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Hail Damage: Here’s What It Looks Like on Your Roof

Hail Damage: Here's What It Looks Like on Your Roof

 

If you live in Northern Utah, there's a good chance that you are no stranger to brutal weather that causes harm to your roof, like hail damage. 

If you're concerned about how well your roof is holding up after a hail storm, you're likely searching for how to identify the damage it's caused. Keep reading to learn more about the signs of damage caused by hail on your roof. 

Asphalt Roof 

With a typical asphalt roof, there can be some obvious signs of hail damage. A few things you'll notice are: 

  • Exposed metal flashing 
  • Granule loss 
  • Cracked shingles 
  • Pitted spots 
  • Damage with no discernible pattern 

For some damage, a small replacement may be all that is required, but if the hail is large enough and the roof is relatively dated, you might need to replace the rooftop as a whole. Just as a reminder, asphalt roofing should last between 10 and 15 years, but harsh weather conditions can shorten its lifespan. 

Wood Shingles 

For homes with wood shingle roofing, damage caused by hail might look a bit different. According to Travelers Insurance, the signs of wear you might see are split shingles, sharp corners and edges, a shingle that's cracked but has no damage to the edges, and minor dent marks in the shingle.

As soon as you notice that a shingle is split or cracked, it's essential to get it replaced to prevent a leak that can cause structural water damage to your roof and home. 

Slate Tile Roof 

Slate tiles are known for being reasonably durable, but in the event of a storm with large-sized hail, the slate tile shingles can crack. There may be holes of various sizes, chipped edges, and minor fractures. If you find broken tiles, they'll need to be replaced immediately. Contact a roofing company close to you that can take care of you and your home.

Repair Hail Damage with The Roof Doctor 

When you're sure you're dealing with hail damage on your roof, don't wait—call The Roof Doctor today! We are dedicated to providing you with the best roof repair and replacement services in the Salt Lake Valley and beyond. Whether you need a little repair, complete roof overhaul, or an inspection, we've got you covered. We serve homes and businesses in Salt Lake City, Draper, South Jordan, Bountiful, Ogden, and everywhere in between in Utah. Contact us today for your free roof repair estimate. 

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Should You Repair Roof Wind Damage on Your Own?

Wind Damage Roof: Should You Repair on Your Own?

 

Living close to the mountains can mean windy days that might even lead to roof wind damage, but are you prepared for it?

In Utah, we might find our houses and roofs have to hold up against various types of weather elements. From snow and ice in the winter to dry heat in the summer and high winds all year round, it’s safe to say that our roofs can take a beating from the unique weather conditions we have. Since wind is something we see all the time, you might wonder if you should worry about wind damage on your roof and if you can fix it yourself, so keep reading to learn more. 

Signs of Roof Wind Damage 

Although we may not have crazy high winds all the time, Northern Utah is still susceptible to wind storms and thunderstorms with high winds, so it’s essential to note that roof wind damage is not all that uncommon. Let’s quickly go over what wind damage might look like to the eye.

For this article, we’ll focus on what wind damage looks like on a traditional asphalt roof, as that is most common for more homes in Northern Utah. Here are a few indications that your roof has sustained damage from the wind: 

  • Granule loss
  • Missing shingles 
  • Lifting shingles (curling up or peeling at the edges) 
  • Damaged soffit or fascia 
  • Loose or missing flashing around the chimney
  • And of course, leaks

If you notice any of the above signs, you’re going to need a repair, and quick! But you might ask if you can repair the roof yourself. Well, it depends on several factors, so let’s take a look. 

Can I Repair a Wind Damaged Roof Myself?

The answer is both yes and no. For minor repairs, it’s safe to say that you can do it if you feel comfortable. Minor repairs might be something like a singular missing shingle, but the rest of the roof is in good shape. Doing a simple shingle repair is easy enough for most handy homeowners. However, if you notice a problem with your soffit, fascia, chimney or are seeing any signs of a leaking roof, it’s best to call in the professionals. 

Contact The Roof Doctor for Roof Repairs

If you notice any signs of roof wind damage or want to be safe, give us a call! We have inspection, repair, and roof replacement services that are sure to get your roof in shape once more. We serve homes throughout Northern Utah in areas like Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Provo. Contact us today for your free roofing estimate!

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3 Major Consequences of a Leaking Roof

3-Major-Consequences-of-a-Leaking-Roof

 

If you’re a property owner, a leaking roof is one of the last things you want to deal with, but it should never be ignored.

There could be a lot of reasons your roof is leaking. Maybe there’s been some damage done by a weather event, or you have an old roof that’s been needing some repairs. Whatever the case is, if you’re dealing with a roof that has a leak, don’t wait to address the problem. Here are a few things that can happen if a roof leak is neglected over time. 

Mold and Mildew

When a roof begins to leak, there is a good chance that water can pool up and cause harmful water damage and the growth of mold and mildew. Mold, if left untreated, can spread throughout a house. In extreme cases, it can make its way into a home’s HVAC system, which will result in it spreading to the rest of the house through the vents where it can penetrate carpets, clothing, and furniture. Once mold has spread, it will take a lot of time and money in repairs to the home. So do your best to catch that leaky roof early and get it repaired to save yourself the headache!

Wasted Money and Energy

When there’s a leak in a roof, it leaves a place for the heated air in your home to get out. Especially here in Utah, during the winter months when you’re most likely to be heating the inside of your home, you want to do everything you can to ensure the house stays nice and warm. Catching a roof leak and repairing it can save you energy and money, so you won’t be cranking the heat to compensate for even the smallest of holes in your roof. 

Structure Damage 

According to Angi, a leaking roof can lead to “...damaged rafters, ceiling joists, wall framing, and even fascia boards and exterior trim can become victims of water intrusion. Chronic roof leaks lead to wood deterioration and weakened, rotten roof framing.” If this were to happen, you’d need to call in a professional contractor for all the expensive repairs. Save yourself from a hazardous home by frequently checking for signs of a roof leak and having the roof repaired or replaced at the appropriate time.

Repair Your Leaking Roof with The Roof Doctor 

When you’ve got a leaking roof on your hands, The Roof Doctor is here to help. We specialize in all things roofing, like re-roofing projects and repairs. Our roofing experts are sure to give you the best service you can find, and we’ll even examine your roof for other potential leaks and hazards while we’re there. Ready to fix up that roof? Contact us today for a free estimate! We provide our roofing services to homes and businesses across the Salt Lake Valley in Utah. 

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Tips to Spot Wind Damage to Your Roof

Tips-to-Spot-Wind-Damage-to-Your-Roof

 

You may not think about it often, but it’s not uncommon for there to be wind damage to your roof in the state of Utah.

While wind might seem like a relatively harmless element of nature, high wind can cause quite a bit of damage to your roof, leaving room for leaky roofs and higher utility bills. That’s why being able to spot damage on your roof is so essential to the safety of your home and family. Keep reading to learn more about how you can spot wind damage on your roof.

Are Your Shingles Flapping in the Wind?

One of the first indications of roof damage is that your shingles have been dislodged or aren’t secured correctly anymore. If the wind is picking up, even with a slight breeze, you might be able to see a shingle or two flapping around or moving. If this is happening to you, you should know that it’s time for a roof repair. If a strong wind could be hazardous to you, don’t run outside to check for flapping shingles. Choose to look up at the shingles when it’s noticeable windy, but you know that you’re safe to go out. 

Check for Granule Loss 

If you notice that your shingles are wearing thin and there has been some granule loss, it might be time for some repairs or replacement. Wind can do a number on your roof and erode away the granules on your asphalt shingles, leading to wind damage. If you can safely walk on your rooftop to identify the damage, do precisely that while looking for signs that your shingles are thinning. Bob Vila also recommends checking the gutters and downspouts for granules. If you notice only a few shingles have missing granules, you can easily repair the roof by replacing the individual shingles. But granule loss is no joke, and if there is a lot of it, you may want to consider calling a professional roofing company to conduct an inspection and possibly re-roof the home. 

Water Leaks 

Another way to identify any damage to your roof is inside the home. Check ceilings and walls for any signs of water damage and leaks. Once a shingle is dislodged or broken, rain and condensation have a much easier time finding their way into your home. If you’ve recently had high winds and you’re noticing water damage in your home, you can likely give credit to the wind for damaging your roof. 

Call The Roof Doctor for Inspections and Repairs

Whether it’s wind damage, hail damage, or any other roofing problem, you can count on us! At The Roof Doctor, we’re prepared for any roofing situation or emergency, and we do it all with excellent customer service as our priority. We serve residents and businesses across Utah County and Salt Lake County, Utah, so give us a call today for a free estimate and to schedule an inspection or repair!

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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. 

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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!

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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!

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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.

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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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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!