There are few things more frustrating for homeowners than roof damage, whether it’s the product of a sudden incident or gradual decay. And while these issues can seem small, you certainly shouldn’t ignore them — even a minor one can grow into a costly problem if left unchecked. If you suspect there’s an issue with your roof or have already identified one, here are the steps you need to take next.

How Do I Know I Need A Roof Repair?

Homeowners have something of a sixth sense when it comes to finding problems in their homes. If something feels off, like a strange smell or odd new spot, you're probably going to notice it . This is helpful when discovering problems with your roof, as the signs that you need a roof repair service can be subtle, depending on the type and extent of the damage. In some cases, roof damage may even be hidden, which means you’ll have to call a roofer to get an accurate assessment of the damage. If you aren’t sure whether your roof is damaged, these are some of the signs to look out for:  

• Water stains on the ceilings or walls: These large stains will appear near the site of the roof damage. These spots can cause structural damage if they aren’t handled correctly, so be proactive in repairing them.
• Missing and damaged shingles: A missing roof shingle can lead to roof leaks, so you’ll want to repair the damage as quickly as possible. Contact some roof repair services for help assessing the damage.
• Clogged gutters: Clogged gutters overflow, which can lead to roof damage, leaks, and rotting fascia.
• Sagging roof: A sagging roof isn’t just a sign of roof damage, but also signals that your home’s structural integrity is insufficient, which could result in collapse. 
• Mold and moss: Moss buildup can be a signal that mold spores are developing in your home, which leads to wood rot and overall lower structural integrity.

Contact Your Insurance Agency

As with most incidents, the first thing you should do once you’ve detected damage is to contact your insurance agency. You will need to provide a detailed inspection report from a roofing contractor if you want to ensure that the replacement is covered. Make sure to take pictures and document all damage before anything else is done. This will help in showing the extent of the damage, which can be useful when it comes time for your insurance company to approve or deny coverage.

Types of Repairs

Roof repairs are typically classified into minor and major repairs. Before you spend a lot of money on your roof, decide which category your repairs fall into.

Minor Repairs

Minor repairs require basic tools and materials and do not require specialized knowledge or training to perform. While many people prefer DIY minor roof repairs, contact a professional if you need clarification on any aspect of the repair or are concerned about safety precautions. A minor roof repair can quickly become a major one if it is neglected or performed incorrectly.

Common minor repairs include:

• Gutter cleaning
• Patching small leaks
• Replacing missing or cracked shingles
• Fixing a puncture or hole

Major Repairs

Major repairs require professional expertise and specialized materials and, by extension, can carry a high price tag. Depending on where you live, they may also require permits and inspections throughout the repair process. Any repairs needing extensive electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or engineering work are considered major repairs. Also included are repairs for structural failures (potential and realized), any renovations to your roof or the structure of your house, and any fixing of safety hazards.

Common major repairs include:

• Extensive water damage
• Extensive treatment of mold, gas, or other environmental damage
• Roof shrinkage or roof sagging
• Total replacement

Getting Ready for Repairs

Roof repairs can be a disruptive process, typically lasting about two days. If you have pets or young children, be aware that a roof repair might be stressful for them. Roof repair services typically operate during office hours, which limits the disruption if your children are away at school and you’re able to arrange alternate care for your pets. If you have neighbors, it’s also polite to inform them that a roofing crew will be performing repairs on your home. 

Additionally, there’s a good chance that dust and debris will fall from your ceiling as work progresses on the roof. If you have valuables stored in your attic, you should consider covering them to eliminate the chance of them getting damaged.

Hire Local Roof Repair Services

Once you know the extent of damage to your roof, you can begin shopping around for roof repair services. There are plenty of options available when finding a roofing contractor, though the level of quality will vary between each one. You should find a roofing contractor that has earned a variety of certifications and has a track record of high-quality workmanship. Additionally, roofing contractors that offer a competitive warranty and financing options can help ensure the longevity of your roof without creating a massive financial burden.

At Purelight Roofing, we provide fast and affordable roofing repair services that are backed by our 50-year non-prorated warranty. With $0 down financing options and a highly qualified crew, we’re ready to help you find the best solution possible for your needs. Get a quote today to see how we can help you with your roofing needs.