Emergency roof repair is something every Colorado homeowner should be prepared for. Your roof is your home’s primary defense against Colorado’s harsh weather conditions, protecting you from strong winds, hailstorms, and heavy snowfall, and more. That’s why it’s important for homeowners to prioritize the structural integrity of their roofs through regular inspections and maintenance.
But even with regular roof inspection and maintenance, catastrophes can happen without any warning. Knowing these 5 emergency roof repair tips can help you act quickly and save you from costly roof repairs.
Handling Emergency Roof Repair the Right Way
1. Cover Exposed Areas with a Tarp
Quickly covering exposed areas of a damaged roof (whether from a fallen tree limb, missing shingles, or storm damage) with a durable tarp can prevent further damage. Secure the tarp tightly and use roofing cement on nail heads to keep it in place. Contact a certified roofing contractor to assess the situation and make repairs.
2. Secure or Replace Loose Materials
High winds or debris can loosen shingles, tiles or flashing over time. If the conditions outside are safe for you to conduct an emergency roof repair, temporarily fasten any loose roofing materials and mark them so professionals can easily identify it when conducting repairs.
3. Watch Out for Sagging or Structural Damage
Heavy snow, fallen tree limbs or general wear and tear can cause sections of your roof to sag. If this is the case, avoid walking under those areas and immediately contact a certified roofing contractor. This is a serious structural risk that should be addressed urgently to prevent any physical injuries and further damage to your roof.
4. Document Everything
Whether you are 100% sure of what the damages are or you are completely clueless as to what’s wrong with your roof, take the following steps to document the damages:
- Take clear photos and videos of affected areas.
- Write down what you think the damage is.
- Write down any estimates, bills, or invoices you get.
Having all this information on hand helps the claims process go smoothly.
5. Report Roof Damages to Your Insurance Company
Many roofing emergencies are covered under homeowner’s insurance. The sooner you contact them, the faster they can send an inspector and begin processing your claim. Keep a record of your communication and claim number for reference.
Common Causes of Roofing Emergencies
Roofing emergencies can happen anytime, without any warning signs. Understanding the most common causes of roof damage can help you plan and take action for the future.
1. Severe Weather
In Colorado, hail storms, heavy snowfall and strong winds often damage the roof of many homes. It is essential to inspect your roof after a big storm for any damage that needs to be addressed before it leads to more costly repairs.
2. Fire
Fire accidents caused by a lightning strike or faulty wiring can happen. Have a certified roofing contractor assess your roof’s condition after the incident.
3. Lack of Roof Maintenance
Without regular inspections by a certified roofer or even the basic upkeep of clearing out gutters can allow small issues to go unchecked until they turn into costly emergencies. Unmaintained roofs can also attract small animals, which can create nests and chew holes in your roof and attic.
Roof Repairs By Certified Roofing Contractors
These emergency roof repair tips only serve as temporary fixes to help protect your home, make insurance claims less troublesome, and prevent potential injuries. However, quality roof repair requires the expertise of certified roofing contractors. Their deep understanding of structural safety, local building codes, and the roofing materials best suited for your needs will ensure that your roof will be repaired and back to protect you from the elements in no time.
