You’ve most likely heard the saying, “home sweet home”, and for many their home is one of the sweetest places to be.
But who can keep away from the unpredictability of Mother Nature? When the weather gets bad in Ohio, it can badly damage your property, your roof being the primary recipient of this damage.
This is when you need to act fast and take immediate steps to safeguard your home till you can get professional help.
Since our team has been working in Ohio for quite some time, we know that the storm season is around the corner, and this is when you need to be on your toes. Here we will talk about some of the things you need to do when you face an emergency situation.
So keep in mind the following things.
#1 Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
We understand that it can be hard to keep your cool when your roof suffers severe weather damage, but panic will not help you solve the issue at hand. The first step in any emergency is to stay calm. A sense of calmness will help you handle the situation more effectively and help you in making better decisions.
Next, assess the situation carefully to understand the extent of the roof damage. Look for the following signs to get an idea of what you’re dealing with:
Interior Signs Of Damage
Look for these signs that tell you might need emergency roof repairs.
Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls
Check your ceilings and walls for water stains or discoloration, especially in the attic and top floors. Water stains are a clear indicator of roof leaks.
Peeling or Bubbling Paint
Moisture seeping through the roof can cause paint on the walls or ceilings to peel or bubble.
Damp or Musty Odors
Pay attention to any unusual smells, such as dampness or mustiness, which may indicate water intrusion.
Exterior Signs Of Damage
After you’ve waited for the storm or severe weather to pass, check the exterior of your home for the following signs of damage:
Missing or Damaged Shingles
Inspect your roof from the ground level or use binoculars to check for any missing, cracked, or curled shingles. Damaged shingles can leave your roof vulnerable to leaks and water infiltration.
Damaged Flashing
Check the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Damaged or loose flashing can create openings for water to enter and lead to leaks.
Clogged Gutters
Observe your gutters for an accumulation of granules from asphalt shingles. Excessive granules in the gutters could be a sign of aging shingles and potential roof issues.
If you notice debris clogging your gutters, remove it, and ensure that it didn’t cause any structural damage to the gutters, or that it didn’t harm the siding and foundation around your home.
Identifying these problems accurately will help you communicate the issue more effectively when seeking professional assistance from a roofing contractor in Ohio.
Make Temporary Fixes
If you notice that your roof is rapidly deteriorating and water has already made its way inside your property, then there is no time to wait for someone to come and you need to start making minor fixes immediately.
Before attempting any DIY roof repairs, prioritize safety.
- Don’t attempt repairs in hazardous weather conditions, such as heavy rain, strong winds, or lightning. Your safety and well-being are paramount.
- Make sure you wear protective gear before you embark on fixing any damage.
- If there’s severe damage or the roof’s structural integrity is compromised, it’s best to evacuate your home and call a professional.
Move Your Valuables Away
The first thing you need to do when the damage has started to affect your interior is to move your valuables away from the affected areas.
- Move things like furniture away from leak-prone areas. Place a bucket where the water is dripping.
- Unplug electronics and move them to a dry area to prevent electrical hazards and potential malfunctions.
- If you cannot move large furniture or items, consider using protective coverings such as plastic sheets or tarps to shield them from water damage.
Roof Tarping
One effective short-term solution is to cover the leaks with waterproof tarpaulins, commonly known as roof tarps. If you do not currently have them at your home, it’s best to purchase some as they can be pretty handy during tough weather conditions.
Use Roofing Cement
Another short-term fix for emergency roof repairs involves using roofing cement to seal cracks and gaps. Roofing cement is a waterproof adhesive that can temporarily prevent water from seeping through damaged areas.
Contact a Reputable Roofing Contractor
Though temporary home roof repairs can be the saving grace during tough times, these are not permanent solutions. This is why once you’ve temporarily stabilized the situation, it’s time to call in the experts.
How To Find The Right Roofing Contractor
Research and contact a reputable roofing contractor with experience in emergency repairs. Look for companies with positive customer reviews, proper certifications, and insurance coverage. A professional roofer will conduct a thorough inspection and provide a detailed assessment of the required repairs.
To make your work easier, we have already created a list of the best, licensed, and BBB-accredited roofing contractors serving in Bellbrook, and the surrounding areas of Ohio.
Document The Damage
While waiting for the roofing contractor, document the damage for insurance purposes. Take clear photographs and videos of the affected areas. Proper documentation will facilitate the insurance claim process and ensure you get the coverage you deserve.
While you take pictures, use a high-resolution camera or smartphone with good image quality to capture clear and detailed photos. Take pictures from multiple angles to give a comprehensive view of the affected areas.
Here are a few reasons why documentation is an important part of emergency roof repair:
Clear Communication With The Insurance Company: Insurance companies rely on clear and detailed evidence to process claims efficiently.
Establishing The Extent of Damage: Photographs and videos capture the full scope of the roof damage, even areas that might not be immediately visible.
Evidence For Future Reference: Proper documentation serves as a reference point throughout the claims process.
Other Things To Consider
Now that we have covered the basics of what to look for and do in an emergency, you will now be able to take better care of your property when harsh weather hits. However, there are some other things to consider too:
Beware of Roofing Scams
In emergency situations, scammers may take advantage of vulnerable homeowners. These scammers start to come around during storm season and are also known as storm chasers.
Be cautious of individuals who show up uninvited, claim to be roofing experts, and offer quick and cheap fixes. These roofers will offer to inspect your roof and then tell you about a range of things that are wrong with your system.
Always verify the credentials of any service provider before allowing them to work on your roof.
Consider Your Insurance Coverage
A home is your biggest investment, and therefore you must protect your biggest asset with homeowners insurance. But sadly, many homeowners do not find it as essential.
We have met several distraught homeowners who either have no insurance, or have it but do not know anything about it.
To avoid making this mistake, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand how it covers roof repairs. Some policies may cover all types of damage, while others may exclude certain incidents. Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of your personal plan to avoid surprises during the claims process.
Importance Of Regular Roof Maintenance: The Key To Success
After the emergency roof repair, prioritize regular roof maintenance.
Regular roof inspections are a proactive measure that can significantly extend the lifespan of your roof and help prevent potential emergencies. As a company with years of experience, we suggest you schedule a professional roof inspection at least once a year, preferably in the spring or fall.
A certified roofing contractor can thoroughly assess the condition of your roof, identify any early signs of wear and tear, and perform necessary maintenance to keep your roof in top-notch shape.
Yes, at first, investing in regular inspections and timely repairs may seem like an added expense, but understand that it can save you a substantial amount of money in the long run. Neglected roof problems can lead to extensive damage, requiring expensive repairs or even a complete roof replacement.
Meet Your Trusted Emergency Roof Repair Specialists
Acting fast during an emergency is crucial to safeguarding your home. We certainly do not want you to be in such a situation, but if your home does suffer roof damage, call our team at All Around Roofing, Siding & Gutters for emergency roof repairs.
We are a premier roofing company serving Springfield, Dayton, and the surrounding areas of Ohio. We offer 24/7 storm damage roof repair services so that you will not have to wait till morning for a contractor to arrive. Contact us today at (937) 902-2839 to learn more.
