Emergency roof repair is sometimes necessary – and that’s because roof problems never get better on their own. In fact, roofing problems only become worse over time, particularly when water is involved.
The bottom line is that if you notice an issue that could potentially damage your home or business, you probably need emergency roof repair. However, with that said, here are some major red flags that signal the need for you to call a roofing contractor to schedule a repair immediately.
When Do You Need Emergency Roof Repair?
You most likely need emergency roof repair when you:
- Notice a leak in your roof
- See missing or damaged shingles
- Lifted or failing flashing around chimneys, valleys, wall junctions and pipe boots
Having a contractor come out as soon as you notice any of these issues can help prolong your roof’s lifespan – and making repairs can potentially save you tens of thousands of dollars on roof replacement.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these and why it warrants emergency roof repair.
Leaks in Your Roof
Leaks never get better over time; they only become worse. Water damage can be significant, too, even if you only see a small portion of it. Water can seep into your walls, damaging your insulation and the boards that hold your home together – and that means it can cause damage you won’t notice until it’s too late. Water can cause wood to rot, soak through your drywall and cause your entire roof to fail.
If you notice a leak, or even the symptoms of a leak, it’s imperative that you call a contractor for emergency roof repair right away.
Related: Why you can’t let roof leaks go unchecked
Missing or Damaged Shingles
Missing or damaged shingles can provide a pathway for water to get into your home. Water and other roofing materials don’t mix, which is why your roof is supposed to be water-tight; moisture can do tremendous amounts of damage to your home’s structure. In addition to active leaks, which can bring water in through your ceilings or walls, water can foster mold and mildew growth. Both mold and mildew can create serious health problems, which means you need to address missing, cracked, broken or otherwise damaged shingles immediately.
Lifted or Failing Flashing
Flashing is a thin material – usually galvanized steel, but it can be made from other metal or materials – that directs water away from critical areas of your roof. You’ll see it where the roof plane meets a vertical surface, such as walls or dormers. It’s also installed around features on your roof, like vents, chimneys and skylights.
Because its job is to direct water away from these areas, it needs to remain intact. If your flashing is lifted, rusted or otherwise appears to be failing, it can let water into your home; that means you need emergency roof repair to prevent more damage from occurring.
Do You Need Emergency Roof Repair?
If your roof is letting in water, that’s a genuine emergency. You should call a professional contractor for a free roof inspection immediately. Your inspector will find damaged areas and provide you with solutions that save your roof from complete failure.
