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Like any type of roofing shingle, the range of impact resistant shingle products varies between manufacturer. Each offers architectural and designer impact resistant shingles installation of products that can be tailored to match the style of your home. 

Are Class 3 shingles impact resistant?

Impact resistant shingles have a thicker gauge base and are made with materials that are more flexible than standard shingles. They are rated for their durability during the UL 2218 impact test and given a Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, or Class 4 based on the impact degree they can withstand and crack.

A Class 3 rating is given to shingles that do not crack after being hit by a steel ball, measuring 1.75” in diameter and dropped from twenty feet. Class 4 is the highest after taking a hit from the same twenty foot height with a two-inch steel ball. To pass the UL 2218 test, the shingle cannot be cracked after that impact. 

How can you tell if shingles are impact resistant?

Impact resistant shingles are manufactured in a multilayer and thicker than the standard asphalt shingles. The impact rating of UL Standard 2218 Class 4 will be on the underside of the shingle.

How much more do impact resistant shingles cost?

All it takes is one hailstorm to damage a roof just enough repairs are needed or wipe it out altogether. It is because of hailstorms and windstorms that insurance companies love roof replacement and impact resistant shingles. While it cost more initially, it can save them money in the long run. 

Yes, we snuck that in to ease the sticker shock of having impact resistant shingles installed. The installation of Class 4 impact resistant shingles that have a 30 year life expectancy will cost around $2,500, depending on the size of the home. The truth of the matter is that impact resistant shingles can cost you as much as 100 percent more than a standard asphalt shingled roof installation.

The impact resistant shingle roof will cost more at installation time, but over the year, with less repairs needed, it is a money saver. In the end, a more expensive impact resistant roofing material could save you Metal roofing is the next best resistance to hail damage, but metal roofing doesn’t fit every home’s aesthetics architecturally.  

Are impact resistant shingles worth it?

The real question isn’t whether impact resistant shingles are worth the cost. They aren’t even a profitable option for homes where hailstorms are rare. For a home where hailstorms are almost as normal as the sun rising each day,  impact resistant shingles are a great investment.      

What roof is best for hail?

With high winds and atmospheric conditions all just right, hailstones can do a lot of damage to a roof. That is why homeowners want a roofing material that is hailstone resistant, but affordability is important too. Here are three of the best roofing materials as determined by most roofing contractors: 

• Rubber Roofing: A rubber roof is a great solution for hailstorms. It has a tremendous impact resistance level because it absorbs and disperses the impact. due to its energy absorbing and dispersing nature. Additionally, a rubber roof can flex with the temperature swings from one extreme to the next. 
• Asphalt Shingles: Asphalt shingle roofing is the most popular because of it’s inexpensive pricing. However, it the standard asphalt shingle doesn’t fare well in hailstorms with significant sized hail. You would need to upgrade to a Class 4 impact resistant shingles, which is better again hailstorms but more expensive. 
• Metal Roofing: Metal is the most durable roofing material. It is fire-resistant and lightweight, providing a long lifespan. Today, metal roofing comes in a variety of colors and is UV resistant, a bonus for homes in area that see high temperatures. The type of metal and it’s thickness makes a difference how resistant it is to hail storms.

Want to get started on impact resistant shingles? Call 610-689-3737 today!

How do you know if your roof has hail damage?

The first place to look for signs of hail damage is the gutters. A hard-hitting, high-impact hailstorm will dent the gutters and downspouts. If they are dented, then you can almost be sure there is hail damage roof above. What damage does hail do? Any of the following are indications of a hail damage rooftop: 

Asphalt Granules Loss

Asphalt shingles feel like rough sandpaper from the top layer of granules. When hail has beat on a roof, those granules come off and fill the gutters and downspouts. After a hailstorm, check the downspouts for dents and if they are full of asphalt granules.

Cracked Shingles

High wind or hard impact hail, damage roof indication are cracked shingles. Cracked shingles expose the layers under the roof, subjecting it to the weather and the UV rays. 

Fiberglass Matt Exposed

Impact of hail damage the rooftop by shattering the shingled surface, leaving the fiberglass mat exposed, which gets fractured by the hail, cracking and tearing it, exposing the decking. 

Self-Seal Strip Weakens

High winds and hail damage rooftops include the weakened shingle seals, putting the shingles at risk of blowing off and exposing the entire roof to the elements. Missing shingles are permanently compromising the roof integrity. However, some granule loss is normal. It isn’t always an indication of hail damage rooftop. 

How do you know the difference between hail damage vs normal wear? If the granule loss you see on your roof a uniform pattern, this is considered normal wear and tear. A hail damaged roof will have actual impact indications. The asphalt shingles will show impact points like somebody took a hammer to the roof.  The insurance inspector or a professional roofing contractor can differentiate the hail damage roof and the wear and tear roof. 

Can hail damage be completely repaired?    

Coverage and terms vary between insurance companies and within each policy, including a time frame to file a claim for hail damage with roof. Proof and timing are both critical when filing claims on any insurance, and homeowners may be the most stringent of all insurance claims. 

So, should I replace my roof after hail?

Your homeowner’s insurance will be the power to decide if your hail damage roof warrants replacement or only needs repairs. However, there are clear-cut indications that a replacement is necessary; for example, the roof is gone or partially missing if there is enough widespread damage that your roof is leaking when it rains. 

Then there are some cases where what appears to be an extensive hail damage roof can be repaired and give the roof another few years of life. Again, these are decisions the insurance adjuster will make, and it is also why you need to have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof. Ideally, the insurance adjuster and the roofing contractor are there at the same time. 

Are there different grades of asphalt shingles?

As far as different grades the improved version of asphalt shingles was developed in the 1970s in order to provide thicker and more protective materials. These shingles are referred to as the premium product option for asphalt roofing and are named as architectural shingles.

What is the difference between architectural shingles and asphalt shingles?

Asphalt shingles are typically 12 inches wide with a basic three-tab style and shape. They are able to protect against stable weather or mild inclement weather. If increased protection against wind, water, and impact are desired architectural shingles are three times as thick. What’s more, they can come in a variety of colors and shapes to fit with various aesthetic preferences. They are also referred to as dimensional or laminate shingles in the roofing market.

Can you coat a shingle roof?

You may be able to use a roof sealer with your asphalt shingles so that extra protection can be made. Two coats will be sufficient as the first will be absorbed whilst the second will provide the protective layer necessary to stop cracking, granule loss, leaking and curling.

Which is better light or dark roof shingles?

In general with roofing materials, lighter colors are better for energy efficiency purposes. Light colors will deflect the heat and keep temperatures down in hotter climates. Darker colors will adversely absorb heat yet this may be beneficial with colder areas. Darker colors will also help ice and snow melt from your roof faster.

How long do asphalt shingles last?

Asphalt shingles are known to last for 15-20 years depending on the conditions in which they are kept.

How do you make asphalt shingles last longer?

You may be able to make asphalt shingles last longer by avoiding power washing which can loosen granules and the material’s top coating. Another way to make your roof last longer is to keep up with clean gutters as water damages can spill over if water is not properly drained. Finally, make sure that the ventilation and attic insulation is in proper condition in order to avoid inconsistent heating and cooling of the roof.

How do you tell if your shingles need replacing?

There are several ways that you can see if your asphalt shingles will need replacement. First, consider the age of your roof. If it’s nearing the end of it’s natural roof life a replacement is recommended before problems benign to emerge. Such issues as shingles curling, granules missing, and buckling can be a sign that roofing materials are wearing out. Another issue can be with widespread water damages which can cause mold to grow or water infiltration to wreck underlying materials. With roofing punctures you may see leaks or waterlogged supportive beams which can compromise the roofing structure. Pay particular attention to the weak areas of your roof such as with chimney flashing or valleys as these can hold damages which will cause a need for a roof replacement.

Is it better to remove old shingles?

Although most states allow you to have a second layer of asphalt shingles over older ones consider if your roof is severely damaged or if there will be ventilation issues. Another thing to consider is that you will be adding more weight to your roof and if your roofing structure can not handle an extra layer of shingles it may be best to take off older asphalt shingles before reroofing. Speak to a roofing professional so a roof inspection can be made to gauge the specifics of your roof and what can be supported with the overall structure.

Get In Touch With Your Local Roofers About Asphalt Shingles Today

If you’re interested in asphalt shingles make sure to get in contact with a qualified roofing company. Only they will be able to recommend the right type of roofing materials that will best fit with your roof’s structure and the climate of where you live. Asphalt shingles are America’s number one roofing material so you will be able to enjoy the protection that will hold up well. Get started with your roofing endeavors today be they with installation or repairs with a professional roofer today.

If you need repairs with your asphalt shingles in Oley, PA call 610-689-3737 with Mast Roofing and Construction, Inc.! 

Any damaged area that opens itself up to water getting in it should be the first priority for any repairs. Among the most vulnerable areas on a flat roof for damage and leaks are the seams. You must be diligent about checking the seams for cracks and holes. When you are making repairs, you’ll want to always clean the area, clearing of the debris before getting started on the repair. If you want to find experts for flat roof repair in Oley, PA, you need to look no further than Mast Roofing and Construction, Inc.. Give us a call at 610-689-3737 to find out how we can help you.

Can you patch a flat roof?

Patches are often used for flat roof repair, particularly for rubber roofs like EPDM. Patches can often prove to be permanent fixes for holes or leaks in this type of roofing. Sealants like caulk or bitumen tend to work the best for other types of flat roofs.

How do you stop a flat roof from leaking?

No matter what kind of material your flat roof has, leaks are a common problem. Even though flat roofs aren’t actually completely flat, drainage is still not very good. This poor drainage causes water to collect on the roof, and that often leads to leaks. If there are cracks or holes in the roof, the roof becomes vulnerable to leaks. With flat roof repair, you can temporarily stop leaks following these steps:

• Find the leak first inside the building, measuring from nearby walls to where you suspect the leak.
• Go up on the roof with your measurements and search for the leak. Search for damage on the roofing membrane or around flashing and vents.
• Damage may appear as blisters or cracks or the phenomenon known is alligatoring, in which the roof has cracked because it has dried. The cracks look like alligator skin. 
• Once the source of the leak is damaged, remove any debris around the leak.
• Dry the area around the leaks before you start working on it. You don’t want to trap any moisture under the repair.
• The damage area has to be cut to remove moisture.
• Once the open membrane is dried, you apply roofing cement under the membrane and seal the leak with it.
• Nail the membrane flaps down to secure them and seal the leak.

What is the best material for a flat roof?

There are multiple types of flat roofs available and the best for your building will depend on several factors. The type of industry you’re in will often affect your choice of roofing. For instance, if there is heavy chemical exposure, PVC roofing is a great choice because it holds up well against a variety of chemicals. If you are looking to cool your roof and improve your building’s energy efficiency TPO is a really good choice. In fact, many businesses are choosing TPO and similar single-ply membranes for that reason. These roofs also require less flat roof repair.

How many years does a flat roof last?

Flat roofs are made from a variety of materials. Each type of flat roof will age differently, but most flat roof membranes typically last somewhere between 20 to 25 years under ideal conditions and maintenance. Some like PVC will last much longer. At the very least, a flat roof should be expected to last 10 years. Quality of installation, climate, and maintenance will affect a roof’s longevity.

Flat roof repair or replacement

Because problems like leaks might be common on flat roofs, making the decision between flat roof repair or replacement may not be all that straightforward. As with any roof, age will play a big role in the decision. You can expect most flat roof membranes to last anywhere between 20 to 25 years before they do need to be replaced. Even then, you may want to have your roof inspected to see if it needs to be replaced. 

More often than not, repairs will keep you from having to replace your roof until it’s service time is up. One option many building managers consider is a roof restoration coating. These coatings can extend your roof’s life for years, saving you the expense of replacement. They will also improve your roof’s energy efficiency, so you’ll save money on energy expenses as well.

Flat roof repair in rain

High winds and heavy rains can be flat roofs’ worst enemies. Rain, in particular, makes these roofs vulnerable to leaks. If you need flat roof repair, it’s normally best to do the repairs in clear weather, especially if there are particularly high winds involved. Of course, with some repairs it’s not necessarily good to wait until the next clear day. You can make repairs in the rain on a flat roof. If you do hold off on repairs, make sure to have a professional roofer come out and place a tarp over the roof to protect it from further damage.

Flat roof repair in winter

Winter can be a particularly tough time for flat roofs. Because of drainage issues, flat roofs can be vulnerable to ice dams. These walls of ice that form along the edges of the roof can put a halt to proper drainage and will need to be removed. Bad seams are a problem year round, but heavy snowfalls make damaged seams even more susceptible to water seepage and leaks. Constant freezing and thawing, as well as the heavy weight of ice and snow, also puts a strain on the roof as a whole and it’s in the winter when we see cracking occurring most often.

• Structural: A roof inspection is looking for signs of sagging and uneven roof planes. The fascia, gutter system, and soffit are inspected as is the chimney for chimney caps are in excellent condition and in place, and cracks or crumbling grout in the masonry. The roof inspection will also include time in the attic to check the venting is adequate and working.
• Material: This part of a roof inspection is to look at the shingles. Are there any curled, damaged, loose, or missing? They look for algae, lichen, moss, rust, or stains and missing fasteners or flashing. The roof inspection will include checking for aggregate in the roof valleys, gutters, and on the ground, and checking for any deterioration or gaps at the rubber boots around vent pipes.
• Interior: Because a roof leak will ultimately damage the interior, a roof inspection includes checking the attic, ceilings, and walls for water damage and stains. This includes looking for any mold or rot that a roof leak could cause.
• Workmanship: A thorough roof inspection will include checking the workmanship of the roof install like flashing installed wrong around all roof penetrations like the chimney, skylights, and vent pipes. 

How do you perform a roof inspection?

A roof inspection checklist should include the following areas:

1. The roof covering – does it provide a barrier against the weather?
2. The fasteners – roofing nails should be corrosion resistant and driven straight so they are flush and snug without going too far in.
3. The decking and underlayment – is it properly installed?
4. The slope – is the layer of roof protection adequate for the degree of the slope and is there water and ice-dam protection?
5. Ice barrier – this should be at least 24 inches inside the building’s exterior wall.
6. Drip edge – should be a metal material that is installed at the eaves and rake.
7. Offset pattern – is the offset pattern in line with the manufacturer’s guidelines for shingle installation?
8. Roof valley flashing – are the shingles lapped on both sides of the valley and meet the minimum width?
9. Nail penetration in decking – are the nails long enough to penetrate the decking without going through the shingles?
10. Flashing – are all areas that required flashing in place? The penetration flashing, vertical surface flashing, skylight flashing, and steep to slope transition?

With these ten roof inspections points covered, any damages or irregularities can be spotted, and repairs or replacement scheduled. Or in the case of buying/selling a house, this is often a point of negotiation on pricing.

When should I get the roof inspected?

Your life is full of preventative maintenance. From your car to your health to dental visits for the kids, and then there is your home. Preventive maintenance there includes changing the smoke alarm batteries, HVAC filter, and the roof. Yes, a roof inspection is needed for preventive maintenance too.

In the perfect roof inspection world, a professional does a roof inspection annually, typically early fall. At the minimum, a roof inspection should take place five years after a new roof is installed, and then subsequent roof inspections should take place at a 10-year anniversary, then 13 years and 15 years. After the 17^th year, it will be time to get quotes for a new roof, because it will have maybe three more years of life expectancy.

What is considered roof damage?

If you have any of the following, you need to have a professional roof inspection soon:

1. Water Damage – Roof leaks are often apparent on the interior of your home with water stains on the ceiling and walls. In the attic, you may find moldy areas or water spots on the rafters
2. Shingles – Curled, loose, or missing shingles.
3. Fascia and Soffits – Any signs of deterioration around fascia and soffits.
4. Granule filled Gutters – Asphalt shingles will shed granules when they are damaged or worn out. 

What is the Best Underlayment for Metal Roof?

Traditionally, the most common roofing material that is used for a metal roof underlayment is non-perforated, asphalt-impregnated felt underlayment. It is important to understand that there are many types of felt underlayment including organic reinforced and inorganic reinforced.

What are the Disadvantages of a Metal Roof?

While there are many advantages to a metal roof, it is also important to weigh the disadvantages. Please review the following list to find out more.

• Is it cost-effective? While it is true that metal roofs only need to be replaced once in a lifetime, that doesn’t mean that metal roofs are inexpensive. Asphalt shingle roofs typically last around thirty years, and they are less expensive than metal roofs.
• Is it noisy? A metal roof that is installed without the proper insulation and precautions will be understandably noisier than an asphalt shingle roof, particularly during weather events like rainstorms and hail storms.
• Is the color preferable? When selecting a metal roof installation, it is important to consider the color choice available. Many homeowners understandably want their roof installations and the associated color palettes to blend into the neighborhood. Please make sure to consult your local insured roofing contractor to discuss your color options.

Can You Install Metal Roofing on Plywood?

In order to install metal roofing on plywood, you need to first make sure that the plywood deck is strong enough to withstand the added weight of the metal panels. In order to make sure that the integrity of the plywood is sustained, install waterproof felt over the plywood to protect against any moisture. It’s no wonder why many homeowners consider metal roofs to be a compliment for their homes. After all, metal roofs are very energy efficient and, as previously mentioned, only need to be installed once per lifetime provided that the metal roof is installed by a professional roofing company.

Do You Need a Vapor Barrier Under a Metal Roof?

As previously mentioned, it is always important to install an adequate moisture barrier underneath the roof covering. For solid sheathing, professional roofing contractors are advised to use thirty-pound felt paper. The reason why a vapor barrier is important is that if airborne moisture does happen to seep into a metal roof assembly, and condenses, it will cause some problems in the long-run. With a vapor barrier, this problem is minimized.

What is Metal Roofing Installation

A metal roofing installation is essentially when metal roofing panels are installed on a roof, either in a commercial or residential roofing application. Metal roofing is available in the form of panels or shingles. Either can be utilized and applied by a professional roofing company. The starter row of metal shingles needs to be laid down at the drip edge. It needs to be affixed to the roof with metal roofing nails.

Who Does Metal Roofing Installation

Not every roofing company specializes in metal roofing applications even though many roofing companies offer such services. If you are searching for a professional roofing company that has many years of experience with metal roofing installations, now is a good time to do some research. Conduct an internet search that is relevant to these criteria. For example, search: metal roofing installation professionals.’ These search terms, combined with similar search terms, will yield relevant results.

Metal Roof Installation with Insulation

One of the critical parts of a metal roof installation is the insulation. Insulation needs to be specially primed for metal roofing because without insulation, a metal roof can be quite noisy. With insulation, metal roofs are very environmentally friendly and can be quite economical with regard to energy bills.

Scheduling an appointment for your metal roof installation has never been easier. Our staff at Mast Roofing and Construction, Inc. are ready to take your phone call at 610-689-3737. Discover more about what a metal roof installation in Oley, PA can do for you!

You also want to get your roof inspected for damage after severe weather like hail or high winds have struck. Roof inspections are also common when selling or buying a house. If you need a reliable roof inspection in Oley, PA, the licensed and insured professionals at Mast Roofing and Construction, Inc. are the team to call. You can reach us at 610-689-3737.  

What is included in a roof inspection?

When you get a thorough roof inspection, the inspector will check both the interior and exterior of the roof.

An interior inspection will include going into the attic to check:

• Ventilation
• Insulation levels
• Signs of moisture and mold

The exterior inspection will include a check for:

• Leaks
• Ice dams
• The condition of the shingles
• Whether there is proper flashing around the dormers, valleys, side walls, eaves and rakes
• Whether there is damage to the chimney and flashing

How long does a roof inspection take?

A roof inspection normally should not take too long. An average inspection will take about 45 minutes to an hour. The inspection might take several hours, however, depending on any problems the inspector encounters. Large homes or homes with steep-pitched roofs, for instance, make take several hours because of the difficulty of moving around the roof. 

Roof inspection with drone

Some professionals use drones for roof inspection. In most cases, the inspection is just as accurate or more accurate than a manual inspection. Some roofers just use drones for inspections, while others will combine drones with manual inspections. Drone inspections can be as much as three times faster than a manual inspection. If the drone is equipped with thermal imaging equipment, it can accurately detect areas where there is moisture build up better than the naked eye. The main drawback is that drone inspections may cost more than a manual inspection. 

How much does it cost to inspect a roof?

Costs for a roof inspection will vary. Some professionals do roof inspections for free, while others charge. Usually the price of a roof inspection won’t exceed more than $200, and the fee might be waived if repairs are made. The cost of roof inspection may also be factored into the cost of a home inspection when buying or selling a home. 

Roof inspection for insurance claim

When your roof has been damaged in a storm or by some other event, your insurance company may cover repairs. Before you submit a claim, you should have your roof inspected by a roofing professional, who can verify the damage. A professional roofer will be experienced enough to find problems like hail damage that may not be readily apparent to the untrained eye. A roofer may also be able to help you with the insurance claim so you can get the maximum benefit of the claim.

While homeowners insurance may pay for a roof replacement if a storm has damaged it, a burst pipe may not be covered unless the damage happens suddenly. Poorly maintained pipes are not covered. No matter how they’ve been damaged, you’ll want to get burst pipe repair as soon as possible.

Do home inspectors inspect roofs?

When you are buying or selling a home a home inspector is usually involved. The home inspector makes a thorough inspection of the house looking for issues ranging from cracks in the foundation to how the toilet flushes. They are making sure the home is in good enough shape to sell or buy. Home inspectors do perform roof inspections. The inspections are sometimes included as part of the full inspection, or as an additional service. Normally, their inspections will include checks for missing or damaged shingles as well as for proper flashing. They will also check gutters to see if they are in good order. If the home inspector doesn’t inspect roofs, you’ll want to have the roof inspected as part of home sale, as important as the roof is to the whole home. 

What is a roof inspection report

A roof inspection report is the document a roofer or home inspector provides that outlines their findings. Typically, the report will provide general information about the roof’s condition, such as the roof’s age, it’s slope, height, and type. The report will also include some form of documentation that lists damages or areas of concern. This section may include written information or even diagrams. Some roofers also include an estimate for replacement, even if replacement isn’t part of the work involved.

Whether your roof has been damaged by a storm or a leak develops suddenly and you need emergency roof repair fast, give the professionals at Mast Roofing and Construction, Inc.. We’re available 24/7 to help you with roof repair. All you have to do is call us at 610-689-3737.

How do you temporarily fix a leaky roof? 

When your roof suddenly springs a leak, you want to get the leak under control as quickly as possible to minimize damage. Of course, roofing professionals like those at Mast Roofing and Construction, Inc. will be able to help you in an emergency, and you’ll want to call them as quickly as you can. At the same time, you can get the leak under control yourself while you wait for professionals. Follow these emergency roof repair diy steps to temporarily fix the leak while you wait for professionals.

• Place a tarp over the leak: Tarps are invaluable. You can secure a tarp over the roof where the leak is located, making sure the tarp fully covers the hole and extends over the roof’s ridge. For safety’s sake, if it is raining, secure the tarp when there is a break in the rain.
• Seal the leak with roofing cement:Using a trowel, putty knife or caulk gun, you can spread roofing cement over the hole to temporarily seal the leak.
• Replace damaged shingles with temporary ones: If you have damaged shingles, you can use sheet metal, thin blocks of wood, or other metal to make temporary shingles to block the flow of water. Use roofing cement or similar adhesive to attach the temporary shingles.
• Limit water flow with roofing tape: Roofing tape can be applied to the roof decking. You’ll need to go in your attic to find the leak and tape over the hole.

These are some quick, simple fixes to slow the leak and prevent further damage until help arrives.

Can roof repairs be done in rain?

Roof repairs can be done in the rain. Roofers sometimes have to make an emergency roof repair in the rain, working on just one small area at a time. Sometimes it’s actually helpful to do repairs in the rain because it gives the roofers a chance to see if water is draining correctly or if water is pooling. Of course, it’s usually preferable to work when the rain has subsided, and also safer. If you’re attempting temporary repairs, it’s preferable to wait until the rain clears because there is less chance to slip.

What to do if water is leaking from the ceiling?

One of the signs of a roof leak is the leak appearing on the ceiling. If it’s a slow leak, usually you’ll notice dark stains forming on the ceiling. You’ll also notice the ceiling bulging or paint bubbling as the water tries to push through and water may be dripping from the ceiling. If your ceiling has just started to drip or is bulging, you can take temporary repair measures to prevent further damage to the ceiling. 

The first thing you’ll need to do is find the source of the leak, and stop the leak before draining water from the ceiling. Place a drop cloth or tarp under the ceiling where it’s dripping, and catch the water with a bucket or other container. A large portable plastic trash can be valuable in this situation. You can drain the water into the trash can and cart it away once the water is cleared. To drain the water, you’ll just need to poke a hole in the ceiling with a screwdriver where it’s bulging and let the water drain out. Finally, you’ll want to remove the damaged ceiling material. Keep the electricity in the area shut off as a safety measure.

Water dripping from the ceiling could be a result of a roof leak or from upstairs plumbing. You may need emergency plumbing repair services to get the plumbing leak repaired quickly.

How much does it cost to tarp a roof?

An emergency roof repair tarp service will cost anywhere between $200 to $500 depending on the damage and the roofing service. The price will vary depending on how much the roofer charges for emergency after hours calls. An average emergency roof repair cost will run anywhere between $200 to $300 for a minor repair, while major repairs could run as much as $3,000. Repairs can range from repairing or replacing damaged shingles to repairing leaks. In some cases, the damage could be severe enough to require the roof to be replaced.

What Causes Roof Damage?

Several things can weaken the stability of a roof, with or without actual storm damage, which is why it is recommended to regularly inspect your home’s roof. You can often find minor issues and correct them before they turn into a more costly, major issue. Five of the most common major roof damage causes are:

• Lack of Maintenance – Preventative maintenance is imperative in keeping your roof from damage and reinforcing weakened spots. During this inspection, any minor issues can be discovered and remedied. This is a preventive maintenance step that every homeowner should practice. Without this step, your roof can have underlying damage.
• Ice and Snow Damage – The lifespan of a roof is shortened by ice and snow. When they begin to melt and thaw on the roof’s surface, some will creep up under the shingles and then refreeze. That causes the flashing and shingles to lift, which can create more water damage.
• Damage from Wind – The wind can weaken shingles and nails with moderate daily gusts. Stronger winds during a storm can threaten the stability of your roof and the storm damage that hail can cause can be critical and cause further damage.
• Other Weather Damaging Conditions – Mother Nature has many issues that can be either nurturing or destructive, like storm damage and UV rays. While we can’t live without sunlight, those UV rays can gradually deteriorate a roof, especially asphalt shingles. Once they are damaged, the interior sheathing is exposed, and more damage can ensue.
• Installed Improperly – Roof installation, repairs, and replacements that are done improperly can weaken a roof’s stability and cause damage. Using the services of an experienced, licensed roofing contractor is the best way to prevent this from happening.

How Do You Know If Your Roof Is Damaged?

1. Cracked, curled, or missing shingles are excellent indicators that our roof is damaged or at the very least, your roof has reached its life expectancy.
2. Dark, dirty, wet shingles indicate that moisture has gotten trapped beneath the shingle, meaning the shingles may be loose or missing.
3. The gutter system is filled with shingle granules is an indicator that the asphalt shingles are shedding their granules and is a sure sign they have reached their life expectancy. Heavy rains that leave behind storm damage often include washing off loose granules.
4. Objects on the roof, like the chimney and plumbing vent pipes, and any openings are showing signs of wear and tear is an indication the roof is beginning to deteriorate.
5. Paint has blistered or is peeling can indicate that the attic is not properly ventilated, allowing humidity and moisture to build up at the roofline. This can also indicate the gutter system is not working properly.
6. Interior ceiling and walls are discolored or stained can indicate several things, but most likely is because the underlayment for the roof has allowed moisture in.
7. Attic leaks after a rain can be just loose flashing. But if the leak has made its way to the underlayment, total roof replacement may be necessary.
8. A sagging roof deck is apparent when the decking or rafters are no longer straight. If they are wet, there is moisture leaking into the attic and a repair of specific areas is possible, but usually, a total roof replacement is necessary.
9. Outside light coming into the attic during the day indicates that the sun is getting through cracks and that means that rain can too. Those cracks could be caused by storm damage or just basic aging of wear and tear.
10. An increase in energy bills means that your air conditioning and heating is going through the roof, literally, and that is costing you each month.

Should I Repair or Replace My Roof?

There are several considerations when trying to determine if a roof repair is enough or if you need a complete roof replacement after your house has experienced storm damage.  If you’re standing there with an umbrella while reading this, then the decision is easy: replace the entire roof!  But if your house isn’t giving you those bold hints that make it blatantly obvious, here are things you should look for:

• Moisture on the interior walls, indicated by brown stains and streaks, peeling paint, etc.
• Damaged or missing shingles can be the result of storm damage and may be in isolated places. If so, these can be repaired or just a few replaced. However, if this is the case in large areas of the roof, 30% or more, an entire roof replacement is needed.
• Recent catastrophe in the area that left behind storm damage, localized or widespread, such as a hurricane or tornado. Entire roof replacement should be considered simply because the high winds could have loosened the roof’s structure and you won’t know this until the next heavy rain.
• The roof’s age is a major factor in whether a repair job is enough or if complete replacement is needed. If your roof is over 10 years old, the entire replacement should be considered.

Can You Replace Just Half a Roof?

If storm damage was only to part of your roof, it is not recommended to have just a partial roof replacement, and roofing experts offer the following reasons:

1. Asphalt shingles have a life expectancy of 25 to 30 yearS, some up to 50-years. By replacing just a part of your roof after storm damage, the part that isn’t replaced will need replacing sooner than the part that is done. In general, a reliable roofing contractor will not do just a partial roof replacement, because getting the two roofing areas to tie together is difficult and could lead to future leaks. If you can find one that will get your guarantee in writing.
2. Aesthetically, the shingles will look different as they age, therefore, the part that is replaced will never match the older part. Look at this as wearing one new tennis shoe and one old tennis shoe.
3. Logistically it is difficult for the roofing contractor, so if your insurance adjuster determined that any storm damage was to a certain area or portion, that doesn’t mean that the roof itself doesn’t need to be replaced.  If your roof is older, it is brittle and it may not stand up to a partial replacement, thereby, it will only create more damage or set the stage for more damage to happen.

1. Immediately, once you are safe, reach out to your insurance company and find out what your policy covers in the case of storm damage. No two policies are going to be the same, do not assume that whatever your neighbor’s coverage is or isn’t will apply to you, even if you have the same insurance agent or company.
2. Provide your insurance company pictures before and after storm damage. This can help them access and review all the damage.
3. Schedule an appointment with your insurance company’s claims examiner to visit the property for review of the storm damage.
4. Call several qualified roofing contractors as soon as your insurance company indicates it is time and get quotes. If the damage is intense, cover the area with tarps to prevent any more damage from rain. And arrange to have the storm-damaged roof repaired as soon as possible.

Some insurance companies will require an older home or a home with an older roof to have an inspection performed before insuring it. It is not uncommon for insurance companies to decline coverage on a roof that is over 20 years old.

Review your policy before the next storm season arrives so that you know clearly what is covered and what isn’t. If you have concerns or questions, call your agent and ask for clarification. If your roof isn’t covered, ask what needs to be done to have that coverage added. With quality roof storm damage repair from Oley, PA in Mast Roofing and Construction, Inc., you can rest easy knowing your roof is ready for the next storm. Give us a call today at 610-689-3737.