Dealing with Roof Damage? Know Your Next Steps

Key Takeaways

• Roof damage begins with very small things, but it can lead to very serious and costly problems if left unaddressed.
• The first step towards repair is to assess the damage safely.
• Go to the insurers with documentation and details of the event.
• Choose a licensed and insured professional with good reviews and experience.
• Taking professional help is safer and more effective than DIY solutions.

Roof damage starts very quietly with an unnoticed shingle, a small crack, or a windstorm that feels like no big deal in the beginning. But in actuality, it is. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, roof damage constitutes roughly 40% of the claims that are filed all over the United States for homeowners’ insurance. And this risk looks nowhere near a full stop due to the continuous change in weather conditions. 

But the thing is, what to do now? Especially when the roof is already compromised. The question that arises in my mind during such situations is, should I call the insurance first or the contractor? If the damage needs a whole replacement or just some repairs? And how are we going to prevent it in the future? But don’t worry, this article will solve all your doubts and walk you through every step of the process. So let’s get started!

Assess the Damage

The first step after knowing about the roof damage will be to assess it carefully and realize to what extent it has been damaged.  If it looks minor and the weather supports, you will be able to do it yourself from the ground using binoculars. At that time, check for missing or broken shingles, sagging areas, exposed underlayment, or water stains on ceilings and walls inside your home.

However, if you feel the damage is too much, don’t take the risk of going to the terrace and call for professional help. Plus, don’t forget to take pictures and videos of the damage. In fact, document it with both photos and notes. These things will help you in insurance claims and discussions with contractors.

Did you know?
A metal roof can reflect up to 70% of solar heat, making your home cooler in summer. Hence, lowering your AC bills by 25% or even more.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you have understood the situation, go to your homeowner’s insurance provider. The sooner you reach out to them, the faster they will send an adjuster to evaluate your claim. Show them the photos and documentation that you got from your last inspections. And be prepared for the questions they will ask, like when and how it occurred. 

Your policy may or may not cover every damage, depending on its cause. Like damage from a storm or a falling tree will be covered, but normal wear and tear usually isn’t counted in claims. So be aware of your coverage and then budget accordingly to avoid any unwanted surprises in the meantime. 

Find a Reliable Roofing Contractor

Once you are done getting in touch with the insurer, the next thing is to hire a reputable roofing contractor. It is a very important step to ensure that your repairs are done correctly and safely. Now, for this part, don’t rush at all. Because according to the Better Business Bureau, there are over 5,000 complaints filed nationwide for roofing scams. So, do proper research and find the best contractors.

You can start by asking your family and friends for referrals. Or you can also look online for reviews and ratings. Then, before finalizing, make sure that the contractor is licensed, insured, and experienced in working with your type of roof. 

At last, don’t get a deal done before comparing quotes from different contractors. Remember: A good roofing contractor will provide you with a written estimate, explain the scope of the work, and answer all your questions. You can start your search for qualified professionals here. 

And if you’re still weighing material or structural choices, consider reading more about the importance of a well-designed roof to make long-term decisions now.

Understand the Repair Process

Before you begin with the work, it’s good to understand the repair process fully. Also, A trustworthy and genuine contractor will always walk you through the details, including. 

• The timeline for repairs
• Materials to be used
• Any permits or approvals required
• Warranties for the work and materials

Knowing how long your roof is expected to last also sets the right expectations—be sure to review the factors that affect roof lifespan when planning repairs.

By clarifying these points in advance, you can avoid miscommunication and be on the same page with the contractor. In case any temporary fixes are needed to prevent further damage (like tarps or sealants), your contractor should also handle those promptly.

Did you know?
The oldest known functioning roof is on the Pantheon in Rome, built in 126 AD. Which is nearly 1,900 years of holding up strong.

Prepare for the Repair Work

We know that these roof repairs are very noisy and disruptive, so be prepared for them. And make your family and home also prepared. Here is a list of what to do:

• Keeping vehicles, outdoor furniture, or valuables away from the work zone is necessary.
• Inform neighbors about the upcoming repairs.
• If you have a pet or young children, figure out how to keep them safe and comfortable during work.

Moreover, remove the fragile items from the walls and ceilings if your attic or upper floor is directly below the work area. Dust and scrap are another big issue during repairs, so make sure to cover the belongings that can get these absorbed.

Maintain Your Roof Regularly

Once your roof is repaired, make a plan for maintaining it further. This preventive upkeep of yours will extend the life of the roof and avoid future surprises. Plus, make regular inspection a part of this schedule, especially in fall and spring seasons, or after a storm hits your home. Some other helpful tips are: Keep gutters clean, trim overhanging branches, and look for signs of water damage or mold inside your home.

These small steps toward Regular maintenance ensure that these little issues don’t turn into a big problem. Moreover, a well-maintained roof not only protects your home but also boosts its value and curb appeal. 

Hereby, follow these steps to not only recover from the damage but also to protect your home against future challenges.

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