The short answer is that you can handle minor issues (e.g. removing debris from your roof, tightening loose vent covers) but most issues requiring a roofer to come out to a house involve safety, structural issues, water intrusion into a house, and/or insurance issues. If you live in Tampa, FL, where powerful hurricane force winds, heavy summer rain fall, and tornado-like storm debris impact roofs on an annual basis, it is wise to have a licensed, professional roofing contractor come out to your house and provide an estimate for any necessary repairs before minor damage becomes major damage. Below is a simple guide to assist you in determining when to call for help!
How Do You Know If a Roof Problem Is Serious?
There are several warning signs of roof wear and tear that signal the time to get off the ladder and call a professional. Florida’s hot and humid weather accelerates deterioration, so what may appear to be a minor issue now can worsen quickly. Look for these warning signs around your home.
- Water stains on ceilings or walls after a storm
- Shingles in the yard or gutters after high winds
- A roofline that looks saggy, wavy, or uneven
- Daylight enters the attic, and musty damp smells waft through.
- Granules from asphalt shingles piling up near downspouts
If you spot any of these, a professional inspection is the safest next step. Getting a qualified roofing company to check your roof is the best way to find out whether you need a repair or a full replacement.
Roof Issues That Always Require a Qualified Contractor
The following are problems that you should never try to fix yourself. Each of them can cause significant harm to you, your home or your finances.
Structural Damage
Damage to a home’s roof from a fallen tree limb or flying debris can cause structural damage. The summer months bring many thunderstorms and tropical systems to the Tampa area. We have seen many instances of oak and pine branches falling from trees cracking through decking and bending or breaking roof trusses. Surface damage can cause problems such as sagging sections of roof that can collapse and allow water to enter a home. A licensed roofer can assess damage to appear to be surface level but actually be far more serious and perform the proper repairs to ensure that the framing of a roof is sound.
Missing or Loose Shingles
Loose or missing shingles may result from strong winds or inadequate attic ventilation. High heat and humidity found in Florida climates causes shingles to deteriorate faster than normal.
An Extra Layer of Roofing
Some contractors attempt to save money by placing a new roof on top of an old roof. This appears to be cost-effective, but it can create numerous problems including hazardous weight, damage to ceilings, and violation of Florida building codes and permitting regulations. A roof with more than one layer of roofing must be inspected by a licensed contractor to verify compliance with codes.
A Leaking Roof
A roof that is leaking is one of the most common signs of trouble. With heavy summer downpours hitting the Tampa Bay area almost daily, even a small leak can lead to mold, rot, and expensive repairs if ignored. Call a professional as soon as you see water coming in.
Failing Gutters and Downspouts
If your rain gutter system is clogged or broken, you are likely to end up dealing with water damage on your roof and around your foundation. A contractor can tell you whether a cleaning will do or whether you need a new rain gutter system installed to move all that Florida rainfall away from your home.
Poor or Improper Roof Installation
Poorly installed roofs can cause problems down the road, including structural damage and safety concerns. A poor roof install can also fail wind-mitigation and insurance inspections in the State of Florida. If you suspect sloppy workmanship on your new roof, have a qualified roofing contractor come out and inspect your roof as soon as possible.
What Happens If You Ignore These Roof Problems?
Waiting until the problem gets worse will inevitably cost more in the long run. What appears to be a minor leak in the roof can cause severe damage in a matter of weeks. A small opening in the roof can start to cause damage to the roof decking and insulation within a few weeks of rainy weather. Loose shingles can be further removed by wind in subsequent storms, resulting in repairs that could have started for $400 or less to a complete replacement for thousands of dollars.Further, insurance companies can deny a claim if they find that the damage could have been repaired for much less had it been repaired when first discovered. Repairing damage to your roof in the smallest manner possible is best when caught early.
Why DIY Roof Repair Is Risky
One of the biggest risks to homeowners is climbing up on the steep and hot roof of their home. The baked asphalt shingles become very slick and brittle in the afternoon heat. One slip on a two-story home could result in serious injury or even death. Not only could one miss the hidden cause of a leak but also could install materials in such a way as to void the warranty. In addition, most insurance claims require that repairs be done by a licensed and fully insured contractor. They must also be familiar with the special requirements for wind-mitigation in Florida. A professional has the safety equipment, materials and knowledge to do the job right the first time.
How to Choose a Qualified Roofing Contractor
Many roofers are not created equal. Therefore, it’s very important to choose carefully. The contractor you choose for your roof inspection should be a) a properly licensed and insured contractor in the State of Florida, b) have good local reviews, c) have knowledge of the local building codes, as well as the requirements for insurance inspections. A reputable contractor will walk your roof with you and explain in simple terms what he finds. He will also provide you with a written estimate. What does a roof inspection include?
- A check of shingles, flashing, and vents
- An attic review for leaks, moisture, and ventilation
- A look at gutters, downspouts, and drainage
- Photos and an honest repair-or-replace recommendation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I repair my own roof?
Basic tasks like clearing leaves from gutters can be handled by homeowners. However, tasks such as investigating leaks, missing shingles or any structural concerns should be handled by a licensed roofer as these types of projects can cause damage and result in the homeowner’s warranty and/or insurance being voided.
How much does a roof inspection cost in Tampa?
Many local companies offer free roof inspections. Paid detailed reports for insurance purposes can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 for average size roofs with average complexity.
How often should I have my roof inspected in Florida?
Typically you would want to inspect your roof once a year, plus right after a major storm or hurricane passes through. The heat, humidity, and heavy rain in Florida deteriorates roofing materials quickly and an early detection of damage can prevent further damage.
When does a roof repair become a full replacement?
While repairs can be cost effective for damaged areas of the roof, if the damage is too widespread, the decking has begun to rot or the roof is near the end of its service life, then replacement is likely to be the best value. Your roofer can estimate the cost of repairs against the age and condition of your roof to advise you of the best course of action.
Get Your Tampa Roof Inspected by Avatar Roofing
If you are dealing with any of these roof problems, choose a company you can trust to handle the job right. Serving the Tampa, FL area, Avatar Roofing offers free inspections, fast storm damage response, and honest, affordable service from a licensed, insured local team.You can contact Avatar Roofing today to schedule your free inspection and get peace of mind that any roofing issue will be taken care of the right way.