Guide To Home Improvement - Damaged Roofs: What Are Your Options?

Now that the heavy storm has passed, you need to check your roof for damage. Have you lost shingles or metal panels, or are there roof tiles on your lawn? Are there tell-tale signs of leaks or stains on your walls and ceiling? Following heavy hail, are your shingles pitted or thinned in places? Is there debris in your gutters? It may be time to call in a roofing contractor to inspect the damage. Determining whether you have reparable damage or need an entire new roof can make a significant difference in costs and heartache.

Remember that many roofing contractors send out damage estimators with an eye toward securing a contract for an entire roof replacement. That's why you may want to call in several roofing contractors for estimates. Most well-designed and installed roofs offer several decades of solid protection from the elements. However none are guaranteed to handle the ferocity of some of nature's worst storms.

If you've added a second layer of roofing over the years, you should be aware that a second layer has a shorter lifespan. If you discover patches of missing tiles or mold and rot in sections following a series of storms, it may be time to devote your resources to repairs or replacement.

Deciding on a Roofing Company
Examine your home insurance to see whether you have coverage for roof damage; it may influence your decision whether to repair or replace your roof. To evaluate contractors, get plenty of written estimates. Ask friends, neighbors, or family members if they know a reputable contractor. Evaluate each roofing company for fit with your needs.

Are they licensed, bonded, and insured? Will they provide references? Visit or call your local contractor's association, business bureau, or state licensing agency to evaluate your potential contractor's claims.

Sources
Bob Villa, Protecting Your Roof

InspectApedia, How to Choose a Contractor - 5 Easy Steps to Getting Good Roofing Work, by Jessie Srader

Roof Help, Emergency Roof Repairs

About the Author
Gabby Hyman has created online strategies and written content for Fortune 500 companies including eToys, GoTo.com, Siebel Systems, Microsoft Encarta, Avaya, and Nissan UK.