answers you need, along with a fair estimate.
