Whirlwinds, tornadoes, and a lot of rain can damage a roof. And if those leaks aren’t repaired, you may find yourself with water-marked walls or ceilings and the unpleasant odor of mold.

The good news is that many types of roof damage can be reversed with relatively inexpensive repairs. The trick is to know what to look for. Let Roofing Toms River NJ provide the expert help you need.

A leaking roof creates a number of issues in your home. Water can wreak havoc on walls and ceilings, ruining carpeting and wood framing. It can also lead to mold and mildew, which pose health concerns for family members. In addition, it can cause water to seep into electrical wiring, creating a fire hazard. Finally, if the leak isn’t addressed, your energy bills will rise as the leaking water soaks into insulation.

One of the first steps in repairing a leaking roof is to shut off the water supply and dry up any affected areas. Once this is done, it’s time to get started on the actual repairs.

The first thing to do is to determine the location of the leak. This is usually fairly easy. If you have an attic, head up there and use a flashlight to examine the area around where you’ve noticed water damage. Look for discolored shingles or flashing, as well as any signs of rot or moisture.

If you’re not comfortable climbing on a ladder, there are still options for getting to the source of your problem. You can try using a garden hose to spray down suspected areas of the roof, checking for dripping or dampness as you do so. You can also try removing a few shingles around the suspected area to look at the underside of the roof deck. This will allow you to see the condition of the flashing and caulking, which can help you figure out what the problem is.

Alternatively, you can try patching up the leak from inside your home. Depending on the severity of the leak, this may be a simple matter of using a roll of roofing repair tape or a rubberized patching material. For a larger leak, you may need to take the more involved step of replacing the flashing on a dormer, side wall or around a skylight.

A leaking roof is a serious issue that should be fixed as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more damage it will do to your home. Moisture can cause a variety of problems, from mold and mildew to rotting wood and damaged drywall. Leaking can also be a fire hazard, and an influx of water can cause your home’s insulation to lose efficiency, increasing your energy bills.

Roof Debris

Debris like leaves, twigs, and branches can accumulate on the roof and damage it over time. It can also conceal areas of damage, clog the roof vents, and attract pests. Getting rid of roof debris regularly prevents this from happening, which can save money on repair bills in the future.

Debris can be removed with a blower, which speeds up the process and allows the roof to be inspected as you go. However, you must be comfortable working at heights and use the right equipment, such as a telescopic ladder if you’re removing heavy debris from the top of the roof. A broom or vacuum can also be used to remove lighter debris, though you’ll need to be careful not to scratch the surface.

A roof consists of several layers, including the underlayment, a waterproof membrane, and a vapor barrier or insulation. The flashing is the sheet metal installed at the joints and other points where the roof meets different parts of the structure. If these are damaged by water or a leak, it can cause serious problems for the building and its inhabitants.

Debris can also block the roof vents, causing them to overheat. This can reduce the energy efficiency of a building and increase the amount of electricity needed to cool it. It can also lead to the formation of mold or other toxic substances in the building.

Lastly, debris can block gutters and drainage systems, which can cause water to pool on the roof and damage or rot the structure. This is especially dangerous during adverse weather conditions.

Keeping the roof clear of debris is one of the best ways to protect it and avoid costly repair projects in the future. It’s important to inspect and clean the roof regularly, especially during spring and fall, to ensure it’s free of debris. A professional can help you do this, and may be able to check for other issues with your roof while they’re on site. Contact Bert Roofing today to get a quote for your roof repairs. Our local team will work with you to find a solution that fits your budget and schedule.

Damaged Flashing

The flashing of a roof is the thin material that secures joints in areas that tend to receive a lot of water, such as valleys, dormers, chimneys, and skylights. Unfortunately, flashing is not impervious to damage, and if left untreated, can lead to costly water intrusion. It’s therefore important to know the signs of roof flashing damage so you can seek prompt repair.

Corrosion or rust of the flashing is common, especially with older metal flashing. Cracks or gaps are another symptom of flashing damage. Also, if the flashing has been lifted or warped, this can indicate it’s time to replace it. If you notice water stains on your ceilings or walls, this is a clear indicator of leaks caused by damaged flashing. Water stains are often visible during rainfall, which means that the flashing is failing to seal properly around the feature in question.

Inspect your roof regularly for signs of flashing damage, and be sure to examine the surrounding area, as well. This can help you spot problems early and prevent more extensive damage to your roof deck, insulation, and interior.

Repairing flashing can be a fairly simple process. First, ensure that you’re working in a safe environment with the proper safety equipment (ladder, fall protection, sturdy work boots). Then, remove any debris, dirt, or old caulking from the affected area. You can then use roofing cement or caulk to fill in small holes and cracks, and smooth the surface with a putty knife for a clean, watertight finish. For more severe damage, you may need to replace sections of flashing.

For more extensive repairs, or for troublesome areas that are difficult to access, it’s advisable to hire a professional. A professional will be able to inspect your roof and the flashing in detail, ensuring that all of the necessary repairs are made. This will help to avoid water infiltration, which can cause mold growth, rot, and reduce your home’s energy efficiency. Additionally, water infiltration can deteriorate the rafters and other structural elements of your home, leading to expensive repairs down the line.

Roof Replacement

If your roof is leaking from a major area or you’ve lost a lot of shingles, it may be time to consider a replacement. Rather than patching the affected area, you’ll want to replace all of the shingles so you get a uniform look and the full benefit of newer materials.

Full replacement can be more expensive than repairs, but it resets the clock on the life of your roof and gives you the opportunity to upgrade to better roofing materials or solutions that address additional problems and concerns. For example, you could add ice and water shielding to prevent leaks around chimneys and other features or install a radiant barrier for energy efficiency.

A full replacement typically includes removing the old shingles and felt paper or moisture barrier, repairing any damage to the deck or sheathing and installing a new underlayment, if needed. You’ll also choose the material for your new roof, based on your needs and budget. For instance, you might decide to go with asphalt shingles again or upgrade to wood, concrete, or EPDM (a synthetic rubber that lasts longer than most traditional membranes).

If you opt for a full replacement, it’s important to work with your roofing contractor and be honest about the condition of your roof. This will help ensure that the warranty you’ll receive covers any underlying damage, as well as the cost of the new roof.

Once the project starts, it’s critical to follow all directions and keep an eye out for signs of workmanship issues or other concerns. You’ll want to work with your roofing contractor to resolve these quickly so you can enjoy a well-functioning, attractive home.

During the construction period, it’s also best to have kids and pets stay at a friend’s house or with a pet sitter while your roof is getting replaced. The noise, dust and vibrations can cause them stress, plus they could accidentally step on a nail or other debris in the process. If you must have them at home, prepare them by making sure they have a comfortable bed or crate near an exit and can access their favorite toys.