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Handling West Jordan Roof Hail Damage Issues

handling roof hail damage

Protecting your home often involves being prepared for the very worst possible events, even if they’re unlikely or rare, and a great example here with regard to your roofing system is hail damage. While hail doesn’t happen too commonly around Utah, it definitely can take place – and ensuring your home is protected by a quality roof, and that you’re able to properly assess any damage done to this roof during a hailstorm, is vital.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re happy to assist West Jordan and nearby clients with all their roofing needs, including help with roof storm damage of any kind. Here are some basics on how to spot the signs of hail damage if a hailstorm takes place, how to handle these sorts of needs with your insurance company, and more.

Signs of Surface Hail Damage

In most cases, the first sort of damage you’ll want to inspect your roof for following any hailstorm is surface damage. This means looking for any dents, scratches, or other signs of damage to the shingles on your roof.

It’s not necessarily easy to spot these sorts of damages from the ground, so it often requires going up on the roof itself. If you’re doing this, be sure to take proper safety precautions and wear the right gear.

Once you’ve identified any potential surface damage, you’ll want to document it for your insurance company if needed. In some cases, a professional roofer may need to do this assessment – but in others, simply taking photos from the ground may be enough.

Hidden Hail Damage

In some other situations, however, hail damage won’t necessarily be visible from the exterior of your home. This is known as hidden hail damage, and it can often be indicative of more serious issues that need to be addressed.

For example, if you’ve noticed any staining on the outside walls of your home, or if some parts of your roofing system seem to no longer work properly (such as a skylight or some of the flashing), you may need a professional to take a closer look. There are also situations where impacts from hail can cause shingles to split, but this can only be seen by looking at the backside of a shingle.

In any case, the important thing to remember is that if you suspect hail damage to your roof, it’s important to call for help right away – in order to mitigate any further damage or issues that may arise from this kind of weather event. With the help of The Roof Doctor, we can assess any potential damage and also assist you with insurance claims (more on this in a moment).

Non-Roof Signs of Hail Damage

As we noted above, finding actual hail damage on your roof often involves going up there – and some people would rather avoid this if there isn’t some indication that damage has taken place. For these instances, a helpful way to find out if hail damage could be present is to look for signs of it elsewhere on and around your home.

For example, you may want to inspect the siding of your home for any dents or other types of damages – and even check for marks in your gutters, which often take a beating during hailstorms. Also look for dents in nearby cars, damage to your outdoor air conditioner unit, and more.

These kinds of signs don’t necessarily guarantee that damage took place to your roof, but they’re helpful indicators that you may have a problem and should reach out for help.

Telling Hail Damage From Other Types

Especially if you plan to file an insurance claim for hail damage, it’s important to ensure that you’re able to tell the difference between this type of storm damage and other types. For example, while hail can certainly cause dents in shingles, this isn’t necessarily the same as a missing or broken shingle – which could have been caused by age or improper installation. It’s also not the same as other types of weather damage, such as wind damage or water damage.

This is one major area where an inspection from a professional can be incredibly helpful. They’ll be able to identify the specific type of damage present on your roof and help you to determine if it’s hail-related or not. This can then have a huge impact on how you go about filing an insurance claim – and also what sort of repairs may need to be made.

Insurance Claims for Hail Damage

Finally, because they count as “acts of god” that are generally out of your control, hail damages usually do qualify for insurance claims. However, the exact process and requirements here can vary from provider to provider – so it’s important to understand what you’ll need in order to file a successful claim.

In most cases, you will have one year from the date of the storm to file a claim – and you’ll also need evidence of the damage, such as photos. Having an inspection report from a professional can also be incredibly helpful here, as it can provide additional evidence that the damage is hail-related and not caused by other sources.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re proud to offer help with both inspections and insurance claims for hail damage. Our team of experts can take a close look at your roof and provide you with the evidence you need to make sure your home is properly protected from storms, now and in the future. If you have any questions about hail damage or would like to schedule an inspection for any West Jordan or nearby roof, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Roofing Themes to Consider If You’ve Just Bought a New Home

roofing themes new home

There are a number of specific components you may be thinking about if you’ve recently purchased a home and are assessing its quality, and one area that cannot be overlooked here is the roof. Even if you’ve been diligent in your purchasing process and have bought a home with a quality roof that’s relatively new, there will be a point at which you have to consider certain repairs or other fixes, and priming yourself for this ahead of time is valuable.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re happy to help. We assist any and all clients with their residential roofing needs of all shapes and sizes, whether you have specific and immediate roofing issues that need addressing or are simply looking for a long-term partner for roof inspections and care. What are a few simple tips we offer to new homeowners on how to assess and understand their new roofing setup? Here are a few valuable themes.

Pre-Purchase Roofing Considerations

Firstly, we also want to speak briefly to those who are still in the process of negotiating a home purchase. It’s so important that you do not overlook the roof during this time! If you’re working with a quality real estate agent, they will hopefully bring any big-ticket items to your attention.

But it’s always good to get a second opinion, and if you have any doubts whatsoever about the state of the roof, it is worth getting a roofing professional to take a look. This is a significant investment, and you want to be as confident as possible in every element of the purchase.

Take a Quick Look

When you’ve finalized your purchase and are moving into your new home, take a few minutes whenever it’s convenient to just walk around the property and check out the roof from different angles. It doesn’t have to be a comprehensive or exhaustive inspection, but getting a general sense of its condition and any potential problem areas is valuable.

Of course, if you see anything that looks like an immediate issue, don’t hesitate to give us a call right away! We’ll be happy to help. But as much as anything else, this is just an opportunity to familiarize yourself with one of the most important components of your new home. How does your roof slope? Where are the gutters and downspouts located? Just getting a general sense of these basic details is helpful.

Know Your Primary Roofing Material

Another big theme to consider is your primary roofing material, as this will obviously have a big impact on the care and maintenance required over time. At The Roof Doctor, we work with all sorts of common roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, metal roofs, tile roofs, and more.

Asphalt shingles are by far the most common, and they offer a number of advantages in terms of cost, installation, and repair. But every material has its own quirks and benefits, so it’s worth doing a bit of research on your specific setup. This will help you understand what to expect down the road.

If you can’t tell which roofing material you have, or if you have any questions whatsoever, please don’t hesitate to reach out and ask. We’re always happy to help new homeowners get a handle on their roofing situation.

Care for Your Gutters

While gutters are technically separate from your roof, there’s no question these components are closely related, and they work together to protect your home from water damage. As such, it’s important to make sure your gutters are in good condition and properly maintained.

The gutters should be cleared of any debris on a regular basis, and you also want to be on the lookout for any signs of sagging or other damage. These issues can often be addressed relatively easily, but it’s important to catch them early before they become bigger problems.

Check Interior Ceilings

Both during your initial walk-around inspection and on a regular basis thereafter, it’s also a good idea to take a quick look at the ceilings in your home for any signs of water damage. This can obviously be a sign that there’s an issue with your roof, but it can also indicate problems with your gutters or downspouts.

In any case, if you see any signs of water damage in your home, it’s important to call a professional right away to assess the situation and make any necessary repairs.

Monitor for Shingle Granules

If you have an asphalt shingle roof, another big theme to be aware of is shingle granules. These are the small pieces of stone or other material that make up the surface of the shingles, and over time, they can begin to degrade and fall off.

This is a normal part of the asphalt shingle roof lifecycle, but it’s important to keep an eye on granule loss to ensure it’s not happening at an accelerated rate. This could be a sign of a bigger problem, and it’s something we can help you assess and address.

Leave Repairs to the Pros

Whether immediately upon moving into your new home or at some point in the future, you may be tempted to take on roofing repairs yourself if you notice any issues. But as much as we understand the DIY impulse, this is almost always a bad idea.

Roofing repairs can be dangerous, and they often require specialized tools and materials. It’s almost always better to leave repairs to the professionals. Not only will this ensure the job is done right, but it will also help you avoid any potential accidents or injuries.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re here to help new homeowners with all their roofing needs, from inspections and repairs to maintenance and more. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

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How to Interpret a Roof Repair Estimate

interpret roof repair estimate

When it comes to many services you’re considering for your home or property from outside specialists, receiving a cost estimate before the project begins is a common and often important element of the process. Roof repairs are no exception — property owners who are obtaining such repairs for their structures naturally want to have an idea of what those repairs are going to cost them, and estimates from roofing professionals are the simplest way to glean this information.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re happy to provide cost estimates for any of our commercial or residential roofing services, including repairs you’re in need of. How precise do these kinds of estimates tend to be in the roofing world, and what are the factors likely to impact the total found on your estimate? Here’s a general primer on this important theme.

Estimate, Not a Precise Figure

First and foremost, it’s important to realize that while we’ll do our very best to pinpoint the precise cost of your roof repairs before we start work on them, the estimate you receive is just that — an estimate. It’s based on a number of factors, which we’ll go over in just a bit.

In some cases, unforeseen issues can arise during the repair process that result in additional time or materials being required to complete the job. (This is especially true in the case of older roofs, which may have structural damage that isn’t immediately apparent.) If this happens and the job ends up costing more than we initially estimated, we’ll of course let you know as soon as possible so there are no surprises.

Conversely, it’s also possible that the repairs turn out to be less involved than we initially thought, and thus cost less. In this case as well, you would only be charged for the actual work that was performed.

In any case, it’s important to remember that the estimate you’re given should always be considered a starting point rather than a final figure.

In our next few sections, we’ll go over some of the most common elements that impact your roof repair estimate.

Size and Extent of Damage

One of the first things our roofing professionals will do when you contact us about repairs is to come out and take a look at your roof. We’ll then be able to get a better idea of the size of the repair job and how extensive the damage is.

In general, larger repair jobs or those involving more widespread damage are going to cost more than smaller, more localized repairs.

The Age of Your Roof

Another important factor that will impact your roof repair estimate is the age of your roof. Older roofs are generally going to require more extensive repairs than newer ones, as they’re more likely to have structural damage or other issues.

If you have an older roof, it’s worth considering whether repairs are actually the best option, or whether it might make more sense to replace the roof entirely. Our roofing professionals can advise you on this based on the condition of your roof.

The Materials Used in Your Roof

The materials used in your roof will also play a role in the cost of repairs. Some materials, such as asphalt shingles, are less expensive to work with than others, such as metal.

If you’re not sure what kind of materials were used in your roof, our professionals can help you to identify them. In some cases, it may also be possible to use a different type of material for repairs than was used originally — again, our team can advise you on this.

Labor Costs

Some repair jobs are going to be much more labor-intensive than others. If your roof is easily accessible and the damage is relatively minor, repairs are likely to be fairly quick and straightforward.

On the other hand, if your roof is more difficult to access or the damage is more significant, repairs are going to take longer and be more complex, which will in turn impact the cost. For example, if your roof needs to be partially or entirely replaced, this is obviously going to take more time than making smaller, localized repairs.

In some cases, it may also be necessary to bring in additional labor to complete the job — for example, if special equipment is required.

Disposal Costs

Another potential cost to consider is disposal, a common element of most roof repair jobs. After all, the old materials that are being removed from your roof will need to go somewhere, and in most cases, this will be at an additional cost.

Some companies include disposal in their overall estimate, while others charge it as an additional fee. Be sure to ask about this ahead of time so there are no surprises.

In certain cases, if there’s quite a bit of debris that needs to be removed from the roof or property area, some companies will charge a specific fee for this, rather than including it in the disposal costs.

Material Transportation

Finally, there are some roof repair jobs where materials will need to be brought to the job site, which can impact the overall cost.

For example, if your roof needs to be replaced and materials need to be brought in from off-site, this is obviously going to add to the cost of the job. The same is true if special equipment is required for repairs and needs to be brought to the job site.

In some cases, companies will include the cost of transportation in their overall estimate. In other cases, they may charge it as an additional fee. Once again, it’s important to ask about this ahead of time so there are no surprises.

For more on how to interpret your roof repair estimate and what will be included in it, or to learn about any of our roof repairs, roof replacements or emergency roof services, speak to the team at The Roof Doctor today.

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How to Identify Missing Shingles on Your Roof

identify missing shingles roof

There are several important components to most roofs, and shingles are among these in nearly every case. Shingles serve as your roof’s primary form of protection against various elements, from moisture on down the list, and one of the more common roof issues out there today is shingles that are missing from the roof area.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re happy to offer a wide variety of roof repairs and roof replacements, and shingles are a common theme we assist clients with on a regular basis. As a home or building owner, you can play an important role here: Identifying when shingles are missing or otherwise having issues, so that you can call our team for help with replacing or repairing them. What are some of the simplest ways to identify missing shingles on the roof? Here are several basic themes to consider.

Visual Inspection

The simplest and most common way of identifying missing shingles is also the most obvious: Take a look at your roof. If you can see any large patches of exposed roofing material where there should be shingles, there’s a good chance shingles are missing.

The easiest way to do this is to stay on the ground and utilize a pair of quality binoculars, which will help you get a closer look at the roofline without putting yourself in any danger. If you don’t have binoculars, see if there’s somebody else who does (maybe a neighbor or family member) that can help you out.

Another way to do this is to physically get on the roof, which we do not recommend unless you’ve been up there before and are comfortable with the safety themes required. This route should only be taken if you have trouble seeing the roof from the ground, and even then we recommend having somebody else on the ground to help guide you and make sure you’re safe.

If there are any large bald spots or patches where shingles are definitely missing, take note of them. If possible, try to find any smaller areas too, as they may not be as immediately noticeable but still indicate that shingles need to be replaced.

Now, if you find a few missing granules that should be present on your shingles, this usually isn’t anything to be overly concerned about. Shingles will lose some of their granules over time as they protect your roof, and a few missing granules here or there isn’t going to cause any serious damage. Just make sure you’re monitoring the situation so that it doesn’t escalate, and if you ever find a large number of granules in your gutters that’s definitely a sign you should give our team a call as soon as possible.

Other Possible Missing Shingle Indicators

While visual inspections are by far the simplest and most common way of identifying missing shingles, they aren’t the only ones. In some cases, certain other signs taking place within the structure, or even on the surrounding property, may give you some signs that this is happening. Here are some examples:

  • Large quantities of granules: If you’re finding lots of granules, either on the ground around your roof or in your gutters themselves, this is a good indicator that shingles are missing and need to be replaced. As we noted above, just a few missing granules aren’t anything to worry about, but larger quantities definitely are.
  • Leaks: If you’re starting to see leaks in your roof, or even just water stains on the ceiling, this may be a sign that shingles are missing and need to be replaced. In some cases leaks can also indicate other roofing issues as well, but this is definitely something to have our team take a look at as soon as possible.
  • Missing insulation: If you’ve noticed that your energy bills have been rising for no apparent reason, it’s possible that shingles are missing and heat or cold is escaping from your home. In some cases, you may even be able to see the insulation itself missing if you take a look in your attic.
  • Light shining through: This one’s a bit more difficult to notice, but if you go into your attic on a sunny day and see sunlight shining through, it’s possible that shingles are missing and need to be replaced.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, or anything else that you believe may indicate that shingles are missing, don’t hesitate to give our team a call. We’ll be more than happy to take a look and let you know for sure, and we can also provide a free estimate for any repairs that may need to be done.

Professional Inspection

If you’re confident something is going on with your roof, but you’re having trouble really nailing down what the problem is, our team here at The Roof Doctor would be more than happy to come out and take a look. We’ll be able to quickly and easily identify any issues that may be present, and we can also provide a free estimate for any repairs that need to be done.

Professionals like ours utilize several methods for identifying missing shingles, including both visual inspections and special infrared cameras. We may even utilize drones, which can view the roof from above without risking anyone’s safety. In most cases, we’ll be able to find any areas that are missing shingles and provide a detailed report on what needs to be done to fix the problem. We can also work with your insurance company if necessary to make sure you get the coverage you need.

For more on how to identify missing shingles on your roof, or to learn about any of our roof repair or replacement services, speak to our team at The Roof Doctor today.

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Subtler Indicators of Tooele Roof Damage

subtler indicators roof damage

For many who have been attentive home or property owners for a number of years, certain indicators are somewhat well-known as signs of roofing issues. Things like missing shingles, major water leaks and others are pretty obviously indicating you have an issue taking place with your roof — but what about some of the subtler, less obvious signs that something might be going on in this vital area?

At The Roof Doctor, we’re here to help with numerous client needs just like this. Our residential roofers are here to help Tooele, Utah clients with everything from issue identification through roof repairs and even re-roofing projects if needed. We often help homeowners identify issues with their roof that may not have been apparent to the untrained eye, including several subtler signs. What are a few of these that you should be aware of, and what might they be signaling with regard to your roof? Here are some basic examples.

Whistling Sounds

Have you recently begun to notice the strange presence of whistling sounds or unusual airflow coming from your attic space? If so, this is a serious sign that something might be amiss with your roofing. It could be an indicator of improper ventilation — or, in some cases, it could signal the presence of a hole or crack somewhere in your roof that’s allowing air to pass through.

Either way, this is not a sign to ignore. If you’ve noticed whistling sounds or unusual airflow in your attic, contact a roofing professional right away to have the situation assessed and rectified as needed.

Excessive Heat/Energy Bills

Have you also begun to notice that your energy bills have been spiking recently, even though you haven’t changed anything about your normal usage patterns? If so, this could also be an indicator that something is wrong with your roof. It’s possible that your attic space isn’t being properly ventilated, which is causing your air conditioner to work overtime in order to keep things cool — and driving up your energy bills as a result.

It’s also possible that significant leaks or cracks in your roof are present, allowing heat to enter your attic space and make it harder to keep things cool. If you’ve noticed a sudden increase in your energy bills, contact a roofing professional as soon as possible to have the situation assessed.

Animals on the Roof

To be clear, there are instances where animals will run on your roof even if there’s no significant damage — especially if you have tall trees with branches that allow animals like squirrels or others easy access, this sort of thing isn’t unexpected.

However, there are other cases where animals regularly taking up residence on your roof could be an indicator of trouble. If animals are regularly nesting in your gutters or trying to enter your attic space, this could signal that there are holes or cracks present that they’re taking advantage of. These need to be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage — and to keep animals from invading your home.

If you fail to notice or attend to these issues, you’re likely headed for a singular outcome: The animal(s) in question make the existing damage worse, and cause additional issues as they come and go. If you have animals taking up residence on your roof, contact a professional right away to assess the situation and make repairs as needed.

Black Spots

You may think black spots on your roof are just a bit unsightly, but they could actually signal a serious problem — especially if they’re present on your shingles. These black spots are often an indicator of the presence of mold, mildew or algae, which can shorten the lifespan of your shingles and leave your roof more vulnerable to leaks and other damage.

If you’ve noticed black spots on your shingles, contact a roofing professional to have the situation cleaned and remedied as needed. Depending on the severity of the issue, this may be something you can take care of yourself with a little elbow grease and the right cleaning solution.

In any case, don’t ignore these spots — they could signal serious trouble for your roof down the line if they’re not remedied.

Nails Along Home Edges

Have you recently begun to notice nails on the ground of your property near the edges of your home? If so, this could be an indicator that elements of your roof have begun to degrade, including some of the nails that hold exterior components in place.

This is not something you should ignore, as it could signal serious damage to your roof that needs to be remedied by a professional. If you’ve noticed nails on the ground near your home, contact a roofing contractor right away to schedule an inspection and repairs as needed.

Buckling Shingles

When it comes to shingles on your roof, the issue most people are conditioned to notice is when they’re missing — especially when a large area of shingles are all missing. However, this is not the only issue that can arise with shingles that can signal serious trouble. Buckling shingles are another key indicator, and they may be a sign of moisture damage or even fungus on your roof.

If you’ve noticed buckling in your roof, contact a professional right away to have the problem assessed — and taken care of if necessary.

For more on subtler signs of roof concerns that you should know how to spot, or to learn about any of our roof repair or roof replacement services in Tooele or nearby parts of Utah, speak to the team at The Roof Doctor today.

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Dealing With Storm Damage to Your Roof

dealing storm damage roof

The roof of any given home will naturally take the brunt of the beating during any major storm event, and in certain severe cases this can lead to damage to the roof. Such damage may in turn cause leaking, mold issues and many other concerns within your home, making storm damage repair a very important theme for any homeowner who deals with this form of damage.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re here to help with this. We provide storm damage roof repair services to clients around Utah, whether they’ve dealt with hail damage, wind damage or any other type that’s impacted their roof. We help not only with actual repairs for your roof, but also with making insurance claims to get these repair costs covered. Roof storm damage is a type that should generally be addressed immediately — if you notice it following a storm, here are some of the immediate actions you should take, including when to call our team for help.

Wait Until the Storm Has Passed

Even if you’re quite sure your roof has been damaged in some way by a storm, it’s vital for your safety and that of everyone else in your home that you not attempt to inspect or repair the damage while the storm is still going on. If you can, wait until it has passed and then take a look at your roof. If you have any questions or concerns about what you see, don’t hesitate to give our team a call for help.

Once the coast is clear and the storm has passed, you can do a bit of very basic inspection of the damage. Here are some tips and precautions to take while doing so:

  • Never go up on the roof: If you think damage has occurred, your first instinct might be to go up on the roof and see exactly what happened. But this is extremely dangerous and not something that you should ever do. If possible, view the damage from the ground or from a ladder placed against the house at a safe distance.
  • Use binoculars: If you can’t get a good view of the damage from the ground, you may be able to use a pair of binoculars to get a better look.
  • Don’t try to fix anything: Again, any repair work should only be handled by professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself, you could end up making the damage worse or even injuring yourself.
  • Estimations: If possible, try to estimate the size of the damaged area, the extent of the damage and anything else that may be relevant. This can help you when it comes to making an insurance claim later on.
  • Photographs: Once you’ve done a basic inspection of the damage, it’s also a good idea to take some photographs. These can come in handy as well and will give you something to refer back to later. If it’s possible to take some pictures, do it.

Calling the Pros

Once you’ve confirmed that there is significant damage to your roof following a storm, and have documented that damage in basic ways, it’s time to call in the professionals. Here at The Roof Doctor, we’re experienced in dealing with all sorts of storm damage and can provide you with the repairs and assistance you need to get your roof back in good shape.

Our team will come out to inspect the damage and give you a free estimate for the repairs that are needed. We’ll also help you with making an insurance claim, as this can sometimes be a difficult and confusing process. We’re here to help you every step of the way and will work diligently to get your roof back to its original condition.

Immediate Damage Mitigation Measures

While you should not attempt roof repairs on your own unless you’re a trained roofing specialist, as we mentioned above, there are a few basic things you can do to mitigate the damage while you wait for our team to arrive. These include:

  • Place buckets or garbage cans under leaks: This will help to prevent water damage to your ceilings, walls and floors while you wait for repairs to be made.
  • Remove valuables: If leaks are present and you have valuables in the area that could be damaged by water, it’s a good idea to remove them if possible.
  • Cover furniture: Again, if leaks are present, you may want to put some plastic sheeting over any furniture in the area to help protect it.
  • Turn off water and electricity: If possible, it’s also a good idea to turn off the water and electricity in the areas that have been affected by the damage. This can help to prevent further issues from arising due to conductivity.

Don’t Delay

We need to stress the importance of immediate action when it comes to dealing with any kind of roof damage. The sooner you can get repairs made, the less chance there is of further issues arising, such as leaks, water damage and mold growth. So if you think your roof has been damaged in a storm, give us a call right away and we’ll send someone out to help you.

Simply put, damage caused by a storm on your roof will not remedy itself and will only get worse with time. Don’t wait around and hope for the best, call The Roof Doctor today!

For more on this, or to learn about any of our roof repair or roof replacement services, contact our team at your nearest convenience.

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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 Your Brand New Roof Experience Hail Damage?

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The potential for hail damage on a brand new roof can stress out a new property owner, so let’s take a closer look at the probability.

In Utah, we might see a hailstorm blow through town every so often, so it’s essential that homeowners and property owners alike should be informed. It’s also important to note that a single storm will not constitute the need for a whole new roof. But if you just got a new roof or are considering reroofing, there are a few steps you can take to ensure maximum protection.

When Is Hail Damage Likely?

Hailstorms, high winds, and thunderstorms are most likely to occur during the spring and fall months in Utah but can happen at any point in the year. We’re not in the midwest region of the country where hailstorms are the most likely to occur, and we’re not often caught in hail that can cause severe damage after just one storm. But it’s possible that multiple storms can lead to enough damage that you’ll eventually need at least a minor repair or an overhaul of your entire roof.

So if the question is, “Will your new roof experience hail damage?” the answer might be yes, but it’s unlikely that it will be serious enough to call in a roofer after just one weather occurrence.

Protecting Your Home From Hail Damage

  • If you’re designing a roof, a steep-sloped roof typically holds up better against hail.
  • Keep landscaping and tree branches trimmed back and away from your home and roof.
  • Replace your current shingles with or build your roof with class IV shingles with an impact resistance rating of UL 2218.
  • Regularly inspect your roof and attic for signs of damage that need to be repaired before another hailstorm lands.
  • Contact a professional roofing company for any repairs to ensure your roof is back in tip-top shape.

Call The Roof Doctor for Repairs and Reroofing

When you're ready for a new roof or a reroofing job as a result of hail damage, The Roof Doctor is prepared to help. With years of experience in installing and repairing, our licensed roofing specialists have the knowledge to help you make the best roofing decision for your home. Serving Orem, South Jordan, Salt Lake City, Bountiful, and their surrounding areas, we're eager to give Utah property owners the roof of their dreams. Contact us today for a free estimate!

 

 

 

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What Does Wind Damage to Your Roof Look Like?

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Thunderstorms, hail, high winds, if you live in Utah, you’ve probably seen it all, and you might be wondering, can wind damage my home’s roof?

If you’ve noticed some high winds in your area or even experienced a full-blown windstorm, your roof might show signs of wind damage. Winds that are considered damaging are typically at speeds of 50 miles per hour or more, according to The National Weather Service, and while we Utahans might not experience that every day, that doesn’t mean it hasn’t happened or won’t happen again. This is why we want to help you be prepared to check for roof damage after high winds, so you know what to do and who to call. Keep reading to learn more about how wind damage might present itself on your roof.

Signs of Roof Wind Damage

If you suspect that wind may have caused damage, and you can safely climb onto your roof to inspect, these are the telltale signs that you should look out for:

  • Branches or other debris that have blown onto your roof and possibly have caused damage
  • Shingles that have mysteriously gone missing
  • Shingles that are shifted, loose, curling at the edges, or otherwise damaged
  • Split, missing, or otherwise damaged chimney flashing
  • Loose shingle granules (you might be able to spot them in the gutter)
  • A roof that has started leaking after experiencing high winds
  • Gutters that have broken loose, appear to have dents, or have fallen off
  • If you have a flat roof, look for rips, tears, cracks, or bubbles in the materials used

What to Do When You Find Wind Damage

Wind damage is no joke, and if it’s not repaired correctly, you could end up with a much larger problem on your hands the next time you experience any form of severe weather. That’s why we suggest calling a roofer immediately. If you’re experiencing any kind of leak through the roof, cover up the hole(s) with a water-resistant tarp and weigh it down using bricks or heavy rocks. That way, the leak won’t cause any more water damage while you wait.

Call The Roof Doctor

Whether it’s wind damage, a leaking roof, or anything else under the sun, The Roof Doctor has your back! Our experienced roofing experts always conduct a thorough inspection and make the necessary fixes to get your roof back to its former glory. If you live in Salt Lake City, Layton, Orem, Tooele, or any town or city in between in Utah, contact us today for your free roofing quote!

 

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How to Fix Your Leaking Roof While You Wait for Expert Help

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If you’re dealing with a leaking roof and you can’t get a professional to fix it right away, you may need to do a quick temporary fix in the meantime.

When there’s a leak in your roof, it can be highly frustrating, and it can take a toll on the rest of your home. Occasionally you’ll stumble upon a leak, but you might find yourself in circumstances where you can’t get a professional to your home right away. Hence, it’s vital to take matters into your own hands. Here’s how you can temporarily fix your leaking roof while waiting for a roofer to assess the situation fully.

Emergency Leaking Roof Repair

There are plenty of ways to quickly fix a leak in a roof while you wait for an expert, so here are a few ideas that could be beneficial to you:

  • Place a water repellent tarp over the leak in your roof and weigh it down with large rocks, bricks, or something else to keep the tarp in place even if the wind picks up.
  • If the leak is small enough, you can use a rubber sealant, silicone, or caulk to plug up the leak.
  • Repair cracked shingles with roofing sealant as you wait to have them replaced entirely.
  • If you have some roof flashing laying around, you can place it over the hole to temporarily cover the leak and prevent any more water from getting into your home.

Why Call in an Expert?

A roof leak is no joke, and while the above solutions can prevent more water from entering your home, they aren’t permanent solutions to fixing your roof long-term. However, a roofing expert can better assess the situation and come up with a solution that will get your roof back in tip-top shape. Whether the leak was caused by wind, hail, or another type of extreme weather, a professional will have you covered! A reputable roofing company will not only fix the leak but inspect the rest of your roof and provide suggestions as to how you can better prepare your home for future weather conditions that might cause other problems.

If you want a long-term solution to your roof’s problems, you can never go wrong with calling in the professionals!

Call the Experts at The Roof Doctor

If you’ve got a leaking roof on your hands, there’s no better time to call The Roof Doctor. We are experts in the field and will ensure that all our work exceeds your expectations and standards! We’re eager to serve you if you’re in Utah, in areas like Sandy, Murray, Salt Lake City, Farmington, Ogden, and everywhere in between. Contact us today to get a free quote on your roofing repair and project!