Many people suffering with roof damage or problems have attempted to save money by covering the old roof with a new layer. While this may be a quick and cheaper option, it certainly isn’t the best option for everyone. Here is why:

Hidden Problems

Covering an existing roof with new roof materials is acceptable if the old roof is not damaged. When you cover an old roof with a new layer of roof materials without removing the old or damaged ones, you are essentially creating a “band-aid fix”. Stripping the old materials away allows for the roofer to inspect the entire roof structure for any further damage, giving them a chance to identify additional problems.

Encouraging Decay

Layering roof materials also increases the risk of mold, mildew, rot and decaying of materials. Any moisture, debris or pest waste is likely to fester under the new roof materials and cause damage. Moisture problems can be costly and are likely to only worsen with additional weight of new materials.

Warranty and Code Violations

There are rules and regulations that are enforced with roof materials. To meet fire and safety codes, materials must meet strict requirements and be installed properly. Adding too many layers of roof materials can be a code violation, and even increase the risk of fire or other dangers. Further, adding layers over an existing roof could void the warranty on the materials used in all of the layers, leaving little recourse with insurance companies when filing a claim down the road.

Many people are injured each year due to roof debris, roof collapse and even fires starting among roof materials. Roof contractors are especially vulnerable to rooftop dangers, as they are on the front lines of risk when it comes to roof repair and replacement. Homeowners and roofers should both be vigilant when it comes to the threats a poorly maintained roof can pose.

Staying Safe

There are laws in place to help protect us from certain rooftop dangers like fire and structural collapse. Roofing codes are put into place to ensure that roof materials meet certain standards of fire resistance, strength and durability. Materials that fall below code could pose an imminent threat to the homeowner, or anyone living or working under this type of roof. Therefore it is important to do the following:

• Keep the roof clear of debris and pests.
• Regularly inspect the roof for signs of damage or weakness, at least once per season.
• Replace or repair any damaged, missing or weak roof materials.
• Have a professional roofer conduct an inspection following any major weather events, or prior to purchasing a house.
• Stay away from buildings that have sagging rooflines or obvious signs of damage.

If you have an old or damaged roof you may not be worried about having it replaced if there haven’t been any signs of danger. However, even minor roof damage can quickly lead to bigger, and more costly, problems.

Not Just Money

Not only is a damaged roof more costly in terms of roof repair, but it can be dangerous as well. A roof isn’t just a protective covering of a building, but also one of the main supporting structures. If roof damage compromises the structural integrity of the roof, injury and death could result.

Roof collapse is most often a product of weak support beams, excessive weight or substandard roof materials. If the support beams get damaged, the roof covering will not be able to bear weight or even hold up over time. Water damage and pests, like termites, are two common culprits of weakened support beams. Excessive weight on a roof is most common in climates with a lot of snow. Not all roof materials are made to withstand the additional weight of snow on the roof, which is why choosing the right roof material is important. Further, if the roof materials installed on the building are of poor quality or violate code, even a new roof could be subject to roof collapse or other damage.

It is important that homeowners and building supervisors ensure that their roof is maintained properly and inspected routinely for problems. Catching a minor problem early could potentially save lives.

Hail can be a destructive weather element when it arrives in the severe weather season. Breaking windows, denting cars and causing significant roof damage, a hail storm can be a costly experience. Although most people do check their roof for damage after a storm, there are a few things people should know about roof repair after a hail storm.

Dents and Dings

A hail storm can do more damage than is visible to the naked eye. Although there may be some evidence of missing or damaged shingles, the underlying materials may also be damaged. Damaged underlayment can cause serious problems during the next rain storm or even when the summer temperatures being to rise. If the underlying materials get damaged there can be gaps, cracks or weak spots in the roof structure. These problems allow for water to get into the home and the heat can make a small crack a large one in no time.

Dents and dings may be visible, but not all roof damage is as obvious.  A good rule of thumb is to have a roof contractor evaluate the roof after a storm can save hundreds down the road in avoidable repairs. A roof inspection can also ensure that any damages related to the storm are covered by the insurance company, who often require the damaged be determined to be caused by the storm. Having a quote or inspection report of any damage immediately following the storm can be a valuable tool when filing an insurance claim.

Roof repair and replacement can be expensive. As a homeowner it is one of the most important aspects of maintaining the integrity of your home. Unfortunately, it isn’t uncommon for homeowners to have their repair claims denied by their insurance company. Insurance policies are different for every homeowner and what is, and is not, covered can vary greatly.

Coverage For Damages

In general, you can rest assured that the insurance company will pay for repairs if the roof damage was related to natural disasters or acts of God. These include significant weather events such as wind, hail, rain, hurricanes and tornadoes. The most common type of damage covered is damage or removal of shingles, flashing and siding. If the damage done to the roof causes further damage to the home by way to water leak and damage, this may also be covered by the insurance company.

One important aspect to remember about your damage claim is that it must be determined that the damage occurred due to an unknown and unpreventable reason. This can become problematic if the insurance company feels there was any neglect or failure to properly maintain the roof prior to the damage. In other words, if the insurance company determines that you failed to keep the roof in good repair prior to the damage, your claim could be denied.

Knowing Your Policy

Your insurance policy has specific terms and conditions for what type(s) of damages are covered but also how these damages may be disqualified. Not only will your policy discuss the terms of your coverage but will also outline any limits or restrictions to the coverage listed. It is a good idea to thoroughly review your policy prior to any major weather event. You may find that you need to hire a local roofer to inspect the integrity of your roof before the weather event, which can help demonstrate the roof was properly  maintained prior to the damage.