Contractor Tips Blog

Dec
3

Is Your Roof Ready for Storm Season?

Posted in Roofing

When severe storm season hits, your home can be at risk for damage. Your roof is the main protection for your house, especially during wind, hail and other extreme storms. Before storm season arrives, it is important to ensure your roof is ready to withstand the elements. Here are a few tips to make sure your roof is prepared to weather the storm.

Look for Visible Damage

Have you noticed water stains on ceiling tiles or loose shingles on your roof? If there is any evidence of roof damage, now is the time to have these issues fixed. Visibly inspect your roof, gutters and attic for any signs of leaks or damage to your roof or gutter system.

Schedule a Roof Inspection

Not all roof problems are noticeable to the naked eye. It is a good idea to have a roof inspection performed by a professional to identify issues that may not be obvious to the naked eye. If there is loose shingles, flashing or drainage issues, these can cause more extensive damage during a severe storm.

Get Needed Repairs

If a roof inspection finds issues with your roofing system, do not delay having roof damage repaired. This can prevent leaks and roof failures during heavy rains and wind storms that are common during the late summer, as well as protect your roof during the winter storms.

Check Your Home Insurance Policy

You should make sure you have adequate coverage for roof and other damage to your home during natural disasters like storms. Contact your homeowner insurance agent to discuss your coverage.

A little preparation can help you ensure that your roof is ready to withstand any big storms headed your way. Contact your local roofing professional to schedule an inspection or repairs to protect your home and roof.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8
th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

May
9

Protect Your Roof from Ice Damage

Posted in Roofing

Winters can be rough on your roof. Colder temperatures can bring ice and snow that can cause damage to your roof. Ice dams and heavy snow can put stress on the roof, leading to leaks and other serious roof problems. When winter brings those freezing temperatures, make sure to protect your roof from ice damage that can result in costly repairs or replacement.

Preventing Roof Ice Damage

The key to protecting roofs from cold weather damage is not to allow snow or ice buildup. Snow accumulation can put hundreds of pounds of stress on a roof; it can collapse under the weight of snow. Snow melting and re-freezing can cause ice to form, which can occur under shingles and flashing, as well as create ice dams. Some prevention tips to minimize risks from snow and ice to your roof include:

  • Shovel or remove snow after each heavy snowfall
  • Keep attic well insulated and cool – warmth escaping can melt snow and create ice
  • Clear ice dams, icicles and ice in gutters
  • Watch for evidence of leaks to avoid more serious damage
  • Clean roof and gutters before the cold weather arrives

Ice and snow can cause extensive damage to shingles and flashing, allowing leaks to occur. This can cause thousands of dollars of damage to your home, as well as put your home at risk for mold. Preventing roof damage from cold weather is crucial and repairing any issues quickly should also be a priority.

If there are any concerns about damage to your roof from snow or ice, make sure to schedule a professional inspection with a roofing expert. It is best to catch winter damage early and make any repairs needed to protect your roof and your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8
th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Jan
10

Inspecting Your Roof After the Storm

Posted in Roofing

It seems like every time you turn on the news, a major storm is hitting one area of the country. Hurricanes, floods, hail storms and high winds seem to be more prevalent than ever. The amount of damage these storms can do to your home is extensive – especially to your roof. Regardless of whether you have a metal, shingled or tiled roof, you should have it inspected after any major storm, even if you don’t see any significant damage.

Small Issues Can Lead to Big Problems

Obviously if you have missing shingles or major dents in your metal roof, you will want them repaired. But even the small issues can eventually lead to bigger, more expensive problems. Shingles that have the asphalt worn off or are slightly lifted should be repaired or replaced. They could eventually create a leak in your roof that will be much more expensive than a small repair.

Hire a Professional Roofer

The problem is that many homeowners do not know what to look for when inspecting for roof storm damage. Plus, it can be dangerous to go up on your roof without the right safety equipment and experience. If your home was exposed to a severe storm, call a local roofer to complete an inspection. They can determine if there is any damage. If there is, they can give you a written estimate for repair that you can turn into your homeowner’s insurance if it is covered. Make sure to hire a reputable, local roofer; “storm chasers” are on the prowl, looking to take advantage of homeowners after major storms.

Don’t assume your roof didn’t sustain damage just because there are no leaks or major issues. Call in a professional roofer to complete a thorough inspection to avoid costly repairs down the road.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Mar
13

Is Your Roof in Danger of Springing a Leak?

Posted in Roofing

A leaking roof can cause thousands of dollars in damage to your home, often occurring without your knowledge. A small leak can start as a drip, moistening materials in your attic, without dripping down into your ceiling of your top floor. This can go on for months, allowing that moisture to build and create a hazardous mold problem without any sign of water in your home. By the time a big storm hits and a major leak is detected, you may already have a home with excessive water and mold damage. To prevent this expensive and health-hazardous occurrence, you need to stay on top of your roof maintenance.

When was the last time your roof was inspected by a professional? If your roof is several years old or older, it may be beginning to show signs of wear or damage. Even newer roofs can be damaged during hail storms and other extreme weather conditions. All it takes is for a shingle to become lifted, allowing water to penetrate the material underneath or a screw to come loose on your metal roof. Before long, that water will rot the material underneath and begin dripping into your home.

The best way to prevent leaks and the ensuing damage cause by the water and mold in your home is to have annual inspections of your roof. A professional roofing company can perform a thorough inspection to ensure that your roof is protecting your home from water damage, replacing shingles or tightening screws as needed. This small maintenance step is a solid investment into your home, protecting you against expensive roof repairs, water damage and mold removal expenses in the future.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

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