Sometimes a roof repair becomes urgent, such as freezing weather and extreme temperatures. Here are some things to think about.
Putting off roof repair is never a good idea but there are some situations where it becomes a downright catastrophe if reparation isn't done. A roof is the covering for all belongings and structures within one's home-sweet-home. If it's faulty,
everything will be affected including wallboards, ceilings, carpeting, electrical systems, furnishings and of course, the inhabitants. Many homeowners put lots of attention into all the parts of their house that they can see such as the décor, the landscaping, the external and internal paintjob. Because the roof is out of sight, too often it is also out of mind. A homeowner may have no idea of the problems going on above their head until they've actually sprung a leak. By that time, there's big trouble already underway and damage has taken place to many parts of the structure. It's important to haul out the ladder and broom and climb up there every few months to survey the shape it's in. What to look for:
- Loose or missing shingles: These must be replaced or tacked down ASAP.
- Flashing that's gone or loose: Flashing is the metal edging that protects corners and spots that tend to turn problematic without this extra protection. If it's not there, look out for leaks ahead.
- Piles of leaves, twigs or other debris: This is a pool-of-rainwater waiting to happen.
- Clogged rain gutters: Rain gutters must be kept clear so that they can do their job of letting rainwater and melting snow flow off the rooftop. If these gutters are stuffed with leaves, they won't be functional.
There are times when procrastinators need to get their acts into high gear or they will have a catastrophe on their hands. Here are some times when roof repair must be performed immediately if not sooner:
- Big storm predicted: If the weather channel has been calling for hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy winds and thunderstorms, your rooftop better be nailed down securely. If there are a few relatively loose shingles, they will not be able to withstand the winds and natural disasters heading your way. Even if the big storm misses your house this time, the weather on the edge of the storm system may be enough to knock your top off.
- Bulging ceiling: You settle down on the couch with a cup of tea and suddenly notice a bulging ceiling. What's that swelling coming from? If you've been having rainy weather but have ignored the maintenance of your roof, you may be in for an unexpected surprise. Shortly after a ceiling bulges, it collapses. This occurrence is expensive to repair and downright dangerous.
If a neglectful homeowner figures it's no big deal to have storm damage or a collapsed ceiling since he or she figures that the insurance company will pay for repairs, he or she may be sadly disappointed. If damage results because of neglect, many insurance companies will decline the repair claim and even cancel the coverage. A responsible homeowner must protect his or her investment and take care of roof repair before it becomes an urgent situation that results in catastrophe.
