Posted on

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

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

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

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

  1. Secure Loose Shingles

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

  1. Beware Falling Trees and Branches

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

  1. Visually Inspect Your Roof

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

The Roof Doctor Can Help

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

Posted on

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!

Posted on

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!

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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. 

Posted on

What Should I Know About Roof Maintenance?

What Should I Know About Roof Maintenance_

Your roof is an integral part of your home that protects it from weather, falling debris, and critters. You may not think about its condition until there’s damage. By then, it may be a too little too late scenario and a hefty repair bill that follows. Read about what you should know for maintaining your roof to ensure it lasts for decades.

Roof Maintenance

Since your roof can last upwards of twenty-five years with proper maintenance, it’s important you know what things you need to know about, so your roof lasts. First, it’s vital to inspect your roof twice a year and look for lifting, curling, cracked, or missing shingles, buckling, leaking, sagging or broken gutters, or a damaged drip edge—issues you don’t want to ignore. Here are some maintenance tips to ensure your roof stays in good condition.

 

Tips on Maintaining Your Roof

Clean the gutters at least a few times a year and particularly before and after a storm hits. Water can back up and rot the fascia if gutters become clogged. 

Trim high trees since one good storm can cause weak branches to crash into your roof. It’s vital that trees stay trimmed and away from your home.

Look up and check for buckling, loose, or missing flashing, as well as any missing or exposed fasteners or granules.

Re-Caulk, if needed. If a builder applied low-grade caulking at the time of installation, the flashings might not stay sealed.

Check the insulation to ensure you have proper insulation and ventilation in your attic; this helps keep your roof in good condition by preventing ice dams from forming and decreasing moisture. Also, look for any leaks in your attic or ceilings for any water stains. Some common signs of water damage include a musty odor in individual rooms, spots on your exterior walls, bulging patches of your interior walls, and water stains on ceilings.

Wash your roof. With age, your roof will start to look dirty. Long, dark streaks flow from peak to eave, which means algae is growing. Don’t leave this for too long, or it will rot your shingles. To eliminate algae, spray your roof with a 50 percent mix of water and bleach. 

Consider getting a professional roof inspection done. An expert can spot potential issues you may not see, as well as offer tips for roof maintenance you might not know about. They can also tell you the condition your roof is in and how long it will last. Getting an annual inspection increases your chances of discovering issues before they result in high repair or replacement costs. A typical roof inspection can cost from $250 to $650, depending on size.

 

The Roof Doctor Can Help

If you need expert help with your roof, contact us. Our professionals will come and inspect your roof and inform you of their findings. We’re here to ensure your roof continues to last for years to come with high-quality products and services.

Posted on

Tips For Maintaining Your Roof During The Winter

Tips For Maintaining Your Roof During The Winter

Wintertime can wreak havoc, not just on the streets, but on our roofs as well. A particularly bad winter hit in 1993, when heavy snow blanketed the area. The resulting two feet of snow landing on roofs seriously increased the risk of collapse. It was recommended that people remove as much as they could to prevent damage. While this extreme example doesn’t happen every winter, it’s an important reminder to be mindful of the roof over our heads!

Keep reading to learn about routine wintertime roof maintenance.

Ways To Maintain Your Roof During Winter

Remove Snow Quickly

It may look innocent, but as stated above, heavy snow can damage a roof, especially if the roof is old or in need of repair. Remove snow as soon as possible. It is necessary to check for ice as well, as it further contributes to the heaviness of snow on your roof. When left too long, ice melt creates what’s known as an ‘ice dam’, thick ridges of solid ice that build up along the eaves. When temps drop below freezing, the melted ice refreezes, resulting in a dam inside or around your gutters. This can back up any runoff precipitation, potentially causing loose shingles and even leakage.

Check For Wind Damage

Along with snow and ice, wind can also do major damage to roofs. Wind damage can rip off portions of your roof that may be hard to see, so you must check for broken, missing, or damaged shingles and other roofing materials. If not fixed, these vulnerable areas will do more than just cause leaks; they will increase the likelihood of bacteria, mold, and mildew.

Repair Flashing

Roof maintenance includes checking your existing flashing for problems. What is flashing? Flashing is a protective material fabricated from a rust-resistant metal that is applied around roof protrusions such as the base of chimneys and roof vents, as well as several other areas. Over time, it can warp and loosen, so it’s important to check this yearly. If it’s damaged, show and ice can enter your roof more freely. If too much water builds up, it can cause interior leaks.

Inspect Your Gutters

Gutters are especially susceptible to freezing precipitation. Check them regularly for signs of ice dams. A telltale sign they need cleaning is icicles hanging from them, which can mean your gutters are already plugged. If they’re filled with ice, they can weaken and be unable to sustain all the weight. This results in the gutters tearing away from your home, causing significant structural damage that can bite you in the wallet.

Check Your Attic

Routine roof maintenance isn’t only on your home’s exterior. When performing your roof maintenance, check to ensure your attic has enough insulation, which includes stable ventilation routes. Keeping the airflow consistent helps keep your roof protected.

Contact The Roof Doctor

Need help? If you’re in the Salt Lake City or Northern Utah area, please contact us for a free roofing estimate and let our experts come out and inspect your roof. We perform storm damage repairs In addition to our installation services. You can count on us to fix any issues so that you can rest, worry-free, this winter. Don’t wait!