What Causes a Leaking Roof?

What-Causes-a-Leaking-Roof

 

Whether you're currently dealing with one or trying to prevent a future catastrophe, you might wonder what causes a leaking roof.

A roof with a leak is something you want to avoid at all costs, and one of the best ways to prevent that situation is to be prepared. You can start by learning what kinds of things cause a roof to leak and so you can catch it early on before disaster strikes. Keep reading to learn more. 

Age 

While extreme weather and other factors can lead to a damaged roof, one of the most common things that can lead to a leaking roof is age. Unfortunately, there's no way around it, but materials used for roofing will deteriorate over time and become less effective at keeping water out. According to Bob Vila, asphalt shingle roofs have an average lifespan of 15-20 years before needing to be replaced.

Debris 

Debris blown onto your roof can also cause a roof leak. As debris such as leaves and twigs can trap water on your roof, allowing it to seep through the shingles and flashing slowly. Ensure that you regularly clean up your roof and cut back any overhanging trees that could be dropping leaves or pine needles.

Cracked Flashing 

Flashing is thin pieces of metal installed under shingles and on the joints of your roof to create a water-resistant barrier. As the shingles on your roof age or are exposed to extreme weather conditions, the flashing will eventually be exposed. When exposed, the flashing can crack, breaking the water-resistant barrier. If this happens, get in touch with a professional roofing company to take care of the problem right away.

Clogged Gutters 

When your gutters are clogged, there's nowhere for rainwater to go, leaving excess water to pool on your roof and possibly leak through the shingles. Clean your gutters regularly, or consider gutter covers to help prevent debris from getting in there. 

The Roof Doctor Is Here to Help

If you're dealing with a leaking roof or trying to prevent one, call The Roof Doctor. We are experts in roofing and specialize in repairs, re-roofing, and preventive maintenance. Our team of experts will come to your house and do a thorough inspection and give you the options that are sure to get your roof back to its former glory and ready for anything that's ahead. Let's get your roof in tip-top shape! We serve homes and businesses between Draper, Salt Lake City, and Provo, Utah, so contact us today for a free estimate and to schedule an appointment with us. 

Asphalt Roof Shingles: How Wind Damage Can Impact Them

Asphalt-Roof-Shingles-How-Wind-Damage-Can-Impact-Them

 

Even though your roof is built to withstand Utah’s elements, some intense storms can wreak major havoc resulting in wind damage.

When severe winds persist, it’s important to know how they might affect your roof’s shingles. Today, we’re sharing how high winds can impact your roof and what to do about it.

Winds Can Cause Damage to Asphalt Roof Shingles

Since high winds don’t usually hit roofs uniformly, they are quite prone to wind damage. The amount of damage that occurs depends on various factors from the wind speed to the age of the roof. Usually, destruction starts around the perimeter or on shingles that are already loose. In addition to the wind itself, your roof shingles could suffer from falling objects and debris.

Wind Speeds and Roof Damage

The speed of the wind greatly impacts the type of damage that might occur:

45-55 mph - Broken tree limbs, loose roof shingles blown off

55-75 mph - Small trees torn down, sturdy shingles ripped off

75-90 mph - Large trees blown over or uprooted, structural damage occurs

90+ mph - Significant roof damage

Signs of Wind Damage to an Asphalt Roof

The signs of wind damage are not always obvious, so as a homeowner, it’s important to know what to look for after a wind storm:

  • Entire shingles missing
  • Granule loss
  • Curling and peeling shingles
  • Indoor water leakage
  • Scattered debris throughout your yard or neighborhood
  • Divots on the edges of your shingles
  • Cracked or crooked chimneys

What to Do After a Wind Storm

After a wind storm, it’s essential to call in professional help to inspect your roof. DIY roof repairs can turn hazardous, so call The Roof Doctor right away if you suspect something might be amiss. We have the relevant experience and tools to climb up and check your rooftop in a safe manner.

How to Protect Your Shingles from Wind Damage

Here are three simple ways that you can protect your roof from the wind so that when the next storm rolls in, you can rest easy knowing your roof will make it through.

  • Secure any loose shingles if a storm is headed your way
  • Keep the trees closest to your home trimmed and away from your roof
  • Visually inspect your roof before a storm; look for any debris, clogged gutters, or blocked drains

The Roof Doctor Is Here for You

If your roof has suffered wind damage, it’s important to have it repaired by a professional right away. The expert team of roofers at The Roof Doctor can help inspect and repair your roof, and even replace it if necessary.

We serve Salt Lake City, Murray, Layton, Sandy, Ogden, Orem, and the surrounding areas in Utah. Reach out today for a free estimate.

3 Easy Ways To Protect Your Roof From Wind Damage in Utah

3 Easy Ways To Protect Your Roof From Wind Damage in Utah

There are a number of problems that can occur with your roof, but wind damage is one of the most common in Utah. 

Older roofs or those that haven’t been inspected and maintained are especially susceptible to damage due to high winds. The good news is that there are some easy ways that you, as the homeowner, can protect your roof from the wind so that when the next storm rolls in, you can rest with ease knowing your roof will make it through. 

  1. Secure Loose Shingles

It’s natural for shingles on a roof to loosen over time, but it’s important to keep them secured so no water can leak through during a storm. When a major storm is headed your way, it’s a good idea to inspect your roof for any loose shingles and secure them before any serious wind damage is done. They can be secured with roofing nails and caulked around the edges.

  1. Beware Falling Trees and Branches

Trees near your home are great for shade, but not so great for your roof during a storm. It’s important to keep the trees closest to your house trimmed up so there are no branches hanging over your roof. Falling trees and branches can cause serious damage to your roof during a windstorm, but it’s generally avoidable if you are sure to maintain your trees and remove them when they pose a threat to your roof.

  1. Visually Inspect Your Roof

Weak spots in your roof are often visible, so you can avoid a lot of heartache by visually inspecting your roof before a storm. Look for any debris on the roof, clogged gutters, or blocked drains. These can easily contribute to a damaged roof during a storm. It’s a good idea to call The Roof Doctor for a roof inspection if you suspect something might be amiss, since trying to DIY roof repairs can turn hazardous. 

The Roof Doctor Can Help

If your roof has suffered wind damage, it’s important to have it repaired by a professional right away. The expert team of roofers at The Roof Doctor can help inspect and repair your roof, and even replace it if necessary. We serve Salt Lake City, Murray, Layton, Sandy, Ogden, Orem, and the surrounding areas in Utah. Contact The Roof Doctor today for a free estimate.

What You Need To Do Before Installing Solar Panels On Your Roof

 

Solar panels are an increasingly popular option for generating electricity into the home today, which is why many homeowners are making the switch.

Solar energy can help reduce the cost of electricity, provide backup power for outages, and positively impact the planet. Many homeowners are choosing to go solar, but first, there are a few steps you need to take to prepare your roof. Continue reading to learn more.

1. Have Your Roof Inspected

Before installing solar panels on your roof, you need to make sure that it can support the weight of the panels. We recommend having it inspected by a qualified roofing contractor, such as The Roof Doctor, for a stress-free experience. A professional can make sure that your roof is in tip-top shape and take care of any necessary renovations before the panels are connected.

2. Consider How Much Electricity You Typically Use

To determine how many panels you need, take a look at your home’s electric bills over the last few months. This will help you establish realistic goals concerning solar energy. Installing any number of panels will decrease your home’s dependence on the electrical grid, saving you money and grievances in the event of an outage.

3. Notice Where the Sun Hits Your Home

The amount and type of solar panels your home needs depend largely on the sun. These panels work best in direct sunlight, so pay attention to the spots on your roof that get the most sun exposure throughout the day.

4. Remove Objects in the Way

Objects such as antennas, vents, satellite dishes, and low-hanging tree limbs might get in the way of installing panels on your roof. Your roofing contractor can help you establish the best course of action for moving these items. If you have trees that shade a large portion of your roof, it’s a good idea to have them trimmed to reduce the risk of damaging your panels.

5. Determine the Best Time for Installation

While installations can take place during every season, many homeowners choose to have solar panels connected during the summer. Taking advantage of extended hours of summertime sunlight will build up energy storage that you can use year-round. You’ll also be delighted to see expensive summer energy bills plummet with the use of solar panels.

Call The Roof Doctor Roof Inspections, Repairs, and Replacements

Before installing solar panels on your roof, contact The Roof Doctor for an inspection. We’re dedicated to giving you the best options that work for your home while providing you with the best roofing service you’ll ever have. We provide superior roofing solutions to many cities in Northern Utah, including Salt Lake City, Tooele, Orem, Provo, and everywhere in between. Contact us today to learn more about our services and get a free estimate!

Staying Cool in the Summer: How Your Roof Affects Your Bill

Staying Cool During Summer: How Your Roof Affects Your Bill?

Keeping your house cool in the summer is no small task, but did you know your roof affects your bill? 

As the summer heat in Utah soars to all-time high temperatures, it’s more important than ever to ensure your roof isn’t contributing to an ever-increasing utility bill. 

Your Roof’s Impact on Your Utility Bill

Sure, it’s difficult to keep your house cool in the summer. But isn’t that normal for every house? Not necessarily. Older roofs may not be properly insulated, allowing for too much heat to leak into your home and causing your air conditioner to work overtime. It’s easy to see how an old roof affects your bill.

Insulation isn’t the only concern with older or poorly installed roofs. Ventilation is equally important. A properly installed roof by The Roof Doctor will strike a unique balance between insulation and ventilation, protecting your home from excessive heat while also ensuring hot air doesn’t get trapped in your attic.

A poorly insulated roof will raise your utility bill, and it can shorten the life of your A/C unit. Meanwhile, if your roof isn’t properly ventilated, it can trap moisture inside and contribute to rotting insulation and mold issues.

So how do you lower your cooling bill and prolong the life of your insulation and HVAC system? A roof inspection is a good place to start. A professional roofer can take a look and tell you if your roof was installed correctly and has the proper insulation and ventilation. 

What to Look for in a New Roof

There are a lot of great, energy-efficient materials that can be used in a new roof. Here are some popular options:

    • Metal shingles – These are durable, lightweight, and extremely energy-efficient. They’re also fireproof, which makes them a popular option for homeowners.
    • Tile roofing – Tile offers great insulation and ventilation, making it a top energy-saving material. They’re also durable and flame-resistant.
  •      Asphalt shingles – While some asphalt shingles are considered energy-       efficient, not all are. Ordinary asphalt shingles can get very hot and won’t do     your utility bill any favors, so be sure you’re shopping for the right variety.

When you’re shopping for roofs, try to find one that’s endorsed by Energy Star. Roofing that has this endorsement is able to maintain a lower surface temperature, keeping your energy costs down. 

The Roof Doctor Is Here

If you’re having a hard time keeping your house cool this summer, there’s a good chance your roof is contributing to the problem. The quality of your roof affects your bill, and The Roof Doctor is here to help keep that bill from getting too high this summer. We’re located in Salt Lake City, Utah, and serve customers in the surrounding areas of Layton, Tooele, Ogden, Orem, Provo, and more. Give us a call today for a free quote!

Are You Neglecting Your Roof’s Hail Damage?

Are You Neglecting Your Roof’s Hail Damage?

 

When was the last time you checked your roof for hail damage? It might be time to do a quick inspection of your roof for damages. 

Your roof is the first line of defense for your home against any elements, including hail. That’s why, as a homeowner, taking care of your roof should be one of your top priorities. Keep reading to learn about the signs of damage caused by hail and how to prevent it in the future.

Signs of Hail Damage on Your Roof

Different types of roofs and roofing materials react differently to hail, so it’s essential to understand what to look for depending on what type of roof you have. For today’s article, we’ll be focusing on asphalt shingles and wood shingles, two of the most common types of roofing seen in the state of Utah. 

Asphalt and Composition Shingles 

According to Travelers Insurance, here are the most common signs of hail damage to your asphalt shingle roof:

  • Random damage with no discernable pattern
  • Loss of granules 
  • Exposure of the roof felt
  • Asphalt that appears shiny 
  • Indents in the shingles that are soft to the touch (it will feel like a bruise on an apple)

Wood Shingles 

  • Signs of damage with no discernable pattern
  • A shingle or shingles that are split 
  • Shingles that are brown/orange in color
  • Impact marks or dents in the singles and along with the splitting 

Wear and Tear That Is Not Hail Damage 

Other types of damage can happen to your roof that will not be caused by hail, but you should still address the situation. If you notice any of the following, reach out to your roofing company to inspect and repair the damage: 

  • Shingles that are brittle and breaking 
  • Blistering
  • Cracking 
  • Granule loss 
  • Flaking 
  • Algae growth 

Preventing Hail Damage 

There’s no definite way to prevent damage to your roof caused by hail, but leaning on a professional roofing company that uses quality all-weather roofing materials will give your roof the longevity it needs to protect your home. If you’re concerned about hail, pick a roofer that does quality work and will provide you with various roofing options that will suit your home’s specific needs.

The Roof Doctor Is Available for Repairs and All Other Roofing Needs

Whether you have hail damage, wind damage, or any other kind of roof damage, The Roof Doctor has you covered with all things roofing. Need a quick repair or a whole new roof? We can do it, and we’ll do it with customer service that is sure to impress. We take pride in the work we deliver, and we know you’ll be more than satisfied with it, too. So don’t wait any longer to get your roof checked for damage and repaired; contact us today for your free roofing estimate! We serve Salt Lake City, Layton, Sandy, Ogden, Orem, Provo, and neighboring cities in Utah.

3 Easy Ways to Protect Your Roof from Wind Damage in Utah

There are a number of problems that can occur with your roof, but wind damage is one of the most common in Utah. 

Older roofs or those that haven’t been inspected and maintained are especially susceptible to damage due to high winds. The good news is that there are some easy ways that you, as the homeowner, can protect your roof from the wind so that when the next storm rolls in, you can rest with ease knowing your roof will make it through. 

  1. Secure Loose Shingles

It’s natural for shingles on a roof to loosen over time, but it’s important to keep them secured so no water can leak through during a storm. When a major storm is headed your way, it’s a good idea to inspect your roof for any loose shingles and secure them before any serious wind damage is done. They can be secured with roofing nails and caulked around the edges.

  1. Beware Falling Trees and Branches

Trees near your home are great for shade, but not so great for your roof during a storm. It’s important to keep the trees closest to your house trimmed up so there are no branches hanging over your roof. Falling trees and branches can cause serious damage to your roof during a windstorm, but it’s generally avoidable if you are sure to maintain your trees and remove them when they pose a threat to your roof.

  1. Visually Inspect Your Roof

Weak spots in your roof are often visible, so you can avoid a lot of heartache by visually inspecting your roof before a storm. Look for any debris on the roof, clogged gutters, or blocked drains. These can easily contribute to a damaged roof during a storm. It’s a good idea to call The Roof Doctor for a roof inspection if you suspect something might be amiss, since trying to DIY roof repairs can turn hazardous. 

The Roof Doctor Can Help

If your roof has suffered wind damage, it’s important to have it repaired by a professional right away. The expert team of roofers at The Roof Doctor can help inspect and repair your roof, and even replace it if necessary. We serve Salt Lake City, Murray, Layton, Sandy, Ogden, Orem, and the surrounding areas in Utah. Contact The Roof Doctor today for a free estimate.

Home Fire Protection and Roofing: They Go Hand-in-Hand

Home-Fire-Protection-and-Roofing-They-Go-Hand-in-Hand-2

 

While it may seem unlikely that it will happen to you, you should always go the extra mile when it comes to home fire protection.

Did you know that the type of roofing you have can actually make a difference in fire suppression? If you’re cautious around fire, you may think that there’s no way a fire can affect your home. But you should still consider that home fires easily spread from home to home when proper precautions are not taken. During the summer months in Utah, fires become increasingly more likely due to the extremely dry conditions we live in, so it's essential to make sure your home is protected.

Today, we're going to talk about how roofing shingles can better protect your home in the event of a fire. Keep reading to learn more. 

How Roofing Shingles Fight Fires 

Shingles are an essential tool you can use to protect your roof from spreading a fire. Shingles were once developed to help waterproof the home, but it was quickly realized that the material used to make shingles, fiberglass, is much more fire-resistant than the once used asbestos. 

Don't be confused, though; not all shingles are fire-resistant. The key here is to pick the Class A-rated fiberglass-asphalt shingles. This type of shingle is known for being the best for fire-resistant roofing. While not completely fireproof, these shingles are essential because they won't contribute to the spread of the fire, which will make all the difference when it comes to home fire protection. Class A-rated shingles won't break off during a fire, won't crack or warp, and most of the wall of shingles won't risk exposing the underlying parts of the roof. The flames of the fire will be contained only to the shingles themselves, which also won't give off burning embers that spread the fire elsewhere.

Other Home Fire Protection Tips 

While you should definitely take precautions and use A-rated fiberglass-asphalt shingles, there are other steps you can take to protect yourself and your home from fires, both in your home and outside your home. Since it's currently summer and fire can travel fast, here are some essential tips that you can use from Safety

  • Avoid smoking in your home
  • Never leave cooking food unattended 
  • Install and maintain your smoke detectors
  • Trim overhanging branches from trees in your yard, especially ones near power lines
  • Collect all fallen leaves and other debris from your yard
  • Keep bushes, trees, and other shrubbery cut back, away from the side of your home

The Roof Doctor is Ready to Re-Roof Your Home

If you think it's time to start with your home fire protection plan, contact The Roof Doctor right now. We do all kinds of roofing and specialize in roofs with shingles, especially for the A-rated fiberglass-asphalt shingles. In Utah, summers are dry, and fire spreads faster than ever, so don't hesitate to add new shingles to your home. If you live in Salt Lake City, Tooele, Ogden, Layton, Bountiful, Orem, Provo, or in the surrounding area in Utah, we invite you to get in touch with us. Ready to get started? Contact The Roof Doctor today!

Will 1-Inch of Hail Damage My Home’s Roof?

Will-1-Inch-of-Hail-Damage-My-Homes-Roof-2

 

Hail damage to your roof is never fun to deal with as a homeowner, but understanding when hail becomes a point of concern can be helpful.

Hailstorms come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Knowing which hail sizes can wreak havoc on your roof gives you a good indication as to what degree of damage you might face.

Continue reading to learn more about how understanding various sizes of hail can help you be proactive against storm damage. 

¼” Hail

Milder hailstorms will generally produce pea-sized hail and only for a few minutes at a time. In general, most roofs are designed to fair well when it comes to this type of storm. If you know that your roof already has existing damage before the hailstorm begins, it’s a good idea to make sure that the weather didn’t exacerbate the existing impairments.

½” Hail

This type of hail mimics the size of a marble. While not a foolproof rule, ½-inch hail usually falls into the safe zone as well. If the storm is particularly lengthy, produces strong winds, or if your roof had preexisting damage, having an inspection done by The Roof Doctor is a safe call.

¾” Hail

¾-inch hail is about the size of a dime and can be destructive depending on accompanying wind speeds. The damage that this type of hail produces is usually evident in places other than your roof. You might notice harm to your window screens, vinyl siding, and paint on decks or fences. If this is the case, we recommend an inspection to ensure that the hail damage doesn’t extend to your roof.

1-1 ½” Hail

Hail that reaches the 1-inch mark should be taken seriously despite the storm length. This size of hail can cause bruising to the shingle underlayment, harm to the siding, dents or cracks in the gutters, and other damage that shouldn’t be left unaddressed. You should hire a professional roofing company, like The Roof Doctor, to come and do an inspection after any major storm involving hail of this size or larger.

Hail Exceeding 1 ½”

Hail reaching the golf ball-sized range can penetrate the softer parts of a roof, such as ridge caps or roof vents. Anything above this size will also cause significant property damage like torn-off siding, cracked windows, and dented vehicles. You can assume that your roof has suffered some degree of destruction when these types of storms roll through town.

Call The Roof Doctor Roof Repairs and Replacements

If your roof has incurred any hail damage, contact The Roof Doctor for an inspection, repairs, or a complete replacement. We’re dedicated to giving you the best options that work for your home while providing you with the best roofing service you’ll ever have. We serve Salt Lake City, Layton, Sandy, Ogden, Orem, Provo, and neighboring cities in Utah. Contact us today to learn more about our services and get a free estimate!

Top 4 Expert Tips to Protect Your Roof from Hail Damage

Top-4-Expert-Tips-to-Protect-Your-Roof-from-Hail-Damage

 

Hail damage to your roof isn't something any homeowner wants to deal with. So how can you be proactive about it? 

Your roof is the first line of defense in protecting your home from a hail storm, so you must take extra precautions. Especially if you live in a colder area like Utah, hail can be frequent and take a toll on your roof. Today, we have rounded up the top four tips from roofing experts on how to protect your roof from hail. 

  • Familiarize Yourself with Your Insurance Plan

According to Insurance.com, hail damage is "covered by standard home insurance in most states. However, coverage is applied in many ways, depending on where you live, your insurer, and how your policy is set up." That's why it's vital to understand your plan fully. If you have questions about your plan, we encourage you to reach out to your insurance agent in an effort to be proactive. It's best to know what and how much is covered before any damage is done.

  • Choose Durable Materials 

Whether you're building your home or you're simply replacing your roof, you should know that by choosing more durable materials, you'll find that your roof will hold up better in the long run. According to The Spruce, investing in high-quality materials, even if they are more expensive, is often a "better value over the lifetime of your home." Some of the most durable roofing materials are: 

  • Rubber shingles 
  • Class 4 asphalt shingles
  • Metal roofing (steel being the most durable)
  • Frequent Inspection for Wear and Tear

Even if your house hasn't recently encountered a hail storm, it's still important to frequently inspect your roof for signs of damage. A few things to look for when examining your roof are: 

  • Cracking caulk 
  • Rust on flashing
  • Missing or broken shingles 
  • Cracked or worn rubber boot around vent pipes 

You can also hire a professional roofing company, like The Roof Doctor, to come and do an inspection after any major storm or for an annual inspection. By doing an assessment, you'll know what needs to be repaired so that the damage doesn't worsen with the next storm.

  • Don't Wait to Repair or Replace

If you notice any signs of hail damage or any other damage, don't hesitate to call a roofing specialist. If you catch the damage early enough, there's a better chance that it can simply be repaired over having to do an all-out replacement. Alternatively, suppose your roof has been damaged enough to where it needs to be replaced. In that case, it's essential to do so so that your home is appropriately protected in the event of the next hail storm or any other extreme weather. 

Call The Roof Doctor Roof Repairs and Replacements 

If your roof has incurred any hail damage, contact The Roof Doctor for an inspection, repairs, or a complete replacement. We're dedicated to giving you the best options that work for your home while providing you with the best roofing service you'll ever have. We provide superior roofing solutions to many cities in Northern Utah, including Salt Lake City, Tooele, Orem, Provo, and everywhere in between. Contact us today to learn more about our services and get a free estimate!