All posts by Val Shargorodskiy

Powerful weather events like tornadoes and thunderstorms frequently damage roofs. Over the past several years, Minnesota storms have become more intense, increasing the instances of damage.

When severe weather harms your roof, your first question should be whether insurance will cover storm damage. This article will explain what to look for, what types of damage are covered by home insurance policies, and the process of claiming roof damage.

What Should Homeowners Look for When Their Homes Incur Wind or Storm Damage?

During a storm, your top priority should be staying safe indoors. When the weather clears, it’s time to check your roof. Be sure to check safely and wait for a contractor or insurance adjuster if access to your roof could pose a problem.

Roof damage insurance claims are common in Minnesota. The damage may be immediately apparent or need a detailed examination. It may require repairs if you hear loud noises or hail during the storm.

The damage may be evident if a tree has fallen on your home or if there are other openings. In this case, it is essential to have a contractor add a tarp to your roof to prevent further damage inside.

One of the top signs of a storm-damaged roof is water leaking inside the home. Even if your home was not affected by severe winds, shingles might need replacement. Even a few missing shingles due to hail or wind can cause damage to your home’s interior.

Other signs of possible roofing insurance claims for storm damage include:

• Loose shingle granules indicate damage. So do buckling or curling shingles.
• Small cracks may be hard to notice, but they do indicate damage as well.
• Roof components may be missing.
• There could be “bubbling” in your roof, also known as roof blistering.
• Damage to property or vehicles in your yard often points to roof damage.
• Cracked or leaking drywall is another sign of a storm strike.
• Floors in the home may be wet. Check all floors, especially in areas your family does not frequently use.
• Check all pipes, gutters and elements near the roof that could have received damage from the storm itself or from a part of the roof coming loose.

What Kind of Storm Damage Does Homeowners Insurance Typically Cover?

The top question that you may have is, “Will insurance cover storm damage?” Insurance will generally cover issues caused by severe storms, including thunderstorms, snowstorms, and hailstorms. You should file wind damage for roof insurance claims only in severe storms. 

Homeowner’s insurance often does not cover hail damage to metal roofs. Insurance companies do not cover wear and tear due to ordinary weather events.

Be aware that standard homeowners insurance does not cover floods. Make sure you have special coverage for these issues if roofing insurance claims for storm damage do not apply.

How To Make Roof Damage Insurance Claims

Making roof damage insurance claims can be complex. Insurers sometimes reject these claims. Let’s explore the process of claiming roof damage on your insurance.

Assess the Damage

The insurance company may request photos of all affected areas to determine whether insurance will cover storm damage. Do not take unnecessary risks to get the pictures. If conditions are dangerous, allow the insurance adjuster to take care of the job.

Examine Your Policy in Full

Before making a roof damage insurance claim, it is wise to read your policy and determine what is covered. To save money, you may have excluded wind and hail damage roof insurance claims. Hail damage claims do not apply to many metal roofing policies.

Call Your Insurance Company and Work With an Adjuster

The next step in making a roof damage insurance claim is calling your insurer. The sooner the company sees your damage, the earlier you receive the payout. Insurance covers storm damage in many cases.

Sent by the insurer, the adjuster should take their time and thoroughly inspect your home before filing a roof damage insurance claim.

Ask the insurance company to send another adjuster if you disagree. If you dispute with both adjusters, your insurance company will send an engineer to look at your property.

Get a Contractor’s Estimate

Don’t count on the insurance adjuster to tell you how much the repairs will cost. Their job is to “low-ball” the repair bill and save as much money as possible. Instead, work with a qualified contractor with experience in handling insurance companies. 

Having A to Z Construction on your side means that our roofing experts will resolve your problem quickly. We will handle your hail damage roof insurance claim or any other issues with care.

Your insurance company will need a written estimate on company letterhead to process the claim. Do not get a verbal estimate, as the insurance company will not accept it.

Keep Complete Written Logs

Roof damage insurance claims need a solid paper trail. Insurance companies are notorious for claiming they did not receive your paperwork.

File Promptly

Roof damage can worsen over time if you do not repair it right away. It may also be harder for adjusters and contractors to see the problem if time has passed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Storm Damage Insurance

Here are some frequently asked questions about storm damage and roofs.

What should I do if a neighbor’s tree damages my roof?

Ask your neighbor to file a claim with their insurance company as soon as possible, as their insurance may be liable.

Does Homeowners insurance cover an unmaintained roof?

 No. Companies only cover roof damage insurance claims after regular maintenance. Insurance does not cover wear and tear.

How much does a roof replacement typically cost? 

Roof replacements cost $8,600 on average, however, this will depend on the size of your roof as well as the roofing material you choose. You may recoup the cost when you file a roof damage insurance claim.

Claiming Roof Damage on Insurance

Everyone who has experienced severe weather wants to know whether insurance will cover storm damage. Following these tips can speed up your roofing insurance claim for storm damage. When faced with dangerous weather, Minnesota homeowners should contact A to Z Construction today for expert assistance.

Have you ever wondered what to do if your roof is leaking during a storm? It’s a question many homeowners find themselves asking during inclement weather.

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you from the elements and keeps your family safe. That’s why you should take action when it starts leaking during ice and snow storms.

Storms can damage your home quite badly. Water alone can cause extensive damage to your home, both inside and out. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to prevent further damage. Here’s what to do when your roof leaks during a storm.

Act Quickly

If you need to know what to do if your roof leaks during a storm, act quickly. Storms can cause incredible damage. If you see signs of a leak-whether you have a roof leak during an ice storm or your roof is leaking after an ice storm- take fast and decisive action. The longer you wait, the more damage the leak will cause. Not to mention, water can quickly spread throughout your home and cause additional damage. While everyone should know some basic emergency roof repairs, you may need to bring in an expert.

Protect the Interior of Your Home

Once you’ve noticed your roof is leaking during a storm, take steps to protect the interior. Move any valuables or sensitive items out of the way of the leak. Remove things such as:

• Paintings
• Electronics
• Important documents

Allowing interior items to become soaked can cause irreparable damage. Long-term damage may include mildew and mold. In addition, it’s a good idea to put down towels or other absorbent materials to help soak up any water that does make its way inside.

Ease Water Pressure on Your Ceiling

If your roof leaks during a storm, and your ceiling sags or shows signs of water damage, act fast to prevent further damage. One way to ease the pressure on your ceiling is to cut a hole. Doing so will help release some water and prevent your ceiling from collapsing.

You can accomplish this by using a utility knife or a saw. Be sure to cut away from any beams or supports. Once you’ve made the initial cut, you can use a piece of plywood or another board to create a larger opening. A screwdriver works well for this purpose.

Don’t create a large hole! Make it big enough to allow water to drain out but small enough that it won’t cause further damage. Use a bucket to catch any water that drains out and then empty it as needed.

Of course, this is not a permanent solution. It will buy you some time until a professional can come and take a look at the damage.

Look for the Source of the Leak

Once you’ve determined what to do if your roof leaks during a storm, turn indoors. After protecting the interior of your home, it’s time to start looking for the source of the leak. It isn’t always an easy task, especially if the leak is small.

The best place to start looking for leaks is in your attic. Look for any signs of water damage, such as stains on the ceiling or walls. 

Another good place to look is around windows and doors. Gaps or cracks in these areas can often provide clues about the leak.

If you don’t have an attic, you can try to locate the source of the leak by going outside and inspecting your roof. Once you’ve found the source of the leak, it’s time to take action.

Tarp Your Roof

If your roof leaks during a storm, you need to protect it. One way to prevent further damage from a roof leak during an ice or snow storm is to tarp the roof. It will help keep water from coming into your home and causing additional damage. You can purchase a tarp at most hardware stores.

Some types of storms make climbing up onto the roof too dangerous. For example, if you discover a roof leak during an ice storm, you shouldn’t climb up on your roof. If you discover a roof leaking after a snow storm, it will be safer to go and inspect the roof.

Either way, you can use temporary tape or caulking instead of a tarp. These tools will close any gaps and prevent water from entering.

Take Photos for Insurance Documentation

One of the most important things to do if your roof leaks during a storm is to document the damage.

If there is damage to the interior or exterior of your home, take photos for insurance and roofing warranty documentation. The images will help support any claims you need to file with your insurance company. Take pictures of any damaged items as well as the source of the leak if your roof leaks during a storm.

Determine if Your Insurance Company Covers Water Damage

Depending on the type of insurance you have, your coverage may cover damage caused by a roof leak. Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover water damage caused by severe weather. However, they typically don’t cover damage caused by a lack of maintenance even if your roof leaks during a storm.

If you’re not sure whether your policy will cover the roof leak, contact your insurance company.

Call a Professional Roofing Company

Still wondering what to do if your roof leaks during a storm or if your roof is leaking after a snow storm? Once you’ve taken all the necessary steps to prevent further damage, it’s time to call a professional roofing company. A professional can assess the damage and make any necessary repairs.

Keep in mind that repairing a roof leak after a snow or ice storm is not always a quick and easy process. In some cases, the damage may be extensive, and you may need to replace your roof entirely.

Continue Regular Roof Maintenance

After repairing your roof if your roof leaks during a storm, you should continue regular maintenance. Taking this action will help prevent future leaks and other damage. Be sure to have your roof inspected at least once a year.

You should also clear away any debris that accumulates on your roof. Objects like leaves and branches can cause water to pool on your roof. Debris can lead to leaks and other damage.

If you live in an area with severe weather, you may need to take additional steps to protect your roof. For example, you may need to install hurricane straps or tie downs. These tools help keep your roof secure during high winds.

By taking these precautions, you can help prevent future roof leaks during a storm or going through a stressful time during a heavy storm.

Final Thoughts

Now you know what to do if your roof leaks during a storm. Don’t wait to take action. Use these tips to prevent further damage and call a professional roofing company as soon as possible. If your roof has started leaking during a storm or you want to speak to an expert about how to prevent this from occurring, A to Z Construction is here for you. Contact us today to talk to a team member!

Extreme weather can happen at any moment, leaving your home vulnerable to damage. Unfortunately, homeowners can face costly repairs even without seeing massive destruction to their residences. Inspecting a home for storm damage after severe weather can ensure that unknown problems will not become expensive repairs later.

Performing a Storm Damage Inspection

After experiencing extreme weather, the first thing a homeowner should do is perform a storm damage inspection. This process entails both outside and inside examination to take note of any possible issues.

Some situations that will require you to examine the state of your home for damage include:

• Flooding
• Fallen trees
• Lightning strikes
• Heavy rains
• Flying debris from high winds
• Excessive winds

Knowing what to look for and where to look can save you time and money when you are inspecting a home for storm damage immediately after the event. In addition, the sooner you can determine issues, the quicker you can get to repairs to minimize future problems.

A Step-by-step Guide to Inspecting a Home for Storm Damage

Assessing any damage your home incurred due to a recent storm will indicate what you will deal with for cleanup and repairs. Handling the aftermath of severe weather can be problematic if you don’t know where to start.

Here is a simple step-by-step guide to inspecting your home for storm damage you can follow the next time extreme weather hits.

• Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
• Step 2: Look for Harmful Debris
• Step 3: Examine the Roof’s Condition
• Step 4: Look at the Home’s Exterior
• Step 5: Check Out the Windows
• Step 6: Explore for Yard Damage
• Step 7: Check the Air Conditioner and Electrical Appliances
• Step 8: Look for Water Stains or Spots Inside
• Step 9: Examine the Attic, Basement, and Crawl Spaces
• Step 10: Call Your Insurance Company

Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe

Before heading outside to start looking for storm damage, you want to make sure you and everyone in the home are safe. Broken or fallen power lines can be deadly, so avoid these areas until a professional can secure them.

Step 2: Look for Harmful Debris

Do any trees have broken branches or fallen in your yard during the storm? Often with severe winds, items will blow around and cause damage to nearby structures. A proper storm damage inspection will include debris in your yard or around your home.

Step 3: Examine the Roof’s Condition

Thankfully, you do not have to get a ladder and start climbing your roof. Instead, walk around the outside of your home and look at the roof for debris. See if you notice any missing or broken shingles or areas where they raise up.

If you have a chimney, see if the metal flashing material around it is dented, raised up, or missing.

Step 4: Look at the Home’s Exterior

While inspecting a home for storm damage, see if you have any siding damage or visible problems with your eaves, gutters, and downspouts. Broken or clogged gutters and eaves can cause damage to your home long after a storm if water cannot correctly drain away from your roof.

Step 5: Check Out the Windows

Do you have any broken or cracked windows? Inspect each outside window frame and glass for cracks, breaks, holes, or separation with the edges. These issues can create further problems if water can enter your home due to cracks or gaps between the house’s walls and a window.

Step 6: Explore for Yard Damage

Many homeowners will have other structures in their yard. When inspecting a home for storm damage, examine garden sheds, kids’ playhouses, fencelines, and anything else in your outdoor living space that may have issues.

Step 7: Check the Air Conditioner and Electrical Appliances

If you have an air conditioner for your home, check out the entire unit. Look for broken pieces, disconnected hoses, or leaking water from the unit. Do not operate it until you are sure it is in proper working condition.

Next, examine your electrical appliances in the home. Some major appliances can sustain electrical damage during lightning storms. Check the plugins where they sit for any charring or burnt marks and see if you detect an electrical smell in those areas.

Step 8: Look for Water Stains or Spots Inside

Do a thorough walk-through of your home and examine the walls and ceilings for any water stains or wet spots. These areas can indicate a leak from outside. If you have any roof damage, take extra care to examine the ceiling below those damaged sections.

Step 9: Examine the Attic, Basement, and Crawl Spaces

Many homeowners will overlook their attic and crawl spaces, only checking the basement for flooding. While you must inspect the lower levels of the home, do not forget to check the attic and crawl spaces for signs of water. Often roof damage or cracked siding can leak water into these areas before it reaches inside your home.

Step 10: Call Your Insurance Company 

Once you complete your storm damage inspection, take stock of any visible damage your home has, and make a call to your insurance company. Be sure to write down any issues you found and keep records of problems with your home.

Depending on the damage and your insurance company, they may send an adjuster right away.

Inspecting a Home for Storm Damage Is Vital 

Navigating cleanup and repairs after a severe weather occurrence can be exhausting and costly, depending on the damage your house suffers. Following this storm damage inspection checklist can help make this stressful situation a little easier for homeowners.

Remember that if you are not comfortable inspecting a home for storm damage or there is a risk of injury due to debris, a call to the professionals is a safe and reliable option. Storm damage experts can assess your property for any possible damage and help get your home cleaned up and back to new quickly. If you need a reliable contractor for your storm damage inspection, contact A to Z Construction today.

After a storm rolls through, you might find storm damage on your commercial or residential property or building. Storm damage in MN can be something small, such as broken tree limbs scattered about, or more comprehensive, including roof storm damage.

You might need storm damage repairs, but you don’t know what your next steps are. This quick resource answers your questions about residential and commercial storm damage, so you can confidently take the next steps:

Your roof is a complex system. Once a tree limb has torn through your home’s shingles, you may have several different reasons for concern. For example, different types of weather can expose your home to damaging elements that impact the integrity of your roof. Storms can create leaks, damage flashing or gutters, and affect the structural integrity of your roof.

While you may not be able to prevent damages from inclement weather, there are steps you can take after a storm to protect your home before another one rolls in.

At A to Z Construction, we understand that storms happen. When they do, our roofing contractors are here for you every step of the way. We work with homeowners throughout the Minnesota area to provide a full spectrum of storm damage inspection and repair services. We want to make sure that your roof is repaired before the next storm rolls in so that we can return your home or business to normal as quickly as possible.

In this article, we’ll talk about what to expect during a storm damage inspection and how it will benefit you in the long run. We’ll also talk about why you need the assistance of a storm damage professional.

But first, let’s cover the basics.

How Can a Storm Damage Your Roof?

When a storm passes, it’s not just the high winds and rain that can damage your roof. Storms can be damaging in other ways too, such as:

Feather Tree Branches

High winds may uproot trees. If these trees fall on your home’s roof, they could cause significant damage. Feathery tree branches that catch the wind can severely damage your roof as well.

Storm Surge and Flooding

Did you know a strong storm surge or flooding can increase the force of the water on roofs? A breaking wave will push a wall of water toward land, which often includes anything in its path – including your home’s roof. Flooding can also cause internal damage like warped floors, walls, and ceilings which may need to be attended to.

Severe Winds

High winds can damage your home’s roof in several ways. If the wind is strong enough, it could peel back shingles or even tear them right off your home’s frame. High winds can also turn your roof into a sail that’s pushing your home in the opposite direction.

Ice and Snow

Snow and ice can also cause significant damage to your roof. If snow piles up too fast or melts and refreezes during winter, it can put tremendous pressure on your entire roof structure. Maybe you’ve heard of the term “snow load,” and that’s what we’re talking about here.

Hail Damage

Hail can damage your roof too. The hail size doesn’t necessarily matter; most homes’ roofs aren’t built to withstand such a beating.

While all of this is scary, don’t panic. You can take proactive measures to help protect your roof and avoid additional damage.

The Inspection Process During the Wake of a Storm

Now that you know what can damage your roof during a storm, let’s discuss what to expect during an inspection.

At A to Z Construction, we use infrared cameras and moisture inspections as part of our regular checkups for our customers. These tools help our roofing pros diagnose problems that may not be so easy to spot when walking around on your roof.

In addition, we’ll check your gutter systems for any damage or clogs when inspecting your property after a storm. Our team will also walk over the exterior of your home in search of anything that might disrupt the structure. We ensure our work is efficient, fast, and 100% free of damage to your foundation or yard.

After recording all the findings, we’ll present you with a detailed report and go over it with you – answer any questions you may have about what was found and how it could affect you in the future.

After reviewing this report, our team members will offer the necessary repairs to restore your home to its pre-storm condition.

Why You Need A Professional For Your Storm Damage Inspection

A storm damage inspection is definitely something to be concerned about. But why should you trust your home’s roofing assessment to an experienced and professional team like the pros at A to Z Construction?

Experience

Having worked with homes throughout the Midwest, we know what signs to look for. Using top-of-the-line infrared cameras and moisture detection technologies, our inspection process is thorough. However, don’t just take our word for it – check out some customer reviews to find out why people come back over and over again.

Quality Assurance

At A to Z Construction, we believe in doing things right the first time around. We carefully document and measure all of our findings to ensure a quality roofing inspection every time.

Attention to Detail

While the wind is rattling your windows, you won’t have time to focus on what’s going on with your home’s foundation or exterior. That’s why we’ll walk over to your property after the storm to make sure everything is in order. If we find anything, our team will let you know right away.

Why You Need The Inspection After a Storm

Protecting Your Investment

Your roof is one of the most essential components of your home. It can impact your energy efficiency, your resale value, and even the comfort of your living space. That’s why you should consider investing in a seasonal storm damage inspection by an expert like A to Z Construction. These inspections help determine if there are damages to be fixed, and they also help you prevent future problems with your roof. 

Understanding Your Roof’s Condition

Moisture inspection is one of the most essential components of a storm damage inspection. This tells your roofing company if there are any leaks or issues with your gutters to attend to. If your roof is leaking, you may not even know about potential damages under the surface. Your inspection will point these out, so they don’t become a problem later down the line.

Contact A to Z Construction Today

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That’s why it’s so important to have an expert roofing company inspect your home after a storm passes. For quality services and peace of mind, rely on the pros at A to Z Construction. We are available to help you 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Contact us now to receive your free quote for an assessment of your home’s roofing, foundation, and exterior.

Siding is one of the most important features of the exterior of a house. It is responsible for:

• Protecting your home from animals, harsh weather, and intruders.
• Adding structural support and insulation to your home.
• Determining the overall look of your house, making it stand out or look unsightly in the neighborhood.

Over time, your siding may start to show signs of damage. It may give way to water or animals that can cause severe problems inside your house. They may even affect the structural integrity of your home if left unattended for too long. When this happens, you will need to fix the siding and also any related issues, which can be quite costly. Therefore, you need to know when your siding needs to be replaced.

At A to Z Construction Inc., we offer quality siding installation and replacement services. We know how important it is to get the job done right. That is why we want you to learn how to recognize when your siding needs replacement to get it done before it leads to further destruction of your home.

Indicators That You Need To Have Your Siding Replaced

Cracks

Small cracks on the surface of your siding are normal. They can happen when you attach different parts of your siding together. However, if the crack is bigger than an inch or more, it may not handle harsh weather conditions effectively. You need to replace the affected part before it’s too late, especially if you live in an area that experiences intense weather.

Mold and Mildew

Another common issue is the appearance of mold and/or mildew on your siding. While this can happen during rainy seasons, you need to act quickly if there are signs of mold growing inside your house. This is due to moisture seeping through cracks or holes in your siding. Mold can cause respiratory problems for you and your loved ones. If left unchecked, it can also cause structural damage to your home.

Warping

Your siding can warp due to prolonged exposure to sunlight or rain, especially if it’s made from materials that do not have the required levels of durability. In addition, warped siding does not offer protection for your house and only makes it more difficult to fix any related problems. If your siding has already warped, it’s time to replace it with more durable materials.

Holes and Loose Areas

Holes and other defects in your siding can be dangerous for you and your family. They could attract insects that live outdoors or cause water damage to the walls of your house. In addition, it will not be able to withstand strong winds and rain.

Age

While it’s normal for your siding to show signs of wear and tear, you need to determine whether they can last longer. You should replace your home’s siding if it is more than twenty years old because the materials used to make them may have become brittle over time. You also need to consider that your house may have undergone structural changes over the years. This can affect how your siding is installed and attached to your house.

Paint Peeling

One of the biggest signs that you need to replace your siding is when the paint starts to peel off on some areas. Over time, the paint may become brittle due to exposure to various elements such as heat and water. Your siding may not be able to withstand these elements without the required coating. In addition, peeling paint can spread to other parts and damage them as well.

High Utility Bills

If your siding is not properly installed, it can cause heat and cold to seep into your house. This can significantly reduce or increase the temperature inside your home, which means that you will incur higher utility bills in the long run. In addition, if water gets through cracks or holes in your siding, it may affect the heating and cooling system in your house.

High Maintenance Costs

If your siding constantly needs repairs, it’s time to consider replacing it. Repairs can only do so much, and you cannot avoid the need for replacement. You will continue to make repairs until your siding is no longer useful, which means that you will spend more money in the long run.

Damage to Your Foundation

Your foundation plays an important role when it comes to your house’s structure. If your siding is not installed properly, it could affect the foundation and affect your house’s overall stability. You can identify damage to your foundation by cracking or sinking walls, doors that no longer align properly, and visible cracks on the floor.

Rotting Wood

Your siding is attached to the walls of your house. If there are cracks or holes in your siding, water can get into these areas and cause the wood to rot. Rotten wood can cause serious injuries if stepped on because it is weak. In addition, it can attract termites, which may cause even more damage to the structure of your home.

To avoid these problems, you need to determine whether you need to replace your siding with a more durable material or hire a professional to look for damage and fix it. Whether you choose the latter option or not, make sure that you watch out for any signs of deterioration.

Why You Need a Professional To Replace Your Siding

You may think that replacing your siding is not a big deal. You only have to buy the necessary materials and get it done in a few days. However, you need to understand that your safety may be at stake if you decide to do this without professional assistance.

Professional siding contractors know how to install new siding correctly and in accordance with local building codes. They also know how to determine which materials will be the best for your home and environment. A contractor can help you decide whether it is better to repair cracks and holes or completely replace them with a new siding.

If there are any problems that need immediate attention such as water leaks, they can ensure that your foundation is properly protected and that your siding is properly secured. In addition, a contractor can recommend the best materials to use to extend the life of your home’s exterior wall.

Contact A to Z Construction

At A to Z Construction, we have the experience and expertise you need to ensure that your siding is replaced perfectly. We replace all types of damaged materials, whether they are made of metal, wood, or vinyl. As part of our service, we also provide roofing repair and a variety of other services that can benefit your home’s exterior.

For more information about our services, contact us today.

Roof damage is every property owner’s nightmare. Since roofing costs make up about 10% of total construction costs, it can be difficult to decide whether to do a repair or replacement. The cost difference between a roof repair and replacement can quickly add up to thousands of dollars. Making the wrong decision may lead to unnecessary expenditure, leaving a huge dent in your bank account.

While insurance companies may pay for your roof damage costs, not all damage is covered and there might be a push and pull before you get them to pay up. To help you figure out the best way to fix your commercial roofing problems, it’s important to have the damage assessed by a professional roofing contractor.

We’ll break down the differences between roof repair and replacement and when to consider each, to help you better understand your options for your commercial roof.

What to Consider Before Repairing or Replacing a Commercial Roof

Several factors come into play when making the decision about whether to repair or replace your commercial roof. For starters:

1. How Old Is Your Roof?

Every roofing system has an average given lifespan. The age of your roof will determine whether the existing damage is natural wear and tear or due to other factors. If your roof has served its guaranteed lifespan, it may be a good time to consider replacing it. However, if it’s only a few years old, investigate the cause of the damage and determine if it’s easier to repair. For instance, if your roof is leaking due to missing or broken shingles or cracked flashing, a repair by a licensed professional is more fitting to fix the problem

2. What Is the Extent of the Damage?

Extensive roof damage may not always be visible from the outside unless you know exactly what to check for—which is why you need a trusted professional. Minor damages are easier to fix and so a roof repair would be appropriate. However, extensive damage that is visible from outside indicates major roof damage. Signs of major commercial roof damage include:

• Cracked surfaces
• Stagnant water on the roof
• Damaged flashing material
• Presence of mold and algae in the building’s interior
• Interior water stains

A repair in this case would be like putting a bandaid on a deep cut, leading to a series of repairs that are costly in the long run. Think of it this way: If you’ll need a second repair to a particular damage some time soon, then it’s better to replace it once and for all.

3. Time Is Money – How Much Are You Willing To Lose?

Both commercial roof repair and replacement take time, and your business will be disrupted for the duration of the work. That said, roof replacement often takes longer than repairs given the weight of the workload that goes into replacement. If your business can’t afford to take a long break, you may want to consider a repair as a temporary fix then replace your roof at a time when business is slow.

4. Geographical Location Matters

Certain geographical areas are more prone to harsh weather conditions than others. If your commercial building is located in a hurricane or tornado-prone area, it’s important to repair any roof damage as soon as it occurs to avoid major roof damage down the line. Storm damage also affects the lifespan of your roof, so take that into account when choosing the type of roofing material, should you decide to do a replacement.

5. What Is Your Budget?

At the end of the day, the weight of your pocket determines what you can afford. Commercial roof replacement costs way more than roof repairs. However, should you need multiple repairs down the road, the costs will add up may exceed the roof replacement costs.

Once your roofing contractor conducts an assessment of your commercial roof’s damage, they can give you a cost estimate to help you weigh your options. In addition, your roofing contractor can help you find or better yet, provide you with roof financing options to help offset the repair or replacement costs.

Now that you have a clear understanding of what drives the decision between a roof repair and replacement, here’s a quick summary of when to consider either roofing solution.

Roof Repairs

A roof repair involves fixing a section of a roof subjected to damage such as:

• Leaks
• Rust
• Missing roofing materials
• Sagging roof
• Water damage
• And more

Roof repairs can be major or minor, depending on the extent of the damage. That said, roof repairs work best for minor roof damage. After a storm or bad weather, it’s important to inspect your roof for any signs of damage so you can get ahead of the problem before it gets worse. Regular roof repairs and maintenance helps extend your commercial roof’s lifespan, saving you from potential roof replacement.

Roof Replacements

As the word suggests, a roof replacement involves removing all the layers of the old roofing materials and replacing them with new materials. All components are removed and replaced, such as:

• Flashing
• Decking
• Drip edge
• Underlayment
• Vents
• Waterproofing

Commercial roof replacement is most ideal for an old roof that has been weathered down by age. The lifespan of commercial roofs is between 10 to 40 years, depending on the type of roofing material. While the installation costs may be costly, a complete replacement can save you from having to do multiple repairs, which may cost even more than a replacement.

A Professional Roofing Contractor Makes All the Difference

Whether you choose to repair or replace your roof, your choice of contractor can either make it or break it for you. You need an experienced and licensed contractor who will provide you with excellent roofing services to ensure your roof stands the test of time.

At A to Z Construction, quality roofing work and customer satisfaction is the driving force for our business. We handle every project independently and tailor our services to suit every client’s needs. Contact us today for a free roof inspection.