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Signs Your SLC Roof Requires Emergency Repairs

signs roof emergency repairs

There are certain parts of a given home or building where certain physical issues or wear-and-tear concerns can wait on repairs at least for a little while — but also others where they can’t, and the roof is a great example. Certain minor roofing issues, such as a single missing shingle or a small gutter problem, won’t cause major problems if you can’t get to them for a few days or weeks; others, however, are emergencies that require immediate assistance from roofing professionals.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re here to help in both these situations. Our roof repair services are offered to clients throughout Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, and include both emergency repairs and more standard formats — both of which we cover. How can you determine whether an issue with your roof qualifies as an emergency? Here are a few of the telltale signs that this issue cannot wait, and that you should be calling our team for assistance right away.

Noticeably Sagging, Uneven Roof

If you’re viewing your roof from the outside, or even from inside your attic, and notice that it appears to be saggy or uneven, this is a major red flag. This could be caused by a number of things, such as damage from a recent storm or even wear and tear over time, but either way it needs to be addressed urgently.

A roof that’s uneven is more susceptible to water damage and other problems, so it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. If you don’t, you’ll be risking even more damage to your property and could end up paying far more for repairs in the future — or you may even have to replace the entire roof much earlier than you had planned.

Multiple Areas of Sunlight Coming Through

When inspecting your roof from the attic, seeing one or two minor instances of sunlight may not be too large a concern. This can happen over time, and may require a simple shingle replacement or some kind of patching job.

If, however, you’re seeing multiple areas of sunlight coming through, this is a much bigger issue and definitely qualifies as an emergency. This means that your roof is not doing its job in keeping moisture and other elements out, which could lead to serious water damage in the near future. In fact, many homeowners who see this happening to their roof will later realize that water damage has already begun to take place.

Excessive, Major Granule Loss

Granules are important roofing materials, used to protect the singles of your roof from the elements. They usually fall off gradually as your roof ages, but if you’re seeing an excessive amount of granules in your gutters or on the ground below your home, this is a sign that your roof is in bad shape.

The reason this is such a big deal is because it means that the protective layer over your roof is starting to wear away, which leaves your roof singles exposed and vulnerable to damage. If this problem isn’t fixed soon, you could be looking at a complete roof replacement in the near future, rather than just some minor repairs.

Significant Shingle Areas Missing

Again, this is an area where some context is required. Just one or two missing shingles on separate parts of the roof typically will not qualify as an emergency — this isn’t creating a major water damage risk, for one, and it’s also something that can typically be fixed in a day or two.

If, however, you’re missing several shingles in one particular area (or if they’ve been blown away by a recent storm), this is definitely an emergency. This opens your roof up to much greater water damage risk, as well as leaving it more susceptible to the elements in general. It’s important to address this as soon as possible, and our professionals can help get your roof back to its best shape in no time.

Curling or Buckling Concerns

Have you begun to notice your roof warping, curling or buckling? If so, this is another major sign that your roof needs emergency repairs. This is usually a sign that the roofing singles themselves are starting to fail, and if left untreated it could lead to even more serious damage down the road.

Major Unidentified Leaks (Especially in Upper Parts of the Home)

Finally, there may be cases where you’re having trouble identifying where a leak is coming from, or it’s in an area of the home that you can’t easily access. In these cases, it’s best to call in a professional who can help identify and fix the problem.

Roofing systems are complex, and as a homeowner you may not always be able to spot a problem right away. Just because you can’t see a leak doesn’t mean it’s not there — in fact, many leaks occur in upper parts of the home where they’re harder to detect. If you’re seeing water damage in any area of your home, it’s important to call a professional and have them take a look at your roof.

As a homeowner, it’s important to be aware of the signs that your roof needs emergency repairs. By being proactive and watching for these signs, you can avoid potentially costly and serious damage down the road.

For more on this, or to learn about any of our roof repair or roof installation services in Salt Lake City or any other part of Utah, speak to the team at The Roof Doctor today.

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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!

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Leaking Roof? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Filing an Insurance Claim

Weather events can wreak havoc on your roof, and many homeowners will find the need to file an insurance claim for a leaking roof.

Utah’s spring is upon us, and with it comes rain, hailstorms, and high winds. Does your homeowner’s insurance cover roof leaks and water damage? How much will it cost you? There are a few important factors you need to know before you file that claim.

Homeowner’s Insurance and Roof Leaks

The good news is that many homeowner's insurance policies cover roof leaks and any related water damage. Leaky roofs are typically the result of a storm creating a hole or other place where water can enter your home. Some of the most popular causes of roof damage that are covered in insurance policies include rain, snow, hail, high winds, and trees falling on your roof.

Every insurance policy is different and will include different coverages and exceptions, so it’s important to read the fine print of your particular policy to be sure you fully understand your coverage.

Cause of Damage is Important

An insurance claim for a leaky roof might be denied if the insurance adjuster deems that the damage was preventable. Preventable damage would include anything that might have been prevented if the proper care and roof maintenance had been performed.

The key to a successful insurance claim in proving that the damage was caused by a sudden, unexpected event that could not have been prevented. It’s a good idea to hire a roofing expert to evaluate your roof in addition to the insurance adjuster to make sure the proper cause of the leaking roof is identified.

Expect to Pay a Deductible

Many insurance policies include a deductible and a coverage limit. These numbers are determined when you set up your policy, and they can be adjusted with the changes being reflected in your premium. If you file a claim against a leaky roof, the deductible is the amount you will pay before your coverage kicks in, and the coverage limit is the highest amount your insurance company will pay toward repairing your roof.

The Roof Doctor is Here

The expert team at The Roof Doctor can help you through the process of making an insurance claim, as well as help repair or replace your roof. Our roofing specialists will take note of any problems and the cause of the damage to ensure the claim is filed correctly.

We serve the following cities in Utah: Salt Lake City, Tooele, Ogden, Layton, Bountiful, Orem, Provo, and everywhere in between! Contact us today for all of your roofing needs!

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Are Flat Roofs Durable?

Flat roofs have gained significant popularity throughout the last few years as new homes and commercial buildings are being designed and built. 

This type of roof gives homes a modern look with its sleek lines and sharp corners. As always, with a newer design, there are still plenty of questions to be answered about these horizontal roofs. We'll explore many of the questions that we’re often asked about a flat roof, such as durability, what type of maintenance they require, and costs. 

Considerations for Flat Roofs

  • Construction and Cost - Constructing a roof that's flat is relatively straightforward for many roofers. It means that when you're building a home, the roofing can be done much more efficiently when compared to other roofing options. Costs are also kept low due to the low amount of materials needed to create a flat roof. While many associate this style of roof with luxury, Improve Net's online calculator proves that a flat roof is more affordable than pitched roofs in many cases.

  • Durability - Many roofing professionals will tell you that when you're looking for a durable roof, a flat roof is the best way to go. Concerns are often brought up that water and snow will remain on top of the roof and eventually leak or leave water stains. With flat roofing, there’s little risk for that, since flat roofs aren't 100% flat. Construction Tuts reports that roofers build a flat roof with "...a slight slope to provide some drainage. Normally a slope of ¼ inch per foot is used." This slight slope gives the look and appeal of a completely flat roof without ever having to worry about water damage.

  • Repairs - If there are any problems with your flat roof and damages, repairs are not only possible but are also reasonably inexpensive. In some cases, you can even make the fix yourself. If you are interested in learning more about how you can fix a flat roof, check out our easy step-by-step guide. However, if you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, you can count on The Roof Doctor to fix any of your roof problems in a timely manner. 

  • Cleaning and Maintenance - When it comes to cleaning the roof, you'll notice that while frequent cleaning is necessary, it's much more manageable with a flat roof. Thanks to the flatness of the rooftop, all points are more accessible for deep cleaning. As with all roofs, you want to remove any algae, mold, and excess debris to prevent unnecessary buildup. Pressure washing the roof is an easy and highly recommended way to maintain your flat roof. 

Call The Roof Doctor

When you're ready to plan and install your new flat roof, The Roof Doctor is prepared to talk. With years of experience in installing flat roofs, our licensed roofing specialists have the knowledge to help you make the best roofing decision for your home. Serving Weber, Davis, Salt Lake, and Utah County and their surrounding areas, we're eager to give Utah homeowners the roof of their dreams. Contact us today for a free estimate!

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A Step-By-Step Guide on How to Repair Flat Roofs

A Step-By-Step Guide on How to Repair Flat Roofs

 
Most of the time, it’s possible to repair flat roofs rather than to completely replace them, saving you money and stress.

In today’s world, we’re used to things being made so cheaply that it’s better to throw them out and replace them when they break than it is to try and fix them. The same cannot be said for
roofs.

If your flat roof is in need of repair, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do just that.

Step 1: Locate the Problem

The first step is to find the source of the leak. That’s not always as easy as it might seem, since
the location of the leak indoors often isn’t in the same position as the leak in the roof. This is
because the water travels along the underside of the roof before it finds a way into the house
along a seam in the sheathing and then finds its way inside.
Begin your search by looking uphill from the interior leak, since water runs down. Even on a flat
roof, there’s a small incline. Look for any visible signs of damage. Most roof problems occur
within a few feet of chimneys, deformers, plumbing, roof vents, and anything else that sticks up
out of the roof.

Step 2: Gather Replacement Materials and Tools

The material used to repair flat roofs should match the rest of the roof. Other materials that
might be needed for repair include roof patches and roofing tar. It’s best to let the professionals
at The Roof Doctor make the call on how to best move forward because this isn’t something you
want to accidentally mix up, as it can cause problems down the line.

Step 3: Make the Repair (Or Let the Pros Handle It)

The repair might be as easy as filling in a small hole. It might also be a little bit more
complicated. If you can’t tell the magnitude of the situation, don’t be afraid to let us step in.
Flat roof repairs can be complicated, we get it. It’s always best to call a professional to make
any repairs. Professional roofers have the right tools, proper training, and patience to find any
problems with the roof and repair them successfully.

In Need of Flat Roof Repair? Call The Roof Doctor!

The licensed roofing professionals at The Roof Doctor can help with your roof repairs. We repair
flat roofs, perform storm damage repairs , and offer installation services.
We are proud to provide quality roof repairs and installations throughout Salt Lake City, Tooele,
Ogden, Layton, Bountiful, Orem, Provo, and everywhere in between in Utah. Contact us for a
free roofing estimate today!

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3 Reasons Why Utah Homes Need Asphalt Roofing Shingles

3 Reasons Why Utah Homes Need Asphalt Roofing Shingles

 

When it comes to making smart choices for your home, you want to make sure you’re getting the best materials, such as asphalt roofing shingles. 

Skimping on quality can lead to unnecessary damage and repair costs. That’s why we recommend choosing asphalt roofing shingles for your Utah home. 

Here are three reasons why:

Cost-Effective

A new roof can get expensive fast, but with asphalt shingles, you can get more bang for your buck. While metal roofs can cost up to $900 per 100 square feet, asphalt roofs run as low as ⅕ of that cost! You’ll pay a lot less upfront for an asphalt shingle roof. 

Additionally, asphalt shingles are generally easier to install, meaning you’ll also save money on labor costs. You always want to pay a professional to work on your roof, and less time for installation means less cash out of pocket for you. These materials are widely available, meaning you’ll have no problem finding exactly what you’re looking for at an affordable price.

  1. Year-Round Weather Control

Asphalt shingles are constructed with your home’s safety in mind. Here in the Beehive State, we experience all four seasons, which can mean hail, snow, wind, and heat all having an impact on your home. Asphalt shingles are made to provide protection against all the elements. 

With better leak protection than other materials, your house will stay safe from snow and rain during the cold months. During the summer, asphalt shingles will protect your home with thermal insulation and fire resistance. 

2.Customizable Aesthetic

Whether you’re going to live in your home for 2 years or 20, the aesthetics of your house are probably of the utmost importance to you. With these roof shingles, you’ll have a huge array of customizable options to make sure your house looks exactly how you imagined. 

Asphalt shingles come in dozens of colors, ranging from bright to dark in various shades. You also have the option of choosing your preferred texture and style. If you’re installing a new roof, you have the chance to pick the shingles that look best with your already beautiful home.

Call The Roof Doctor Today

Whether you’re building your dream home or sprucing up an old one, The Roof Doctor is here for all your asphalt roofing needs. We can help you make all the roofing decisions to keep your home affordable, safe, and beautiful. 

We serve Salt Lake City, Tooele, Ogden, Layton, Orem, Provo, Bountiful, and surrounding Utah cities. Get a free estimate today. 

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The Basics of a Successful Roof Damage Insurance Claim

The Basics of a Successful Roof Damage Insurance Claim

If your roof needs repair, it is important to understand how to file a successful roof damage insurance claim.

After all, your roof is on the front lines against the elements in order to protect your home, so damages are inevitable.

Here are some tips to maximize your claim.

Find a Great Roofing Contractor

The first step you should take after noticing damage to your roof is hiring a roofing contractor. It is vital to work with a licensed, reputable contractor such as The Roof Doctor. A great contractor makes all the difference when filing a successful roof damage insurance claim.

Have Your Roof Inspected

You should have your roofing contractor inspect the damage prior to filing a claim. They will take pictures of the roofing issues as well as any other damages around your home. Capturing images of fallen tree branches, toppled chairs, or any other casualties of the storm will help strengthen your claim.

Be Prompt

Since your roof is constantly in use, time is of the essence when filing a claim to repair it. The longer it sits, the more time it has to collect dirt and debris that will make it difficult to establish the original damages.

Review Your Insurance Policy

All homeowner’s insurance policies are not created equal. You will want to make sure that the type of damage that occurred is covered by your plan. For example, if your roof was impaired in a hailstorm, you will want to verify that wind and hail damage is actually included in your policy.

Get an Estimate

Your insurance adjuster will provide an inspection in order to calculate an estimate. The Roof Doctor prefers to be on site for this process so that the adjuster is properly reviewing and noting all roof damage. Do not rely on the adjuster alone to determine the repair cost of the roof.

Keep a Log of Correspondence

Keep records all throughout the repair process. This includes photos, documented estimates, your homeowner’s insurance plan, and a record of who you spoke with and what they said. Ask a lot of questions and make sure you fully understand all the details of the job.

The Roof Doctor Way

In order to file a successful roof damage insurance claim, you need to work alongside an excellent roofing contractor. The professionals at The Roof Doctor are proud to offer excellent service and an open line of communication.

We serve Salt Lake City, Tooele, Ogden, Layton, Bountiful, Orem, Provo, and everywhere in between in Utah. Contact The Roof Doctor for your free estimate today.

 

 

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Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover My Roof?

Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover My Roof

Being a homeowner comes with countless responsibilities, and the majority of them protect their investment with homeowner’s insurance.

A good policy will cover any detached property, personal belongings, and the home itself, including your roof. But what happens if your roof becomes damaged?

Read more about this type of insurance and your roof below.

Q: Does homeowner’s insurance cover my roof?

A: Generally speaking, yes. A typical insurance policy will cover your roof and the cost of repairs or replacement if it becomes damaged. However, the fine print typically states that you’re only covered if the damage to your roof is a result of a sudden accident or act of nature. Furthermore, insurance doesn’t cover issues born from overall wear and tear or a roof that has exceeded its intended life span. These problems are the homeowner’s responsibility and aren’t eligible for reimbursement.

Q: How does roof coverage work?

A: Your roof arguably receives the most direct exposure to intense weather and sunrays. Depending on where you live, it can be exposed to several elements, such as heavy snow, hail, and ice storms in northern climates. Tornados and cyclones are common storms in the midwest. Tropical climates often suffer from hurricane-force winds.

While these elements differ from one another, they can all wreak major havoc on your roof. When your roof becomes damaged or destroyed from these natural events or accidents, such as debris falling from an overhead explosion, your home usually qualifies for a total or partial replacement.

When these events occur, you’ll be required to meet your policy deductible, and then coverage can kick in. Some high-risk states impose rules and exceptions on some policies. For example, you may have a higher deductible for damage caused by a hurricane. Homeowners in those areas may even be required to purchase additional coverall or a separate weather-related policy.

How to Get Reimbursed by My Insurance

The moment your roof is damaged, reach out to your insurance company for an inspection. Before they get to your house, make sure you gather any pertinent documents, such as your insurance policy, inspection reports, and pictures of the damage, which will be useful in the claims process. An adjuster from your insurance company will come to your house to inspect your roof and give their assessment.

PRO TIP — Take photos of your undamaged roof now so that if your roof becomes damaged and you have to work with your insurance, you’ll have a “before” picture to show them.

Contact The Roof Doctor

If your roof has become damaged and your homeowner’s insurance will cover it, you can count on the roofing specialists at The Roof Doctor. When the insurance adjuster inspects your roof, we’ll be by your side to ensure they properly note all its damage to maximize your reimbursement.

Contact us today so that we can coordinate a roof inspection with your insurance company’s claims adjuster. We serve Salt Lake City, Tooele, Ogden, Layton, Brigham City, Bountiful, and everywhere in between!

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What Time of Year is Best to Replace Your Roof?

What Time of Year is Best to Replace Your Roof?

 

If your home is decades old, it may be time to replace your roof; this is one of the necessary evils of long-term homeownership.

A well-constructed roof should last around 20 years, but many factors can impact its lifespan. No matter how hard you care for your roof, it won’t last forever. If you need a replacement, is there an optimal time to do it?

Since it’s a huge purchase and investment, it’s best if you can appropriately plan for an update of this scale. Some circumstances may necessitate rapid and unplanned replacements, such as a catastrophic hurricane or unavoidable accident. However, we recommend that homeowners regularly monitor their roof’s status so that they can effectively plan ahead for replacement at the best possible time.

 

Best Time to Replace Your Roof

It’s best to tend to your home’s roof in late spring, or as soon as regular precipitation has concluded in your area. It’s difficult or nearly impossible to repair or replace a roof that is still enduring regular snow or rainfall due to safety and convenience concerns. Immediately after a wet or cold season, though, you’ll have a better awareness of leaks and drafts that might indicate roof damage.

Spring is preferable to winter for the temperature as well, and not just because no one wants to be on an icy, windy roof. Asphalt shingles are the most prevalent roofing material, and they need temperatures of around 50 degrees or warmer to properly adhere to the surface of the roof.

Summer can be an excellent time for roof replacement, provided you can avoid the hottest and most humid days. The hottest summer days will limit the hours your roofers can safely work, and the extreme heat can damage many meltable roofing elements—such as shingles.

Fall is the second-best time to replace a roof, but we recommend spring first because of the busyness in autumn. Roofing contractors report their busiest times being late summer through late fall. You might have to endure a waiting period during this season to get on a roofer’s list.

Winter roof work is usually needed in emergencies and best left to the most professional and experienced roofing companies. It’s difficult to get the seal needed for proper adhesion in temperatures under 50 degrees, and rooftops can be incredibly dangerous.

 

Plan Ahead

Roofing is a massive undertaking. It can be an expensive investment, even when you’re just considering small repairs. Our best word of advice is to plan ahead as best you can. If your roof is nearing 20 years of age and you see signs of wear, begin planning for a replacement soon. Save up or find roofers with accommodating plans. The best time of year to replace a roof is when you’re ready.

 

The Roof Doctor Way

No matter what time of year you need to replace your roof, The Roof Doctor stands ready and waiting to hear from you.

We service Salt Lake County. Let us help you protect your home and meet all your roofing needs.

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How Often Should I Get My Roof Inspected?

How Often Should I Get My Roof Inspected_

Your home’s roof is your ultimate protection from the elements, so it makes sense you would keep it well-maintained. However, a professional inspection isn’t a priority for many homeowners, so when a major storm comes up and damages the roof, it can also damage your budget. The time for getting an inspection is just as important as getting one. Keep reading to find out how often to schedule a roof inspection.

 

When to Have Your Roof Inspected

Most homeowners will recognize damage after a major storm hits and hail or wind tear off shingles or throw tree branches against the house or on the roof. Still, that’s not the only time you should inspect your roof; the recommended time is in the fall before winter sets in. Too cold and it could compromise a newly installed roof since new shingles can’t properly seal it down when it’s frigid. Also, trying to repair a roof when it’s icy can be extremely hazardous, so most homeowners wait until next spring to fix it.

 

Professional Vs. Homeowner Inspection

There are simple things a homeowner can do when inspecting their roof and without needing to get up on the roof to check. Flapping or missing shingles can be seen with good binoculars. If your roof is fairly new and doesn’t show interior water damage or hasn’t been exposed to major weather events, you can likely perform an inspection from the ground and a quick check for attic leaks. Other damage may not be so simple and can’t be seen from an untrained eye. This is where a professional comes into play. 

For a more comprehensive roof inspection, a professional is best since they have the training and experience needed to do a thorough inspection. If your roof is older and you want a seasonal inspection, you need a reputable roofing contractor. They can look for leaks, abnormal wear and tear, improper shingle installation or other previous repairs, and damage caused by debris from winds or hail. The inspection is broken into four categories: materials, interiors, structure, and workmanship, which includes looking for

 

To Schedule a Consultation, Call The Roof Doctor

If after a roof inspection shows you need roof repair or replacement, we’re available here at The Roof Doctor. Some of the repairs we do include dirty gutters, cracked sealant, cracked plastic vents, and cracked plastic pipe flashings.

Our licensed roofing contractors take extra precautions to ensure yours and their safety during this time, so reach out and get a free roofing estimate today.