Is your roof requiring frequent repairs every stormy season? Chances are it might not be, it needs some maintenance. Maybe you’ve hired a roofing service that was cheap and unreliable. There can be many scenarios, but what matters is the money that goes into roof repairs. While there are many reliable Atlanta roof repair companies, they can be expensive because they deliver quality. However, there are cost-effective roofing solutions that can give you peace of mind for quite a while.
Identifying the Problem: Assessing Roof Damage
A proper inspection can spare you from potentially costly repairs and spending. Begin by assessing the external structures and internal trappings of your roof. A few things to look out for are signs of damage such as missing, saggy, and cracked shingles. Examine the ceilings and walls for signs of watermarks, as these may be early signs that your roof is leaking.
Further, you can use binoculars to check out areas that might be difficult to reach from the ground. Check where the flashing is since it is usually prone to leakage, especially around chimneys and vents. If you are at ease climbing a ladder, do so to get a clearer shot. You should take preventive measures including putting on non-slip shoes and using a good-quality ladder.
DIY Roof Repair Strategies
Here are some DIY strategies worth jotting down:
Replacing Shingles
Gently extract the spoiled shingle and any nails that may still be stuck. Place the new shingle into the appropriate position and then fasten it with roofing nails. Your new shingle should be placed correctly for it to interlock with the other shingles above and below.
Sealing Leaks
Tiny cracks or gaps within the roof can be sealed using special roofing sealant. Remove dirt from around the crack, spread the sealant widely, and apply it uniformly in the direction of the crack length. Make sure that the sealant penetrates everywhere around the affected area to avoid further leakage.
Fixing Flashing
Poor or damaged flashing lets the water leak through the surface of the building. Trim a new piece of flashing to the size, insert it, and then fasten using roofing nails. Fix the overlapping seams with roofing cement to guarantee a tight seal.
Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor
If DIY is not feasible, the next best thing is securing the services of a reputable affordable roofing contractor. Seek recommendations from friends, family, and even neighbors. Word of mouth is best to locate reputable contractors or construction companies. Also, read reviews and ratings on the Internet, such as Yelp, Facebook, or Google.
After compiling a list of prospective contractors, ask for bids from at least three different contractors. When comparing quotes, pay attention to the price and the services they offer the materials, and the contractor. Further, request contractors to provide you with references and insurance proofs. A credible contractor should not have an issue providing them.
Maintaining Your Roof for Long-Term Savings
1. Roof inspection should be carried out at least two times a year preferably in spring and autumn. Check for any form of cracks, chippings, or any sign of any kind of destruction of that material.
2. Blocked gutters may cause further mess and deterioration of walls. Cleaning out gutters blocked with debris will go a long way in keeping water away from the roof.
3. The roof is one of the most vulnerable structures of your house which trees can easily damage. Cut off any branches that are closer to your house and they may cause problems such as falling on the roof.
4. Clean your roof consistently to get rid of leaves, branches, and other forms of debris. Gathering debris can cause rot and the development of mold as water stagnates on the accumulation.
5. Do not ignore minor problems such as loose shingles, small leaks, etc. Hence, dealing with them when they are small means of avoiding them escalating to become huge expenses.
Financing Roofing Repairs on a Budget
1. If you have any equity in your home, get a home equity loan. These loans are normally cheaper than other types of credit such as personal loans or credit cards.
2. Some government programs and non-profit organizations have available grants for home improvement, including roofing. See if you are eligible for any state or federal programs.
3. If your roof was damaged by an incident your homeowner’s insurance may pay for the damage. Check your current policy and notify the insurance company for a claim.
4. Some roofing contractors allow customers to pay for the services in installments or come up with a payment plan. Discuss these options with your contractor if you wish to level your expenses throughout the years.
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The Final Verdict
If you maintain your roof by following these tips and solutions, it will last at least as long as its expected lifespan. Keep in mind that if your roof deteriorates before reaching its lifespan, it’s likely due to your negligence. So, don’t wait and start with the roof assessment phase now.
