Why is Springtime Best for Commercial Roofing Repairs?

Keeping your roof in good repair is essential to avoid major problems down the road. Sometimes problems can be so severe you might have to shut down operations while it’s being repaired, and that can have a serious effect on your bottom line. Tackling small problems early is the best way to avoid this. No matter how high quality your roof is, the constant harsh UV rays of the sun, wind, rain and debris can cause small maintenance issues for your roof.

So when is the best time to get these repairs done? Obviously, if you have a serious issue with your roof involving water leakage or missing roof tiles or shingles, that is something that needs immediate attention. If you have repairs that can wait, spring is often the best time of year to do them. Here are several reasons why springtime is the best season to have your commercial roof repaired and maintained.

Repairing all of winter’s damage

Winter tends to be the roughest time for your roof. Even here in Southern California we can get our share of intense storms that may damage shingles or tiles. Other parts of your roofing system are vulnerable as well: ventilation pipes, gutters and flashing. All of these may need attention after winter’s storms give way to the pleasant spring weather.

Waiting until winter is finished is helpful as well. It can be difficult to get work done when more storms keep blowing through. So when the sunshine has returned, it’s a great time to get started on all those roof repairs. Remember though, that no matter what time of year it is, if you are having water intrusion from the roof, or you notice serious damage taking place, reach out to Horizon right away.

Less weather interruptions

Winter in Orange county can be unpredictable. Sometimes, it feels like it’s a really mild year, but then a huge storm rolls through. You never really know. When you wait until around April to get started on your roofing repairs, you can be fairly sure that work won’t have to be delayed just because of wet weather.

It’s not just winter that can cause delays. Though we love our mild summers here, we do have our fair share of heat waves. Scorching summer heat can send roof temperatures into triple digits. That can mean work might have to slow or stop until things cool off.

More available start dates

The busiest time of year for roofing companies is definitely the fall. As the days get shorter and the weather gets cooler, many businesses are looking to shore up any roofing that needs attention. This means it can be more difficult to secure a date to start your project.

Getting that work done in the spring means many more open slots. When fall comes, you can sit back and relax, knowing you already took care of all your roofing repairs. Since spring is a less busy time, roofers are often able to get through each project a little faster than when they are working on multiple projects at once. This means less disruption for your company.

Spring repairs means lower summer cooling costs & winter heating costs

By having your roof inspected and repaired during the spring, you’ll be preventing problems that lead to cold and warm air leaks. This is essential for keeping your HVAC costs in check. Any cracks or leaks in your roofing system mean that the scorching heat from the sun is more likely to enter your structure. This can send your air conditioning costs through the roof on those hot days.

Similarly, you want to do everything you can to minimize cold air from getting in during the winter months, which means you won’t be spending more on heating costs.

What maintenance do you need when spring comes?

The first step in any springtime commercial roofing maintenance is to schedule an inspection with Horizon. We will come out and take a first hand look at your roof. We’ll go over all necessary repairs and give you an idea of what things need to be done now, and what things might be able to be scheduled for another time.

Your expert roofer will take a look at gutters, flashing, tiles and all other roofing materials to make sure everything is in tip top shape. Anywhere there’s damage, we’ll be able to make minor repairs to make sure that when the storms do come, water will roll off the roof the way it’s supposed to.

When your roofer takes a look at your roof, they can also give you an idea of the general condition, so you know how to plan for the future. It makes much more sense to spend on smaller repairs for a younger roof. When the roof is closer to the end of its predicted lifespan, your roofer can give you a good sense of when it’s time to think about replacement.

Spring maintenance keeps your commercial building looking great

Part of springtime roof maintenance means removing any debris, moss and dirt that has accumulated during the winter. Doing so is an essential part of making sure that water is channeled away from the roof, rather than pooling where it can do damage.

When the maintenance is completed, your roof will look great, fresh and renewed. This sends a message to your customers that you care about keeping your place of business in tip top shape. It looks professional and can set you apart from your competition. Customers and clients notice these small details!

When should you call to set up an appointment?

Remember that if you have questions at any time of the year, give Horizon a call. We can let you know if it’s a problem that can wait until the spring, or if it needs to be addressed now. You should never wait to fix problems that are leading to water damage, or present a structural or safety issue.

For regular repairs, give us a call in early spring and we’ll get you on the schedule right away. This means we’ll be able to start your repairs quickly and finish the job right on time.

Sources:

https://ranchroofing.com/spring-roof-maintenance/

https://www.abmservicesandrenovations.com/heres-why-spring-is-the-best-time-for-roofing/

Horizon Roofing – serving the Orange County, CA area – is your reliable local roofing contractors. We specialize in residential roofing and commercial roofing and have been in the industry for over a decade. We have excellent reviews and look forward to serving your need.

Call us on(714) 328-1967, email us at horizonroofingcompany@gmail.com, or contact us here today.

April 6, 2022April 22, 2022

What Can I Expect My Roof Estimate to Be?

What Can I Expect My Roof Estimate to Be?

Issues with a roof can lead to big headaches. Whether a roof is leaking or aging, replacing a roof can be a costly endeavor. Many wonder what the estimated cost of their roofing needs will be. Typically a complete roof replacement can range anywhere from $1,200 to upwards of $30,000.

However, the general average is between $5000 and $10,000. While repairing or replacing a roof is one of the more costly repairs a homeowner can incur, the return on selling a home with a quality roof is thought to be as much as 60%.

Materials Matter When Replacing a Roof

If you are looking to do a complete replacement or even just a repair, the materials utilized for the job are essential in considering the cost you wish to pay. When asking for a roofing estimate, ask what materials will be used.

Spending less may seem ideal. However, you could risk having cheaper materials used in your home, which will cost you more in the long run because it will wear out faster than a more optimal material.

Professional Quality Work is Better

When you receive an estimate for your roof replacement or repair, it is crucial to consider how well the work will be done. Even if the end goal is to sell your home and a replacement or repair is necessary, homebuyers will notice quality work versus a poorly done job. Hiring someone with a solid performance record is worth the investment.

Roof Estimate for Reshingling Roof

The national average cost for a complete re-shingling of a roof is $7,200. The price will vary depending on the cost of materials and labor. The project price will also vary depending on the size of the roof, and geographic location will also be a determining factor in the price of your repair. Typically roofers will estimate the cost of your roof replacement based on square measurement, which they calculate using the length and width of the roof and adding those two numbers together.

Cost Estimate of Replacing Three Tab Shingles

Three-tab shingles are the most cost-effective shingle option on the market. A square measurement of three-tab shingles typically costs around $150 to $200. However, be wary, as cost-effective is not the equivalent to quality. Building codes since 2012 generally warrant builders to utilize shingles that can withstand 90 mph winds. However, some builders will forgo this requirement and quote you a lower price using subpar materials. Taking the initial blow of a higher upfront cost for quality materials will save you a lot of money in the long run.

Cost Estimate of Replacing Asphalt Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles or laminate shingles are thicker and more durable than their three-tab competitor. Architectural shingles come in 30 or 50-year variants. Thirty-year architectural shingles can range in price but are nearly twice as high as the three-tab version running from $350 to $500 per square measurement. Fifty-year architectural shingles are considered to be the premium shingles on the market. They are thicker and offer excellent durability. The estimated cost to replace your old shingles with 50-year architectural shingles will run about $450 to above $750 per square measurement.

Cost Estimate of Replacing Roof with Metal Roofing Systems

Metal roofs have become popularized over the last decade. They are thought to be the pinnacle in cost-effective roof replacements as the need to reshingle is no longer applicable. However, the initial cost of a metal roof can be extensive depending on the type of metal used. Galvanized steel can cost upwards of $3000, while stainless steel can cost an eye-watering $14,000. Cooper takes the cake, costing upwards of $25,000 or more.

Factors that Will Impact Your Roofing Estimate

The extent of damage to your roof will have a determining factor in how much it costs to repair or replace your roof. Rotting wood underneath your shingles, for instance, can cause roofing companies to increase the original cost of the project. This is due to safety issues, but also, the timber would need to be repaired before new roofing could be applied. Extreme heat or cold can have an impact on your roofing estimate. If a roofing company has to provide excess materials or necessary breaks for workers, they may pass that expense on to you.

Removal of excess materials is yet another factor that could drive up the cost of your estimated roof repair. At times contractors will attempt to save a homeowner money by simply reshingling a home rather than doing a complete replacement. This is done to buy the homeowner time. However, when a total replacement is needed, an extra layer of shingles will cost more to remove than an original set would have.

Miscellaneous Items that Could Increase the Estimated Cost of Your Roof Repair

Inflation has left its mark on every aspect of the consumer market. This includes the cost of materials needed to repair roofing. For example, nails used to cost $16 a box but have since increased to $54 a box. Underlayment may also play a factor in your total roof replacement.

Quality underlayment acts as a waterproof barrier between the shingles and the timber. The majority of contractors will recommend adding this to your roof. Alongside a quality, underlayment is a water and ice overlay. While housing codes require roofs to have this added, some contractors will abuse this code and cut corners, neglecting this vital step. Starter shingles are another necessary expense as they will prevent water from soaking into the seams by allowing it to filter down off the roof.

Last but not least, be sure to ask your contractor about roof flashing. Roof flashing is a way to seal off joints in vulnerable areas, such as around chimneys. This step can be costly as it sometimes requires siding or cement board removal. Contractors will attempt to avoid this to lower the cost. However, skipping this step could allow your home to incur more damage.

Call us on(714) 328-1967, email us at horizonroofingcompany@gmail.com, or contact us here today.

December 29, 2021February 2, 2022

Roof Repair Cost: Minor and Major Repairs in 2022

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Roof Repair Cost: Minor and Major Repairs in 2022

With the new year arriving, it’s never too early to budget and plan for any roof repairs you’ll need in 2022. Preventative maintenance is your best bet to avoiding costly repairs down the road. Being able to plan out your preventative maintenance to-do list and minor repairs will help you budget and avoid that nasty last-minute surprise of a full roof replacement.

Knowing about how much your repairs are going to run is important when trying to set a budget for the coming year. We’ll give you a rough idea on how much fixing certain issues will cost you. Remember though that these are just ballpark estimates. Schedule an appointment with a roofer today to get a better idea of how much some of these will be in your specific instance.

Minor repairs

Asphalt shingles: if you want to repair or replace a 10 foot by 10 foot square of shingles, it should cost around $550-$1500. Asphalt shingles are very durable and when they are new, they can last up to 30 years. Over time, the shingles can become brittle, and when they do, they are prone to cracking. In areas with harsh weather like hail, you’ll find that the shingles can wear out quickly. Even sunny areas take their toll, with heat and those harsh UV rays beating down day after day. Thankfully, the earlier you address small issues like cracks, the more likely you’ll get a long life out of your roof.

Wood roofing: shaked and shingles made of wood will cost about $500-$1200 to repair a similar sized area. Cedar shake roofing is one of the most striking, gorgeous roofing choices you can make! It’s also an expensive investment in your house, so you’ll want to take care of it. Regular cleaning and inspection of the shingles can prevent water damage that can eventually invade your house.

Gravel roofing: even this fairly simple type of roofing requires maintenance and repair. First, you have to make sure an even layer of gravel is spread over the entire roof. Moss and other debris can’t be allowed to build up, or it will allow water to pool. The membrane underneath is essential for preventing water from penetrating below, so a good roofer will need to check and make sure there have been no cracks or breaks in the surface. This can be as simple as a $150 service call, but minor touch-ups will be a bit more.

Gutters: making sure you have a proper place for that water to run off is one of the simplest yet most important ways to keep your roof in tip-top shape. Gutter repair can be in the hundreds, and of course, it could cost $1000 or more to replace your gutters entirely. Most of the time, a good cleaning and slight adjustment are all you need.

Chimney repair: chimneys are a major source of water intrusion. They can also be prone to cracking and even collapsing if they aren’t looked after. $450 is a good starting point for most simple chimney repairs. When water damage goes undetected for a while, it can cause major damage.

Vent boots: like chimneys, these are places where roof leaks are common. Repairing a leak could cost a few hundred dollars. It’s so important to have these places regularly inspected because they are so prone to leakage. Just a couple hundred dollars can save you thousands down the road!

Major Repairs

Replacing multiple sections of shingles: every time you replace a section of your shingles, the cost is going to go up. So, if a single ten by ten section cost $1000 to repair, you can imagine how much doing 3 sections would be! This really highlights how important it is to take care of regular preventative maintenance. A simple $150 service call to check and clear debris might avoid a $1500 expense down the road.

Roof replacement: this is of course the most major roof expense you can have. If you need it, it’s worth it! Remember that the roof is all that stands between rain, snow, and hail and your nice comfy house.

The cost of replacing a roof depends on how large of a roof area you have. The nationwide roof size average is about 1500 square feet. The cost also depends on the roofing material you have. Here are some sample costs based on material.

Asphalt: An asphalt roof usually costs around $6,000 – 9,000 to replace 1500 square feet. The exact amount depends on exactly what grade of shingle you choose. There can be other factors like the color and pattern that can drive the cost up or down, depending on what you select.

Cedar Shake: The costs are similar for cedar shakes, around $6,000 – $9,000 for 1500 square feet. Again there are different grades of shingles that can affect the cost.

Concrete tile: Concrete tile roofs are exceptionally durable, but they require a lot of expertise to install correctly. Just 1000 square feet could cost up to $20,000. You’ll have a lot to choose from in concrete roofs. They come in flat, curved, spanish and barrel styles.

Conclusion:

The most important repair you can get right now isn’t a repair at all. Instead, schedule a roof inspection as soon as you can. Service calls usually start at around $100-$150. This way, a qualified roofer can tell you the condition of the roof and any repairs that need to be done now, as well as those that can wait until later. They’ll also be able to accurately give you the size of your roof, which is very helpful in estimating your costs down the road.

Often maintenance alone is a way to head off many problems. Getting sticks, leaves and other debris cleared out of valleys and shingles can prevent water from pooling. Other issues will just develop as a matter of time, and when you know what to look for, you’ll know how to plan and budget for it!

Call us on(714) 328-1967, email us at horizonroofingcompany@gmail.com, or contact us here today.

December 14, 2021February 2, 2022

Handling Roof Repairs and Replacements as a Property Manager 101

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Handling Roof Repairs and Replacements as a Property Manager 101

Have you ever heard those fateful, terrorizing words: “Our roof is leaking!” You probably thought, “What do I do? Where should I turn? Who should I call?” Then, there’s the really big one: “How much is this going to cost?” Those are probably the questions going through your mind as a property manager, or worse keeping you up at night as you wait for that call from your tenants.

Don’t worry, we at Horizon Roofing are here to help. These tips will help you get started on the right path to not just getting your roof replacement done correctly, but perhaps avoiding it altogether. We’ll show you how to get the best work done at an affordable price.

Remember, you are going to have to explain to your clients who own the property how you handled this difficult situation. We’ll help you be in the best position to show that you are a professional when it comes to handling these unforeseen repairs.

Preparation is key

Don’t be pennywise and pound foolish. Schedule preventative maintenance today by calling professionals like those at Horizon Roofing. Getting your roof inspected regularly is key to avoiding middle-of-the-night phone calls from your renters, sending you into a panic.

When a licensed, qualified roofer inspects your roof, they can let you know how to plan for the future. You’ll get an idea of what needs you must address today, and what can wait. It’s much better to know that your roof will last another couple of years, so you can plan for a replacement, than to wait until it’s leaking.

Having a roofing inspection also helps address easy-to-fix items like the buildup of leaves or sticks that can allow water to accumulate, or a broken shingle here and there. These will cost little or nothing to correct now but prevent major repairs later.

Money Matters

It’s important to communicate this to your clients. You need to be financially in a good spot to handle these repairs. Nothing is going to complicate and compound things more than if you don’t know where to come up with the cash to pay for a repair.

It’s recommended that you set up a reserve bank account, and keep putting money away in it so that when the need arises, you are ready to go.

Repair or Replace?

This is an issue that comes up quite frequently. This is a conversation you’ll need to have with your clients as well. Sometimes, roof repairs can be fairly inexpensive, making the decision pretty easy. In other situations, the repairs required may be so extensive that starting from scratch may be a better idea.

Check the age of the roof. By knowing when it was installed, you’ll be in a much better place to make a decision. A good roofer can help you decide if it’s better to simply start from scratch. For example, if the roof is 28 years old, and probably should be replaced at 30 years, it doesn’t make sense to spend thousands of dollars on repairs, when you really should replace the whole thing in a couple of years anyway.

On the other side of the coin, perhaps a leak developed after only five years of the roof’s life. Then, it is much more likely you’ll want to focus on repairing the area that needs work rather than replacing the whole thing.

Don’t forget that new innovations in roofing materials may make a huge difference in heating and cooling costs, so that may nudge you in the direction of a replacement if the roof is getting a little long in the tooth.

Picking a Roofing Company

Preventative maintenance and picking a roofing company can go hand in hand. A great idea is to use a roof inspection as a way to evaluate a roofing company. Then, when you find a roofer you like, they can be your “on-call” service when repairs are needed, saving you time.

Ideally, you’ll find a few companies you like. If a roofing need arises and one is booked up, you’ll be able to call the next one and the next one, and so on, getting that repair done much faster. It’s scary and not recommended to fly blind and just pick a company at random! You won’t know how their work and reliability rate until it’s too late.

When the roofer comes out, you’ll want to take note of their professionalism. There are some important things you’ll want to look for:

Was it easy to get a hold of the company? If they didn’t answer your call, did they call you back quickly? If they don’t, try to imagine not being called back when your tenants are complaining about water leaks and the damage is increasing every minute.
Was the roofer who came out professional? Did they appear knowledgeable and helpful?
Do they seem overly pushy to do more than you need? A good roofer will not sugar coat bad news, but they won’t push you into doing a full replacement or buying more expensive materials if they aren’t necessary.
Very important: are they licensed? Are they carrying the proper types of insurance?

Communication is Key for All Parties

Whoever is paying the final bill for the roof repairs isn’t likely to be jumping for joy at the news. You’ll want to remind all parties that the roof is arguably the most important part of the structure. There’s a reason why people use the cliche, “a roof over my head!” Without it, water intrusion starts to affect everything else, including the people inside! If you’ve followed the tips we’ve given you, this conversation will be much easier.

Start by reminding the property owners how important it is to have a sound roof. Then, you’ll be able to continue by explaining why the roofer you chose is qualified, and charges reasonable rates. You’ll also be able to explain why repairing was preferable over replacing, or vice versa.

Remember, that preventative maintenance puts you in the best position to inform everyone about what to expect!

If you follow these tips, you’ll be able to show your clients that you are a true professional at property management!

Call us on(714) 328-1967, email us at horizonroofingcompany@gmail.com, or contact us here today.

December 7, 2021February 2, 2022

How to Fix Damaged Roof Shingles

Keeping your roof in good repair is literally one of the most important things you can do as a homeowner. A snug and well-maintained roof keeps the energy bills down, secures the structure from leaks and damage, and generally protects your investment.

With all that this one structure does, it’s no wonder that roof replacement is one of the most expensive home or business repairs. The good news is, a few damaged roof shingles does not merit a full-on roof replacement. Shingles can be repaired easily, extending the life of your roof.

In this article, we’ll share what to look for when it comes to replacing shingles, as well as several different ways it can be done.

When Do I Need to Repair or Replace My Roof Shingles?

A full roof replacement should be done around every 20 years or so. At this point, the whole thing will have reached a level of wear that can’t be patched. Individual shingles need to be replaced as soon as you notice an issue.

Scan for damage every month or so (or directly after a violent weather event like a storm, hurricane, or derecho). Look for individual shingles that are cracked, curled, or discolored. You want to fix a problem as soon as possible to avoid potential water seepage, which can lead to wood rot and warping. If you ignore or procrastinate over these smaller repairs, you may need to replace your roof far sooner than the 20 year mark.

Repairing Curled Roof Shingles

Shingles that are made from asphalt have a tendency to curl at the corners over time. The fix for this is simple if you catch it right away. All you need to do is glue it down, and this will prevent further curling–at least for a time.

Purchase roof sealant, and load it into a caulking gun for application. Add a small amount under the peeling corner, and then weigh it down with something sturdy (like a brick). Give it about 24 hours to dry, and then remove the brick. Problem solved!

Replacing a Roof Shingle

When a roof shingle becomes damaged, or if part of it is missing, you’ll need to replace it quickly to avoid more insidious damage. Shingles can be purchased at a retail hardware store or lumberyard (or you may even have some left over from your last roofing job). Find the closest match you can to the original shingle.

Gather Your Materials

You’ll need to gather a flat pry bar, a hammer, some roofing nails, and a utility knife. You’ll need to have 4 roofing nails per shingle for the initial installation. Remember that each subsequent shingle layer will have the nails pass through the course of shingles below.

Remove the Damaged Shingle

Use your pry bar to remove the first row of nails. Slide it beneath the shingle that is positioned directly above the damaged shingle, and gently lift if free of the sealer strip. You want to see the first row of nails underneath it.

Now slide the pry bar under the damaged shingle and pull it up. When the nail pulls out about a quarter-inch, slide the pry bar out, press the shingle back down, and use your hammer to pull out the nail. Repeat the same thing for the other three nails.

Next, slide your pry bar back under the shingle directly above. Repeat the process for the second row of nails. When all 8 nails have been removed, you can pull and dispose of the damaged shingle.

Replace with New Shingle

Remember to lay your courses properly. The nails from the lower half of the course above should also hold the top edge of the course below. Follow the pattern and line up the courses appropriately. Place, and then nail. Each shingle should take 4 nails, with 6 nails being the preferred amount for areas of the roof that experience a lot of wind and weather.

The last shingle on each row should be cut to size. When you reach the ridge, bend the shingle over it (ensuring equal length on each side), and then nail down with one nail on either side of the ridge. Be careful to hammer each nail straight, and not at an angle.

Repairing a Cracked Roof Shingle

If there is no piece of a shingle missing, it is simply cracked or torn, you don’t actually need to replace it. Repair the shingle by applying a generous dollop of roofing sealant underneath the crack. Press it down, then apply a small amount of sealant on top of the crack itself. Use a putty knife to spread it over the entire crack.

You can even camouflage the repair by checking your gutter for granules that have washed off of your roof. Gather a good handful and sprinkle it over the repair to cover it. The granules should stick nicely to the sealant and mask the fact that you repaired the shingle at all.

Important Things to Note Regarding Shingle Repair

While shingle repairs can be done yourself, you should only attempt these repairs if the grade of your roof is safe to do so, and you have the appropriate safety equipment in place. Not everyone will have the opportunity to do repairs themselves. If you don’t have a harness, hard hat, safety gloves, and tool belt, and ideally one or two people to help you, you may be better off having a professional step in. This is especially true of those who have very steep and/or high roofs.

The good news is that a simple shingle repair is not terribly expensive. While a roof replacement can be pricey, having roofing professionals keep it in good repair will still save you money in the long term by extending the life of your roof.

Call us on(714) 328-1967, email us at horizonroofingcompany@gmail.com, or contact us here today.

November 12, 2021February 2, 2022

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Roof?

The cost to repair a roof will be dependent on a few different factors. These factors include the damage, the cause of the damage, the size of the roof that needs repair, as well as the labor required. The major factor, however, is the material of the roof. A typical roof repair can cost anywhere between $367 and $1,592. Smaller roof repairs can cost anywhere between $150 and $400. In addition, labor can be between $45 and $75 an hour.

If the fix is simple and you are able to do it, then it could cost you only around $10 to $100 depending on what is in need of repair. Certain things such as cracked flashing and skylight leaks are able to be easily fix. However, if you are not comfortable making the fix yourself then let a professional handle it.

Cost According to Material

There are many different types of materials that make up your roof, some being easier to repair than others. The following is the average cost for each material:

Metal: The repair for a metal roof can cost around $1,600.
Asphalt shingles: This repair on average costs around $875.
Composite roofing: A repair for composite roofing is cheaper with an average of $450, however, these are more prone to damage than asphalt shingles.
Wood shake: The cost to install wood shake is pretty expensive, but the cost to repair it is only around $750.
Slate: Repair of a slate roof will cost around $1,570.
Tile: While a new tile roof is higher than a repair, repairs still cost around $1,000.
Flat: Flat roofs include foam and single-ply roofs and have an average repair cost of about $400.

What Causes a Need for Roof Repairs?

There are a few different reasons for needing a roof repair, but most are comparable. The following are some problems that might arise and would be in need of repair:

Missing shingles: Shingles can be blown off or lifted up if the wind is strong leaving the roof exposed.
Flashing issues: Flashing that is in need of repair can cause leakage. Flashing is used to redirect water in order to protect your roof, but the roof can start leaking if the flashing is damaged or becomes loose. This flashing can be located around skylights, roof valleys, chimneys, or vent pipes.
Sagging roof: Sometimes a roof can begin to sag due to weight, rot, and general wear and tear, among other things.
Ice dams: These form when snow that melted refreezes causing a buildup or wall of ice. These ice dams make it hard for runoff to make it to gutters.
Bad roof pitch: If your roof has a low slope then it could be easily damaged by wind. Low sloped roofs also aren’t the best for runoff during rain.

Will Insurance Cover Roof Repairs?

Whether your insurance covers the roof repairs will be heavily dependent on two things: your specific insurance policy and what caused the damage. Each insurance policy will be different. You may be able to get roof repair coverage through homeowners’ insurance, or it may not be offered at all.

Homeowners’ insurance will usually cover some sort of roof repair that was caused by natural occurrences, such as a hailstorm or a fallen tree. If the leak occurred due to age, lack of maintenance, or general wear and tear, then your insurance policy may not cover it at all. You’ll have to read your policy carefully or speak with an insurance agent to determine what your policy’s roof repair stipulates are.

Where to Look for Leaks in Your Roof

Though there are many different reasons for repairing a roof, leaks are the most common and can be the most detrimental. Your roof could be made of a variety of different materials, but there are still some areas that are more common to leak no matter what the material. You can check these spots for any sign of damage:

Flashing: Flashing is the metal that attaches vents and ducts to your roof, and it can age. Certain parts of vents that connect with the roof can deteriorate or crack causing leakage. The repair of any flashing is usually somewhere between $10 and $20.
Vertical slits: These are slits that are found between shingles. Water can go within the slits, and they can become corroded. Vertical slits can be bought in bundles and cost around $30 per bundle.
Chimneys: The chimney itself can be cracked somewhere which can allow water in between the flashing of it. Masonry caulk and flashing sealant can also be the cause of the leak due to corrosion. The chimney flashing can cost around $20, while the masonry caulk and flashing sealant are around $5.
Valleys: Valleys are where two panels that are sloped come together at a perpendicular angle. If the valleys are roughly cut, water could sneak its way into the gaps under the shingles which can cause leakage. Flashing products are used to protect valleys and the repair would cost around $20 for a piece that is 10 feet long.
Skylights: The problem could be with the skylight itself or the flashing. Flashing can become corroded from water running down a sloped roof and becoming trapped where it flattens, or the window can crack and let water inside. The skylight can be patched using silicone sealant that costs around $5, however, replacing flashing will cost between $25 and $80.
Granules: Granules are the rough surface of shingles that aids in protecting them from wear and tear and UV rays. Granules can sometimes become too worn down leaving a bare patch. Shingles can be bought in bundles that cost $30 and can then be replaced.

If you are aware of any leakage or damage, then you can possibly prevent any more from occurring. Maintaining your roof will aid you in the long run as it could keep it in better condition so you won’t have to spend money on a roof repair.

Call us on(714) 328-1967, email us at horizonroofingcompany@gmail.com, or contact us here today.

October 26, 2021October 29, 2021

7 STEPS TO TAKE IF YOU NEED EMERGENCY ROOF REPAIRS

roof repairs, roof repair, emergency roof repair, roof contractor, horizon roofing

7 STEPS TO TAKE IF YOU NEED EMERGENCY ROOF REPAIRS

Emergency roof repairs can be annoying. Not only are they frustrating to deal with, but they can also affect the structure of your house.

Emergency repairs can occur due to unexpected damage to your roof, often thanks to hazardous weather. You may also have a little roof leak that you are unaware of for days until you start seeing the signs of water leak in your home.

Whatever the cause, you’re going to need to hire a roof repair specialist to assess the damage and carry out repairs. But as you wait for the expert to come over, you’ll need to do something about the leaks.

You can follow these steps for some emergency roof repairs while you wait for the roof repair expert.

7 STEPS TO TAKE IF YOU NEED EMERGENCY ROOF REPAIRS

Here are 7 steps to take if you need emergency roof repairs

Stop the leak with a tarp
Patch the roof with roofing cement
Use silicone to stop the leak
Use a rubber sealant to stop the leak
Create a temporary cover out of roof flashing
Find a roof repair expert
Contact your insurance agent

7 STEPS TO TAKE IF YOU NEED EMERGENCY ROOF REPAIRS

A tarp is a quick and easy fix for emergency roof repair.

First, you’ll locate the leak area. Once you locate the area causing the leak, you can now cover it with a tarp.

The tarp will help keep moisture out, so make sure you drape it properly over the affected area.

A tarp can be used as a quick and easy temporary fix for a roof leak. You can now go up on the roof and cover the area where the water is entering with a tarp once you’ve found the leak.

Nail the tarp’s edges down after you’ve fitted it over the area to prevent the wind from blowing it away. Because this is an emergency repair that can be completed in minutes, always keep a tarp on hand.

PATCH THE ROOF WITH ROOFING CEMENT

Roofing cement can be used to repair cracks in your roof, patch holes, and make other emergency roof repairs. Roofing cement is available at any hardware store or on Amazon.

Here’s how you apply the roofing cement. Brush the debris out of the hole or crack, then fill it in with roofing cement. Most roofers will advise covering the cement with roofing mesh to make it more secure.

USE SILICONE TO STOP THE LEAK

Using silicone isn’t what you’ll call a long-term fix, but it is an excellent temporary measure.

It is ideal for fixing small holes in your shingle, flashing, or soffit. Some roofers use silicone around chimney areas, and this can wear out over time. If this is happiness, then reapplying the silicone can help stop the leak.

USE A RUBBER SEALANT TO STOP THE LEAK

A rubber sealant is another quick-fix material that you can try in an emergency. You can apply it to wet and dry areas.

If the cause of the leak is a small area, then you can apply the sealant directly. If it is a larger area, you may need to combine it with another technique listed here. You can use a sealant and a tarp, for example, to cover the area with the leak.

CREATE A TEMPORARY COVER OUT OF ROOF FLASHING

Roof flashing is a fragile material used in sealing leaky places under roofing. Water can run over the region without getting into the home because of the flashing.

All you have to do is apply caulk around the leak, tuck the flashing beneath the row of shingles, and press it against the caulk to keep it from leaking.

Place the flashing around the base of the chimney or in areas of the roof where the most water will drain. It is the most efficient way to stop a leak using if you’re using a roof flashing.

Professional contractors normally install flashing when the roof is being erected to increase the roof’s lifespan.

FIND A ROOF REPAIR EXPERT

The smart thing to do when you move into a new home, the smart thing to do is to find a roofing expert near. This way, you have time to carry out proper research and locate a reputable professional roof repair expert.
But most people don’t do that. They wait until they’re in a bind and start rushing around looking for a roofing expert.

If your roof is still in good shape, then do yourself a favor and reach out to a roof repair expert today.

If it’s already leaking, then try out the temporary measures listed above before reaching out to the nearest roof repair professional.

CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE AGENT

If you wish to file an insurance claim, you’ll need to contact your insurance company.

Do this once you’re done setting up a temporary measure to stop the leak.
Some insurance companies may require you to use their approved roofing company service, which is why you need to speak to them.

The last thing you want to do when your roof has a hole in it is get into a fight with your insurance company. So make sure you take care of the necessary logistics as soon as you can.

HOW TO FIND THE SOURCE OF A LEAK

There are two ways to find the source of a leak.

First, you check the roof to see if any object is piercing the surface of the roof. The other way is to go into your attic and track down the leak from there. Check for wood or rot damage while in the attic to help you track down the source of the leak.

If it isn’t raining, you may find it difficult to trace the leak from the attic. You can use a hose to spray the roof above a leak and check the attic for the exact area of the leak.

Once you find the area, mark it out and begin your emergency roof repair following any steps listed above.

Do you have any questions about roof repairs or maintenance? Are you looking for a reputable roofing company in Orange County, California? Then talk to the experts on Horizon Roofing. Call us on (714) 328-1967 or schedule a roofing inspection here.