A house with a snow-covered roof showcasing the expertise of The Roof Masters in roof installation.
By The Roof Mentors Roofing Tips 0 Comments

Common Winter Roof Damages and What You Can Do About Them

Winter and everything it brings might be your favorite season, but your roof might not think so. Snow, rain, ice, and cold temperatures test roofs in North Carolina. That’s why we’ll warn you about winter roof damages we see all the time. When you know where the problem might occur, it’s easier to prevent it, so you won’t have to deal with any damage.

Missing Shingles

Even the new, perfectly installed roof can lose shingles due to strong winds. But roofs that aren’t maintained are prone to blow-offs. Luckily, they rarely happen out of the blue. There are usually some early signs, such as cracked or bent shingles. We always say that everyone should check their roof after every storm to be sure it’s intact. Weather doesn’t forgive and uses every chance to show its might on random homes.

And roofing problems grow fast, especially during winter. If you notice those signs or already have missing shingles – consider that your top priority. Once all your shingles are in perfect condition, your chances of getting leaks during winter are much lower. But be careful…

Ice Dams Are Known To Cause Leaks

We all love the warmth of home during winter, but the temperature inside the house warms up the attic hence the roof. If there’s any snow on top, it melts and then freezes again once it touches the edges of the roof. If that keeps happening, your home gets a pretty white ice dam. And while it might look romantic, it’s a glacier on steroids.

Ice dams cause leaks because they slowly melt and freeze from the bottom all the time. Warm air from the house melts them, and cold from the outside freezes them. And as that happens, drops of water accumulate in tiny lakes. Yet lakes like to grow, and water loves to seek new ways, so it penetrates under shingles.

And that’s not the worst part…

Some roofs endure months with early signs of leaks. But ice dams are different because once water enters small cracks and the temperature falls – it freezes and expands. So literally every time water freezes and melts, the crack grows, and the leak gets more serious. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain and inspect your roof.

Icicles Can Get Heavy

Tiny icicles might look nice, and, to be fair, they aren’t the most dangerous thing in the world. But can still cause damage.

Melting water can get into small cracks, freeze, expand… You know the drill. So look at every icicle as a tiny ice dam that might give you a headache if you let it grow.

But if the weather gets penguin-worthy and big icicles form around the edge of your roof, it may be better to call someone. They can get heavy and solid. So do everything you can to remove icicles before they take over your roof. And don’t be too proud to seek help.

It’s Always The Punch You Didn’t Expect That Gets You

As you probably noticed, proper maintenance is the key to getting through the winter without roof damage. But that includes taking care of your whole property. Not just your roof. If you don’t trim your trees, strong winds will. And then you can only hope that big, heavy branches don’t hit your roof or even worse.

Luckily most homeowners are aware of that danger. But while they deal with big branches, twigs plot against them. Dead leaves and small branches clog gutters which either cause overflows (sometimes leads to flooded basements) or freeze and expand. And if something that should be watertight expands, it loses its purpose.

That’s why it pays off to seek help from someone who deals with roof damage daily. And if you’re looking for an experienced roofing contractor in Winston-Salem, NC, we are here to help.

A man wearing a mask and gloves is working on a roof for a roofing company.
By The Roof Mentors Roofing Tips 0 Comments

3 Reasons Why Roof Repair Should Be Your Top Priority

“If it isn’t broken, don’t repair it” might be true in some cases, but if we’re talking about roofs, that’s one of the worst strategies. If you notice any issues on your roof, don’t let them grow because roofing problems sometimes grow exponentially.

So it’s safe to say that…

The Longer You Wait, the More Expensive It Gets

Many homeowners think that losing a shingle isn’t a big deal, so they don’t do anything about it for months. And having a roof with missing shingles is terrible because it’s only a matter of time before more shingles get blown off.

Without shingles, the underlayment is exposed to weather conditions which almost always leads to leaks if not addressed for a long time. That’s how a small problem can grow into something serious. And it doesn’t always take long for a roofing issue to evolve.

If gutters need repair and a storm hits the area, the homeowner can expect water damage on the walls and in the basement. Unlike slow-developing leaks that sometimes take months to show visible signs, overflows cause damage in a couple of hours. Cracked walls, blistering paint, cracked sidewalk, or flooded basement. All of that can happen to people who don’t repair their gutters.

And each roof part can cause problems if not maintained.

If you notice your flashings are rusted or have hail damage, don’t wait. It’s easier to replace flashings than repair leaks. The same goes for roof vents. It takes 5 minutes to check it and a couple of hours to repair it, but neglect it; it could turn your attic into an empire of mold (and eventually cause leaks).

That’s why it pays off to deal with the problems before they get out of control, especially if you can do some of those repairs alone. But we still advise you to choose professional over DIY roof repair because it pays off in the long run (and you aren’t risking your health).

Poor Roof May Put Your Health At Risk (And Raise Your Bills)

We can’t talk about neglected roofs without mentioning what they do to everyone living under them. Roof vents and attic insulation affect your energy bills by regulating the temperature of the house, so they’re indirectly responsible for the health of your entire home.

Yet don’t forget that roof vent keeps your family healthy.

Mold loves humid, warm attics. And the worst thing is that you probably won’t notice before mold takes over the attic and starts showing as tiny black dots on your ceiling.

That’s why you should check your roof vent and attic more often. It takes you 5 minutes. Just climb to the attic with a smoke stick, light it and watch the smoke. Call your contractor immediately if the smoke floats around you because it’s a sign that your roof vent doesn’t work.

You Won’t Have Trouble With the Insurance Company

Insurance companies must protect themselves from irresponsible homeowners, so every policy says that wear and tear aren’t covered. It means that a representative of your insurance provider will come to check the roof before a repair to determine if the problem could’ve been avoided by proper maintenance.

That ties back to the first point – the sooner you address problems on your roof, the more affordable the repair will be. Neglect the problem, and it will develop into something more serious, expensive, and time-consuming.

So inspect your roof after every storm to be sure you’re up-to-date with all the problems (so you can avoid getting bad news from the insurance company). And it’s advisable to have at least one professional roofing inspection a year because contractors have the experience and tools needed to diagnose the issues before they become massive problems.

However, it matters who does the inspection. And to be sure you called the best local roofing contractor, get in touch with the roofing contractor Dunn NC with rich experience.

A roofing contractor performing roof replacement using a torch.
By The Roof Mentors Roof Repair 0 Comments

Why Choose a Professional Over a DIY Roof Repair?

We hope you’re one of the responsible homeowners who understand that roofs need care. But we also hope you’re reading this to decide if climbing to the roof and repairing it yourself is a good idea.

DIY roof repairs aren’t necessarily a bad idea. Yet you must know your limits. Or something from the list below might happen.

You Might Fall Off the Roof

There’s no need to sugarcoat things. Roofing is a dangerous job. If you aren’t a professional roofer, you shouldn’t do more than replace a missing shingle and clean gutters.

Some people forget that falling off the roof isn’t something that happens only in movies. Even pros sometimes take the wrong step and ruin their health. So if you don’t have to do it yourself, our advice is to call your roofer, especially if your insurance covers the damage.

You Might Pick Wrong Materials

Another mistake that happens during DIY roof repairs is using the wrong materials. People read stuff on forums without realizing that they live in a different climate. Or try to save money by using random shingles they find in their garages. Some homeowners put used shingles on their homes because it seemed like they’d work.

Don’t do that.

Even if you decide to replace a couple of shingles on your own, find the exact same model. Or call your roofer. It’s always best to pick someone local who has experience with North Carolina weather.

You Will Make Mistakes With Flashings

Everyone fears leaks. Yet some people approach flashing replacement like they aren’t a big deal. We’ve seen many poorly installed flashings in Dunn, NC. Most of them were DIY replacements, but it happens to some pros that they don’t seal everything properly.

So if you don’t have experience with flashings, please, don’t try to replace or repair them. There’s almost 100% that you won’t do a flawless job. And water finds its way under everything less than perfect.

You’ll Think You’re Nailing it; But Your Home Will Just Get Hammered

Replacing one or two missing shingles is a simple DIY roof repair, so we understand if you’re tempted to give yourself a go and nail those shingles to the roof.

However, the technique matters. You can’t just put 50 nails in a shingle; it’s not an old leather shoe. You can’t put 4 random nails either.

Your location determines the type of shingles your roofer recommends and the technique they use to install them. In Dunn, NC, rain and strong winds aren’t rare. So if you add new shingles without using the proper nails, technique, or nailing pattern – the repair will be for your eyes only (at best).

You Probably Postpone Problems, Not Resolve Them

Sorry for the pun(s) above.

For your eyes only means that your DIY roof repair might be simply masking the problem. Of course, if you have some experience, and the problem isn’t big, go ahead and bond with your kids or friends. But if you feel that reading blogs and watching roof repairs on YouTube isn’t enough, save yourself from trouble.

There are better ways to bond than replacing rusted flashings. Let us, the reliable local roofing experts from Dunn, NC take care of your roof. You’ll be sure it’s in perfect condition (and you’ll be sure you won’t fall from your roof).

The Gutter Masters is a gutter cleaning and roof installation company in San Diego, California.
By The Roof Mentors Gutters • Roof Repair 0 Comments

5 Unexpected Dangers of Clogged Gutters

Life in Raeford, NC, is beautiful. Yes, summers are hot, and rain can be annoying. But at least winters aren’t like the one from the Game of Thrones. In Raeford, most people don’t brace themselves before the winter comes.

And that’s a big mistake because Raerofd gets rain every month (and some snow during the coldest part of the year).

We won’t talk about the importance of a healthy roof. You know you need to replace a roof that leaks more than the colander. We’ll focus on gutters. People neglect them, which leads to the terrifying things you’ll see below.

Clogged Gutters Are Like a Fuse Around Your Home

Most people don’t think about this… Homeowners connect gutters only with rain and water. But another element is known to take advantage of neglected gutters.

“Fire!”

Yes. Dry leaves, twigs, granules from damaged shingles… All of that is perfect for catching a spark. However, it’s not very often that a fire starts in the gutters. So if that disaster doesn’t make you clean your gutters, the next one surely will.

How Much Faith in Your Foundations Do You Have?

Gutters are there to escort water away from your house. If they’re clogged during heavy rain, overflows are inevitable. Sometimes walls crack because of that much water. However, that’s not very often.

You’ll probably notice that paint peels at some places long before they crack (address that problem on time, so you don’t have to deal with serious issues later).

But… Even though seeing cracks in the walls of your home may seem scary, that’s not the cause of the problem. Walls cracks usually happen when the foundation of a house suffers water damage (or your roof leaks a lot).

Soil and concrete around the house absorb water and put pressure on the foundation. That’s where the real problem is. Yet, water damage on foundation walls is sneaky. People who never go to their basements don’t notice it on time. That’s why we suggest inspecting your whole house after every storm (especially if you had overflows).

Because if you don’t… You might get a free swimming pool. But it won’t make any of your neighbors jealous.

Do You Plan to Turn Your Basement into a Swimming Pool?

So let’s recap.

Clogged gutters can’t take water away from the house. That leads to overflows. And thanks to simple physics, water has nowhere to go but down. As you already know, that tests your foundation.

But if there’s too much water, your basement could flood even if your foundations were fine before that. Note that we used were fine instead of are fine because once your basement floods, you can expect water damage on your foundation.

Would You Like to Pay For Sidewalk Repairs?

We know you’re a good person who gives to charity and cares about people around you. But would you do your community a favor and pay for the new sidewalk in front of your house?

Yes. Not cleaning your gutters can cost you that much.

Concrete absorbs water. And water creates more space every time it passes. That’s how canyons are made over millennia. Yet, concrete is much softer than rocks, so it doesn’t take 10 million years to erode and crack.

Fascia Boards Aren’t Diamonds, Wood Isn’t Forever

We know that all those gutter scenarios are scary. Those are all serious issues. And they don’t happen all the time (but they aren’t rare either).

Still, leave all that debris in your gutters, and you’ll notice water damage on your roof. Wooden fascia boards are the first to suffer. Wood absorbs water and widens. That makes it crack, and as the board dries, it shrinks, which makes the paint peel (and widens the cracks).

Then because problems don’t come alone, you’ll start noticing other roof issues. And almost all of that could be prevented by showing your roof enough care.

So… Do what you can for your roof. Call the experienced Redford, NC roofer to do the rest. Even if your roof is new, letting pros inspect it once a year would make you sleep peacefully during storms.

A house with a shingled roof.
By The Roof Mentors Roof Replacement 0 Comments

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Roof Replacement in Hope Mills, NC

Roof replacement is a big step for every homeowner. We hope every replacement happens because people want to feel safer in their homes. But sometimes, the weather messes up the whole thing.

And that leads us to the first of (out of nine) frequently asked questions about roof replacement in Hope Mills, NC.

Does Insurance Cover Roof Replacements?

Yes. And no.

Yes (in most insurance companies):

  • if the damage is the result of a sudden accidental event or caused by nature.

No:

  • if you need to replace a roof because of poor maintenance (you can’t forget about your roof and expect insurance to cover that).

Roofs that could legally crack a cold one (21 years and older) are partially covered by insurance (if at all), so you should always check your insurance policy to be sure.

How Often Should You Replace Your Asphalt Shingle Roof in Hope Mills, NC?

The climate in Hope Mills isn’t extreme, but summers are still hot, and there’s a lot of rain. That means roofs deal with heat, UV radiation, moisture, and temperature shifts. If it’s sunny the whole day, and the rain hits, that will cool the roof quickly. It’s not a big deal (and it’s not that you can control the weather).

But you can control your roof to an extent. If you take good care of it, an asphalt shingle roof can last over 20 years. However, depending on the weather and damage suffered, shingle roofs may require replacement once every 12 years.

When Is a Roof Replacement Better Than Repairs?

We understand that you want to save money if money for a replacement comes from your pocket. However, sometimes it’s better to let the sinking ship sink and get a new one.

The short answer is – if 30% or more of your roof is damaged, it’s better to replace it.

What’s the Best Time of the Year for a Roof Replacement in Hope Mills, NC?

Summer rains aren’t rare in Hope Mills, NC. In fact, July is the wettest month. That’s not the best time for a roof replacement because you may need to reschedule several times. And it’s hot.

If we need to pick a season, then it would be the fall.

But if we need to be more specific – November is the best month to replace a residential roof in Hope Mills, NC. Then it’s least likely to rain, and temperatures are bearable.

How Long Does a Roof Replacement Take for Ordinary Homes?

Replacing a roof takes from 1 to 7 days.

It’s usually done in one day. But if the roof is very big or unusual, it can take longer.

Should I Be Home During the Roof Replacement?

If you trust your roofers, you don’t have to be home when they replace your roof.

However, many people like to stay there during the replacement to keep an eye on the workers. Some homeowners even take photos during replacement to ensure they have everything documented in case of problems.

Some roofers are annoyed by that. Our workers love it because they have nothing to fear or hide. They even pose for pictures.

Does a New Roof Lower Energy Bills?

Replacing a roof lowers energy bills. New roofs are more heat reflective (especially if you’re clever while picking a shingle color). New vent and insulation will reduce the temperature difference between the attic and the living area.

That means you won’t spend as much on air conditioning and heating.

Does Replacing Your Roof Increase House Value?

Yes, but not as much as you’d think. Still, if you want to sell your house, you can’t do it if the roof is damaged. And if you want to keep living in your home, you can’t afford to have a bad roof.

So, even if getting a new roof doesn’t increase the value of your house, it will boost your quality of life.

How to Know You Picked a Good Contractor for Roof Replacement?

If you’re thinking about a new roof, find a contractor who is:

  • Highly skilled and has a proven record
  • Sticks to deadlines
  • Honest and doesn’t promise the impossible
  • Transparent about everything they do
  • Keeps you updated throughout the project

And we at The Roof Mentors have all those traits, so you can chill while we replace your roof in Hope Mills, NC.

A house with a rain gutter and the words the roofing masters.
By The Roof Mentors Roof Repair • Roofing Tips 0 Comments

Is Your Fayetteville Roof Ready for the Spring Rains?

For a lot of people, springtime is their favorite time of the year. The weather gets nicer, days are longer and warmer, and there are more outdoor activities. But along with all the good things springtime has to offer, there are some downsides, as well – especially for your roof. 

And in the Fayetteville area, this usually means rainy days, afternoon showers, thunderstorms, or a sudden rain that pops out from nowhere. So, when it comes to your home, you need to protect it from heavy weather conditions, meaning you have to keep the rain outside where it belongs. 

Even one small tear on your roof could lead to a hole that keeps leaking every time it rains, and this could lead to long-term water damage. 

That's why you need to make sure your roof is ready for the spring rains! 

But don’t worry, it’s not so stressful if you do it right. The Roof Mentors are here with some useful advice.

Why Inspecting Your Roof Matters

The two most important parts of your home are its foundation and its roof. Your roof is what defends your house from rain, making sure it stays nice and dry. Therefore, you should never ignore a problem with your roof. 

Even if there is just a small leak or if you see dampening stains on the inside of your house, it’s best to take care of it immediately because the problem won’t go away on its own – you have to take care of it. 

DIY home improvement is not a bad thing, but we advise you to always call the pros when you see the need for repair work because one bad DIY repair job could potentially lead to the need for a brand-new roof. 

Count Your Shingles

Okay, you don’t really need to count the exact number. However, you do have to check your roof to see if all of the shingles are in place and in good condition. This is probably the most important part of your roof. If you see a shingle or two missing, don’t ignore this issue. Have them replaced immediately. 

Otherwise, there could be a domino effect. If one shingle falls off because of the rain and heavy winds, the next time it rains, another one could fall off – or even a dozen at once. Before you know it, entire sections of the roof could be gone, and you could be looking at some major repairs. 

Make Sure There Are Plenty of Granules

As the years go by, your asphalt shingles will see signs of usage. If they are close to being worn out, you will most likely notice a lack of granules on them. Shingles need the texture of granules to provide your roof with adequate protection. Not just from the rain but also from hail, sun exposure, possible fires, and wind. 

This shingle wear and tear is the result of normal weathering, which is something beyond your control. What you can control, on the other hand, is how serious the issue will become. In other words, you should always address it quickly. 

In addition to that, when granules fall off, the problem usually spreads across groups of shingles. This is why homeowners replace them in bulk instead of doing micro repairs on one shingle at a time. 

Be Responsible and Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

A strong roof means a safe house. You can actually enjoy the rainy season if your roof is ready. In order to do that, run a preliminary inspection of your roof, and if you see anything potentially damaged, forget about DIY repairs. You don’t want to risk your safety by climbing the roof and doing repairs on your own.

Instead, call the experts!

The Roof Mentors are your best choice when it comes to roofing repair Fayetteville NC. Give us a call and we will gladly help you out with advice or an on-site inspection of your roof. And if there is any work that has to be done on your roof, we will take care of it quickly and efficiently, so you can relax.

Top Spring Roof Maintenance Tips
By The Roof Mentors Roofing Tips • Residential Roofing 0 Comments

Top Spring Roof Maintenance Tips: Fixing the Problem Before It’s Too Late

We require our roofs to take on such a big responsibility all year long. They have to protect us from snow in the winter as well as from the rocky summer heat. And that’s why spring, the milder season in between, is generally the perfect time to get your roof inspected.

Spring typically means that it’s been a while since you last checked up on your roof. And with so many things happening before and potentially during this season that could potentially damage it (snowstorms, hail storms, fallen tree branches), now is the best time to take care of any potential problems before they worsen.

So, what can you do and where to focus your attention? Read on as we list some top tips for your spring roof maintenance.

 

Take a Look at Your Entire Roofing Surface from The Ground

The first thing you can do is have a look at your roof, i.e., perform a visual inspection from the ground. What you should be looking for are any missing or broken shingles, debris build-up, moss, algae, broken flashing, detached gutters, and any other obvious damages. These can usually easily be fixed before they cause any more damage to your roof – provided they are caught early on.

 

Check and Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Remove any debris from your gutters and downspouts that has built up over time, including leaves, twigs, branches, any other kind of debris. You can either do this yourself or hire a professional to do it for you. This is very important because one of the most common issues with gutters is clogging, which leads to water backing up and spilling over onto the roof, causing serious damage over time.

 

Check for Leaks Outside and Inside Your Home

A leaky roof can cause a lot of damage in a short period of time, so it’s important to take care of it as soon as you can. So, make sure to check for any visible leaks outside, on top of your roof, but also inside, where leaks are most likely to present themselves. If there are any, you might notice water stains on your walls and ceilings, paint peeling, or mold.

 

If Your Roof Is Older, Think About a Replacement

If your roof is more than 20 years old, it might just be time for a replacement. Older roofs are more prone to damages, leaks, and structural issues, so it’s best to talk to a professional about what the ideal course of action for your roof will be. Sometimes, it will be more cost-effective in the long run to get a new roof than to keep fixing the damages that come up.

 

Take Care of Any Potential Problems Before They Worsen

It is always best to be safe than sorry, so make sure to deal with any roofing issues that were potentially uncovered during the inspection and maintenance, no matter how small they may seem. This will give you peace of mind but also prevent more costly repairs and unnecessary stress in the future.

The Roof Mentors are always at your disposal to help, so don’t hesitate to schedule an inspection with our qualified local roofers Raeford, NC, to make sure everything is still in good shape and that there are no potential problems waiting to happen.

Everything a Homeowner Needs to Know About Filling a Roofing Insurance Claim
By The Roof Mentors Insurance Claims 0 Comments

Everything a Homeowner Needs to Know About Filling a Roofing Insurance Claim

When your home is damaged, it’s important to take the right steps to ensure that the damage is repaired properly and as quickly as possible. 

And filing a roofing insurance claim is one of the most important steps homeowners can take when their home is damaged. But many homeowners don’t know exactly what to do, how to start the process, or what it entails. 

That’s why we’ve put together this guide on everything a homeowner needs to know about filing a roofing insurance claim. We’ll discuss the types of damage that are covered by insurance, when homeowners should call in an experienced contractor, and more. 

So read on and let us help your roofing insurance claim process go over as smoothly as possible!

 

What Is an Insurance Claim and When Should You File One?

An insurance claim is a request for benefits that may be payable under an insurance policy. A homeowner’s insurance policy may cover damages to your roof caused by wind, hail, or other elements. But filing a roofing insurance claim is a bit different than filing a regular insurance claim for some other type of damage. 

When filing a roofing insurance claim, it’s important to follow specific guidelines and protocols in order for your claim to be successful, and you also want to be sure the right documentation is included with your claim. A professional roofing contractor, such as The Roof Mentors, can provide expert help with this part, as well as with all other steps in the process, ensuring it all goes successfully.

In addition to that, filing your claim as quickly as possible can help ensure that the damage is repaired properly and on time so that it doesn’t cause further damages and more costly issues.

 

Types of Damages That Are Covered by Insurance 

There are many types of damage that are covered by insurance, and the most common ones include wind damage, hail damage, and water damage.

Wind damage is usually caused by high-speed winds, which can result in a storm or tornado-related damage. High-speed wind can cause serious damage to homes, such as shingles being ripped off roofs and even structural damage. 

Hail damage is usually the result of a severe hail storm and too much rain. The hailstones can be anywhere from pea-sized or marble-sized to golf ball-sized, and, of course, the larger they are, the more damaging they will be.

Water damage usually occurs after a flood but it can also be the result of a severe storm. Storms like hurricanes, for example, bring high-speed winds that can cause roof shingles to get ripped off, resulting in big leaks and subsequent water damage.

 

Filing the Claim: Main Steps to Take

When you find that your home has been damaged in a storm, the first step you should take is to contact your trusted local roofing contractor for an inspection. They will conduct a thorough assessment of the damages, document everything, and advise you on the next best step.

And that step is usually contacting your insurance provider and explaining to them what has happened. They will then schedule an appointment with an insurance adjuster, and you will need to gather and provide some specific documents to them. 

The documents that are needed may vary depending on the insurance company but some of the most common documents include a proof-of-loss form, proof-of-damage form, and a contractor estimate.  

Your roofer can help you gather and fill out all this documentation, and it is also advisable to have your roofer with you during the adjuster appointment to make sure everything is done professionally.

Once everything is done, you will, ideally, get an offer from your insurance company for the financial coverage of your roof repair or replacement, whichever is needed.  

 

The Roof Mentors Are at Your Service

Filing a roofing insurance claim can be a daunting task. But with the right information and the right Hope Mills roofing contractor by your side, it can be easy to navigate the process. The Roof Mentors can even take the entire process off of your hands, relieving you of all the unnecessary stress and ensuring that your claim is approved quickly and successfully. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to us anytime!

5 Things That Could Endanger Your Roof This Winter
By The Roof Mentors Roofing Tips • Residential Roofing 0 Comments

5 Things That Could Endanger Your Roof This Winter (And What to Do About Them)

Since winter is known to be particularly harsh on roofing systems, causing various issues, it’s important to try and stay one step ahead of them. 

The best way to do that is by educating yourself on what you, as a homeowner, can expect in the following unpredictable months. That way, you’ll be able to tackle the issues early on and keep your home safe and sound.

It’s rarely a good idea to just leave your roof at the mercy of the outside elements, hoping for the best and waiting until spring to address any potential issues. On the other hand, it’s always a good idea to deal with problems as they come or try to prevent them altogether with the help of an experienced professional.

With that in mind, let’s have a look at the biggest roofing issues you should watch out for this winter so that you can prepare yourself (and your roof) adequately.

 

Snow Damage

Snow can do much more damage to a roof than most people think. 

When snow falls on your roof, the heat emitted by your home slowly melts it and drains it through the gutters. But, when there’s more snow on your roof than can drain on its own, it will start to accumulate and begin to seep under the shingles. So, be very careful when it comes to this, as it could lead to major roofing issues.

One thing you can do is use a shovel and try to remove the snow yourself, but be cautious not to hurt yourself or accidentally damage your roof. Furthermore, some homeowners also use salt or calcium chloride when attempting to melt the snow, which is another good idea, but we urge you to be as careful as possible. If not used properly, there’s a small risk that it might cause some unfortunate damage to your roof.

If you don’t feel comfortable doing these things yourself, that’s okay! You can always leave it to roof professionals, such as The Roof Mentors, to keep your roof in top shape during these months. After all, it’s your best chance at staying safe from the cold, avoiding damaging your roof, and keeping your warranty.

 

Ice Dams

When it comes to winter roof dangers, ice dams are among the most common issues that can occur on your roofing system. They are especially likely to form on roofs in areas with an abundance of snow and ice. 

So, what exactly causes ice dam formation, and what can you do about it? 

The main reason you often notice ice dams on your roof is the uneven temperature distribution. Typically, the upper areas of your roof are warmer because of the warm air that rises from the inside of your home. But the lower-hanging areas, such as roof edges, tend to be much cooler.

The snow accumulating on the roof will start melting towards the cold edges and then freeze, creating a layer of ice that we call ice dams. The larger and thicker they grow, the more dangerous they are, as they can cause water to seep under the shingles and straight into your home.

To get rid of this problem, you should have your gutters cleaned before winter, making it easier for the melted snow to run off of the roof. Also, consider installing proper attic insulation and ventilation to prevent your roof from overheating.

And finally, to minimize the risk of melted snow refreezing, you can try raking it off of the roof as soon as it starts accumulating, especially from the edges.

 

Icicles 

Icicles are similar to ice dams, and they are the result of the exact same processes mentioned above. 

In addition to ice dams, clogged gutters and downspouts will further enable the formation of icicles. They will allow the water from the melted snow to pool inside the gutters and the edges of the roof, inevitably leading to icicle formation when the temperatures drop below freezing.

While icicles may sometimes look appealing, they are a serious hazard for you and your roofing system. They can easily fall down, which can be a huge safety risk if you or your loved ones are walking beneath them. 

Moreover, their weight can prove to be too much for your gutters, fascia, and roof edges to handle, pulling them down and even damaging them.

Fortunately, the same principles that will help you get rid of ice dams work here as well. Keep your gutters clean and unobstructed, make sure your ventilation is fully functioning and clear the snow frequently.

 

Attic Condensation 

Did you know that winter and snow can cause just as much damage to the interior of your home as to the exterior? Not to mention that these types of problems often lead to even more serious issues.

When heating your home during the winter months, the hot air will rise all the way to the attic, and without a proper way to escape, it will keep lingering there. Upon coming in contact with a cool surface on the roof, the hot air will condensate, creating moisture build-up in the attic.

The moisture will continue to cause mold and mildew formation and wood rot, all of which can be a health and safety hazard for your family, as well as your property. So, what’s the best way to stay ahead of attic condensation? 

It’s actually quite simple. All you have to do is make sure that you have proper attic ventilation and insulation. They will control indoor temperatures and allow the air to circulate in the enclosed space.

 

Stay Safe This Winter

While winter is undeniably a beautiful season that brings many joys, it also comes with some risks to your home. Luckily, with proper preparation and the necessary safety measures in place, you can easily steer clear of all of these damages and have a problem-free winter. 

Your #1 roofers Fayetteville NC are here to help you keep winter damages at bay, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us in case you’re experiencing any of the mentioned issues or if you simply want a roof check-up. 

An image of a tree on the roof of a house showcasing the need for roof replacement.
By The Roof Mentors Roofing Tips • Insurance Claims • Roof Repair 0 Comments

Here’s What to Do When Wind Damages Your Roof

Have you recently been hit by a storm?

Severe storms accompanied by high winds and heavy rain can be hazardous, so if you are concerned that your roof has sustained storm damage, you need to act quickly to prevent injuries and further damage. Every hour after the storm counts and makes a difference in the scope of the overall damage and repair cost.

Wind usually presents the biggest challenge for poorly installed roofs and roofs that have already been damaged, but it is known to affect even the most durable roofing systems. Strong winds blowing at around 60 mph can lift the shingles from your roof, cause the gutters to rip, or cause trees to fall on your house.

And when this happens, there are some crucial steps you should take to prevent long-term damages and safety risks. Read on to find out what they are!

 

Ensure Your Own Safety

The first thing you need to do during and after a storm is to make sure you and your family are safe. Stay away from trees, exposed wires, power lines, and structures that seem unstable. Be mindful of any other things that could create an unsafe environment, and make sure not to go outside or do any work until the storm has fully passed.

 

Inspect Your Roof 

Once the weather is clear and only when it’s safe to do so, you can go outside to check for any obvious damages around your home and on your roof. Look around for missing shingles, any holes and dents, pieces of stripped flashing, and similar damages. Make sure to do all this safely from the ground, without climbing on top of the roof and risking injuries. 

In addition to that, check if the gutters have become loose, dented, or completely torn away. While outside, you can also remove the debris around your house, but in no case should you remove a fallen tree. In such an event, make sure to call emergency services and a licensed roofing company.

You can assess and document all the damage you’ve noticed by taking photos and videos of the affected areas, which can come in handy when filing your insurance claim.  

 

Avoid Storm Chasers

In the aftermath of a severe storm, there is a great chance that you’ll be visited or approached by the so-called storm chasers. Storm chasers are exactly what you’d think and what their name suggests – roofing contractors who show up wherever a storm occurs, offering speedy and often cheap roofing services. 

However, these out-of-town roofers are not who you would want working on your roof, as they usually lack skill, proper training, knowledge, or even the will to do proper, quality roofing work. 

Therefore, it’s always best to steer clear of them and rely on your local roofers who have your best interest and safety at heart.

 

Contact Your Roofer and the Insurance Company

Now it’s time to get a professional inspection from your trusted local roofer and start the insurance claims process. 

Wind damage is usually covered under your homeowner’s insurance, but check your insurance policy just in case and contact your insurance provider to report the wind damage your roof has suffered. 

You will then have to gather all the needed documentation to file your claim and the insurance company will send an adjuster to your home to inspect the damage. You can also employ the help of your roofer throughout this entire process if they offer assistance with roofing insurance claims and let them help you file your claim successfully.  

 

The Roof Mentors Are at Your Disposal

If you need any type of help with wind damage repair or your insurance claim, The Roof Mentors are here to help! We offer complete roofing and roof insurance Fayetteville services, ensuring that everything goes as smoothly as possible. 

With us in your corner, your roof will be in top shape and your insurance claim approved in no time. So, call us today and increase your chances of resolving wind damage quickly and efficiently!