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How do you prove storm damage to your roof?

The first thing to do if you think your roof’s been damaged in a storm is to get a roof inspection by a reputable roofer like AC ROOFING AND SIDING. Trained professionals know what to look for such as missing shingles or dents from hail or even hard-to-spot issues like broken adhesive seals.

When you have your roof inspected by a professional, you’ll have the documentation needed to file an accurate claim with your insurer. You can also get help from the roofer when the insurance company sends out an adjuster to examine the damage in your claim. The roofer can even verify the damage with the adjuster. This will ensure you get the needed compensation to pay for repairs.

Documentation is key to proving your roof has storm damage. Along with an inspection, make sure to take photographs of the damaged area of your roof. The more documentation you have the better.

Does insurance cover roof damage from a storm?

Typically, your homeowner’s insurance will cover roof storm damage because this damage is not under your control. Most policies will cover damage from:

• Wind
• Hail
• Fallen objects like tree limbs
• Damage to the home’s interior resulting from roof damage

If, for instance, winds blow shingles off the roof creating a leak that damages an interior wall, your insurance will probably cover both the damage to the roof and the damage to the interior wall.

Storms are considered covered perils because the damage done was unexpected and out of your control. However, if you have a roof leak and your insurer determines that the leak was caused by poor upkeep, then the repair will not be covered.

Hail damage will usually be covered but the coverage may vary depending on your location and the frequency with which hailstorms occur in your area.

What are the signs of roof damage?

Roof storm damage can vary. If you want to find out whether or not your roof has been damaged, you want to start by looking at the roof itself. Signs of damage include:

• Missing or loose shingles
• Dents or cracks in the roofing material
• Roof bulges
• Clogged gutters and downspouts

If you see any damage, it is important to have it repaired as soon as possible, especially if there are any leaks present. Leaks are a common type of roof storm damage, so even if you don’t see any obvious issues, be aware of signs of a leaking roof such as water stains on your ceiling or along the tops of your walls. Leaks that are left unchecked can lead to costly repairs later on and severe problems like interior water damage, mold and mildew growth, or even rot.

At what wind speeds do roofs come off?

Depending on what type of roof you have, it can tolerate varying wind speeds before damage occurs. Most standard shingle roofs, for instance, can tolerate winds up to 60 mph before the roof falls into the danger zone. There are impact-resistant shingles designed specifically to withstand higher winds and impacts from hail. These shingles are very valuable in areas in which severe weather is frequent. The age of the roof and if it’s suffered previous damage will also affect its ability to withstand high winds.

Metal roofs are much more effective at combatting high winds. Metal roofing can withstand wind speeds of up to 140 mph.

One windstorm might not affect your roof. But wear over time, even by slower or weaker winds, can lead to serious problems. Shingles can get lifted up even in weak winds which can leave your roof susceptible to water damage and leaks.

Unless you spot missing or broken shingles, wind damage isn’t always easy detect. Adhesive seals can be broken which leaves the roof vulnerable to leaks. This type of roof storm damage could go unnoticed without the help of a professional. This is why we recommend you get your roof inspected following severe storms, especially those involving high winds or hail.

What is the average lifespan for a roof?

While there is no simple answer to how long your roof will last, the average lifespan of asphalt shingle roofing is 15 to 30 years depending on the type of shingles used. Standard 3-tab shingles, for instance, can last anywhere between 15 to 25 years, though 30 years is not unheard of. Architectural or composite shingles typically survive about 30 years before a full roof replacement is needed.

One of the longest-lasting roofing materials available is metal roofing, which can last 50 years or more. Tile roofing also lasts 50 or more years. Slate roofs can last for centuries but are often very heavy and expensive to install.

How do I know it’s time to replace my roof?

Age plays the biggest role when determining its time to replace your roof. Once your roof hits between 20 to 30 years of age, you should look into getting a roof replacement. It’s at this time most roofs begin showing their wear and tear, no matter how well-maintained they’ve been. It’s also likely you’ve been spending money a little more often on minor repairs. Here are some other signs it’s time to replace your roof:

• Recurring leaks: Constant leaks are big problems that add up in repair costs. A new roof will save money.
• Sagging: Sagging or drooping roofs often indicate structural damage. Collapse is a risk.
• Granules in the gutters: An excessive number of granules from your shingles in the gutters indicates the shingles are beginning to break down and it won’t be long before they no longer provide protection.
• Water stains on the ceilings or walls of the home: Water stains on the ceilings or walls mean roof leaks and often costly repairs for both the roof and the water damage on the interior of your home.

Why is roof replacement important?

A roof that is in good condition preserves the health and safety of your home, protecting your home and you from the elements. If your roof is in disrepair or has multiple leaks or other problems you risk water damage and even structural damage that’s going to cost you money and time. A new roof saves both money and time for you and your family.

Roof replacement is an important investment in the long-term health and safety of your home. New roofs guard your home against weather damage, pests, and leaks (leaks are usually the worst problem a roof can have because they lead to issues like water damage, mold and mildew, and rot). When you have AC ROOFING AND SIDING install a new roof using GAF products, you’ll have a durable, long-lasting and energy-efficient roof that will save you money on repair costs and utility bills.

Is your roof leaking? Are there shingles missing or broken? Contact a roofing contractor immediately for a consultation. A qualified contractor will inspect your roof and help you determine if it’s time to replace your roof.

What should I expect with roof replacement?

Once you’ve contacted a contractor, they’ll schedule you for an assessment in which they’ll determine the scope of the work involved. They’ll take measurements and inspect the roof and then provide you with an estimate of costs as well as a timeframe in which work will be completed. If you agree with their proposal and sign the dotted line, they’ll begin working.

The actual process of replacing a roof begins with a tear-off of the old roof down to the roof deck. The tear-off will be messy, so make sure your property and your family are protected from debris. Afterward, the contractor inspects the roof deck to make sure it’s in good enough condition to support the new roof. Next, the underlayment is installed. This material protects the roof deck and provides waterproofing. Finally, the new roofing material will then be installed. Roofers typically start at the eaves and work their way up the roof.

After all the new roofing has been installed, the contractor performs finishing touches such as gutter installation or installing chimney flashing.

One thing to remember: a full roof replacement can take several days to complete. This means you’ll need to prepare for some disruption to your everyday home life. Of course, AC ROOFING AND SIDING knows when we install a new roof, the disruption will be worth it. That’s because you’ll have a brand new roof protecting your home for many years to come.

Can you replace just a few pieces of siding?

How extensive a siding replacement is depends on the extent of the damage. If, for instance, your child’s stray baseball hits the side of your home and cracks the siding, it’s feasible simply to just replace that one board rather than replacing all the siding on that part of the house.

It’s even feasible to just replace a whole section of siding rather than replacing all the siding on your home. If you are unsure about either of these projects, get in touch with a professional contractor.

Is it better to paint or replace vinyl siding?

Vinyl siding tends to fade over time and the fading can affect your home’s appearance. A quick fix to improve the siding’s appearance is to paint it. However, painting siding is just a short-term fix. Eventually, it will need to be replaced.

How do you know when siding is bad?

Because siding protects your home against the elements it’s important to identify any damage to your siding and take care of it right away before the problem gets worse. Here are some things to watch out for:

• Cracked or warped siding: Cracked or warped siding can allow water to enter your home’s interior, damaging walls, ceilings and other structures and property.
• Missing siding: Missing siding leaves your home vulnerable to the elements and puts your home’s interior at risk of damage.
• Peeling paint: Peeling paint is a sign that the siding is not properly sealed, which can lead to water damage and other issues inside your home.
• Discoloration: Siding that is starting to discolor may signify sun or weather damage. Problems like warping or cracking could result.
• Blisters or bubbles on your siding: Blisters or bubbles can indicate water damage underneath the siding which can further intrude inside the home.
• Severe fading: While siding fades over time, severe fading may signify damage.
• Mold or mildew: Mold or mildew on your siding is a clear sign of water damage.

Take action right away if you see any of these problems. Left unchecked, siding damage can lead to bigger and more expensive problems down the road. Check with our team for siding replacement or repair options.

How long is siding supposed to last?

The average lifespan of siding can vary depending on the material used. On average, you can expect most types of siding to last at least 20 years. High-quality fiber cement from James Hardie can last up to 50 years or more. James Hardie offers a 30-year transferrable warranty on most of their products.

Vinyl siding is good for several decades and wood siding like cedar can last up to 40 years or more when it’s maintained well.

Proper maintenance is the key to siding’s longevity. Keeping it clean and having it inspected regularly will prevent your siding from quickly deteriorating. Many manufacturers like James Hardie recommend yearly inspections in order to uphold warranties. A professional inspection will help you detect problems like cracking and warping.

What are the different types of siding?

If you are planning on a siding replacement anytime soon, you’ll want to find out what kinds of siding are out there and what will be best for your home.

Here are some of the most common types of siding you’ll find on the market today:

• Vinyl siding: Made from PVC plastic, vinyl siding is a popular choice because it’s relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
• Wood siding: Not as common now as it once was, wood siding can be either solid wood or engineered wood, and it offers a classic look. Wood siding does require more maintenance than some of the other options. It is also more susceptible to damage from the elements.
• Brick and stone siding: These options offer a classic look. Both are very durable, but they can be expensive and difficult to install.
• Fiber cement siding: This siding is made from a mix of wood fibers and cement, and it offers the best of both worlds in terms of durability and appearance. AC ROOFING AND SIDING is a James Hardie Elite Preferred siding contractor. We often recommend this siding not only because it is durable and long-lasting, but also because the manufacturer offers such exceptional warranty service. It also fits with most types of homes.