When Are Emergency Roof Repairs a Necessity?

Depending on where you live and the type of house you live in, your roof might need regular maintenance. In addition to being an essential part of the structure, energy-efficient roofs in particular can lower indoor temperatures by up to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, according to Energy Star. No matter what kind of roof you have or often you perform maintenance on it, roof repairs are an unavoidable eventuality. These repairs can be broken down into two categories: emergency roof repairs that require immediate attention, and repairs that are meant as prevention. Both of these beget more damage if left alone. Are you experiencing a problem with your roof? Here are some signs that you should call for emergency services.

If your roof is leaking or has major visible damage, you'll want to contact a professional as soon as possible. Fortunately, leaks can happen anywhere on the roof and are generally easier to spot than other issues. If a section of your roof is rotting away or collapsed, you'll likely notice water creeping in immediately. Very heavy leaks, on the other hand, can go unnoticed for a while if they're located near the eaves of the house. When you notice a leak, get the roof checked as soon as possible to assess the damage. Depending on how large the damaged areas are, different repairs may need to be done. A professional should be able to look at the inflicted damage and identify where the leak is coming from. Once the damage has been assessed, you'll be able to get an accurate estimate on the repair job from your roofing contractor.

New roofs don't last forever. Do you recall when yours was installed? The life of a roof varies depending on where it's placed, how much sun it receives, how often it rains, and how much wind it's exposed to. New roofs are generally good for about 20 years before they have to be replaced. A good roofer will do their best to give your roof the lifespan it's meant to have. In fact, many roofing contractors will offer you a discount or an extended warranty on the new roof they installed if you get your roof repaired within a certain period of time. Still, there'll come a time when it needs to be replaced in full. Older roofs are more susceptible to damage, and they can add up significantly in a short amount of time.