What to Look for When Repairing Roofs in Maryland
Repairing roofs is a task that you as a Maryland homeowner will eventually have to deal with. This article gives you an overview of the types of roofing repairs you can handle as well as informs you of the importance of hiring a qualified roofing contractor when the repairs become too extensive.
If you're a Maryland homeowner living near areas such as Baltimore, Ellicott City, Columbia, or Silver Spring, or even in Washington DC, read this article to find out if you can tackle your roofing repair alone or if you should hire a qualified professional to get the job done for you.
Causes of Roofing Damage
Damage to the roof of your home, such as leaks and holes, may be caused by several factors, including:
- Lack of Maintenance
- Weathering
- Wind Damage
- Improper Design
- Flashing Failures
However, if you establish a routine of regular roof maintenance, you can avoid almost all unnecessary damages.
Repairing Roofs for Homeowners
If you inspect your roof and find a problem, it doesn't always mean that you will need to replace your roof. In fact, many repairs can be made before a replacement roof needs to be considered.
Depending on the amount of damage you find, you may be able to choose between hiring a roofing contractor to take care of the repair or simply handling the task yourself.
To read a FAQ about the types of roofing repairs homeowners can complete themselves, please click here.
If repairs will need to be made to the structure of your roof, roofing expertise is a must. But even if structural work is not required to repair your roof, don’t hesitate to contact a roofing contractor to receive an estimate and find out what he or she thinks may need to be done.
The Importance of Roof Maintenance
Repairing roofs can often be avoided if you perform proper roof maintenance throughout the year. The rule of thumb is to get a roof inspection at least twice each year.
Outdoor Inspection
To inspect your roof from the outside of your home, use a pair of binoculars to check for any signs of the following problems:
- Loose or missing shingles or tiles
- Loose or exposed nails
- Dark patches on asphalt shingles
- Sagging on the ridges or in the center of the roof
- Rust in the valleys, plumbing vents or near chimneys
- Overflowing gutters or excess water pooling near the foundation of the house
NEVER walk on the roof as part of the inspection. It may cause further damage to the roof or potential self injury.
Indoor Inspection
To inspect your roof for damage from inside of your home, check for signs of the following problems:
- Sagging decking between the rafters
- Outside light that can be seen through the roof
- Signs of leaking in the attic
- Signs of water damage or leaking
If you cannot climb into high spaces, consider calling a roofing contractor to perform an inspection for you. Some contractors can be scheduled on a bi-annual basis to inspect your roof.
The Benefits of Hiring a Roofing Contractor
Repairing roofs alone can be a daunting task for a homeowner.
Installation can be risky if not done carefully, and there is no way of knowing if you have chosen the right roofing materials to complete the job. So, before taking on a task you may not be able to handle, consider hiring a professional roofing contractor.
A professional roofing contractor will have the expertise needed to inspect your roof and suggest how to best repair it. Most contractors can perform every task from completely removing old roofing materials, to totally replacing your old roof with a new one.
Furthermore, a professional contractor will certify that his or her repairs have brought the roof to code, guaranteeing that it will last for a certain length of time.
If the roof requires further repairs within that time period, the roofing contractor can be held responsible.
Repairing Roofs Requires the Right Person
Before you hire a roofing contractor, you should find out if he or she is the right person for the job. Ask the company for a list of references to check as well as search for other homes in the area that the company has worked on to examine the type of job they are likely to do.
Also, make sure the contractor is licensed and bonded, has proof of insurance, and is financially stable.
By checking out potential contractors before you hire one to complete your roofing repairs, you will avoid running into problems after they have already begun work.
For more tips on choosing a contractor for your roofing project, please visit the National Roofing Contractors' Association.
Why A-1 Roofing's Kanga Roof Is the Best Roofing Contractor for the Job
At A-1 Roofing's Kanga Roof, our professional roofing technicians are thoroughly trained to find all of the issues associated with repairing or replacing your roof.
Read what one of our customers had to say about our work:
“As a homeowner, repairing roofs was not something that I thought I could take on by myself, so I called A-1 Roofing's Kanga Roof to get an estimate on my repairs. I was so impressed with their professionalism and the quality of their work that I have recommended them to all of my family members and friends. Without a doubt, if you need your roof repaired, call Kanga Roof ASAP. It'll be the best decision you ever made!”
Joan Schaeffer, Baltimore, MD |
We serve the entire Maryland, Baltimore, and DC market, including (but not limited to) Columbia, Ellicott City, Silver Spring, Germantown, Dundalk, Rockville, Gaithersburg, Frederick, and Towson.
If you are looking for a Maryland roofing contractor, please call us today at 410-799-1600, or complete our online service request form.
Go from Roof Repair Maryland back to Roofing Services
Go back to the Kanga Roof homepage
|
