Do You Really Need A New Roof?

6 Roofing Repair Tips To Help You Save Thousands

Living in the harsh weather climate of Texas can play havoc on roofs. Most of us don’t pay attention to our roof until we have a hail storm or notice water coming in our home from the ceiling. After all, it’s not like we spend our weekends looking up at our roofs when we would rather be at our kid’s ballgames or fishing.

Inspecting your roof can definitely prevent roofing repair and replacement costs down the road and will also likely prolong the life expectancy of your roof. So, where do you start? What should you look for when you or a professional inspects your roof?

1. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends that you inspect your roof at least two times a year – Spring and Fall (Spring because Texas typically has severe weather patterns with severe storms and Fall because the harsh, blistering summer temperatures can damage your roof).
2. Interior Check: Start by walking through the inside of your house and look for any yellow stains on the ceiling or walls; check closets for stains and look in attics for water stains on the wood or for wet, matted insulation. Keep in mind that not all stains or water leaks are from the roof. The cause could be your windows from your second floor, a/c overflow pans or lines, hot water heaters, toilets, bathtubs or even rodents.
3. Exterior Check: When you walk around the exterior of your house or climb up on a ladder to check, pay attention to damaged flashing, missing shingles, hail bruising -black spots on shingles, buckling, curling, and algae growth which happens in Texas because of our humid climate.
4. Check the flashing or materials around chimneys, vents, pipes, satellite equipment or anything that penetrates the roof. Do they look bent or like something may be missing?
5. Check for excessive amounts of shingle granules (looks like tiny pebbles) in the gutters or on driveway.
6. Check the gutters and other drainage. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves and debris.

Determining when you need a roofing repair or replacement depends on many factors including the type of roofing material on your roof.   If your roof is leaking and/or has a few missing shingles, don’t assume you need to purchase a new roof. A roofing pair will likely suffice. Don’t assume you need a new roof if a hail storm passed through the area. Typically if your roof was installed correctly and is less than 15 to 20 years old, it may just need some roofing repairs. Always contact a reputable roofing contractor to find out what they recommend be done.

Take care of your roof now before you have no choice and must replace it. A bi-annual inspection will help keep your roof in tip-top shape. After all, it’s your roof that protects your family from all the elements – sun, snow, lightning and rain.