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If you are facing a roofing emergency, make sure you don’t make decisions in a hurry. You can handle everything correctly by taking some preliminary steps and following the tips we are going to share in this article.
At Helper Contracting LLC, we aim to help homeowners by sharing crucial information regarding their homes and the roofing industry. This article will explain how to get started and save money when you need emergency roof repair services.
So buckle up and be ready to protect your home in a cost-effective way!
How To Minimize Expenses in Case of a Roofing Emergency
If your roof is leaking or has been damaged by a storm, time is of the essence. And many times, homeowners don’t act quickly enough due to certain factors. Before you call anyone or sign a contract, there are some vital things to consider so you don’t overspend.
Here’s what you need to do:
#1 Turn Off the Power
This should be the first step if the damage seems significant. If there’s water dripping from the roof into an area with open wires, it’s not safe. If any electrical systems are in the area, such as power plugs, or an HVAC unit, turn off the power to avoid accidents and more damage from occurring. Keep the power off until professionals complete the emergency roof repairs.
#2 Beware of Storm Chasers
Summer is a busy month for roofing contractors as the warm and dry weather is perfect for roofing jobs, and many roofing materials also seal well during this time. So, it is essential to know that many reliable and experienced emergency roofers in your area may already be busy during the time of your emergency.
However, after a significant storm or extreme weather event, you may find roofers who come to your doorstep uninvited to offer their services. They may explain the damage they see and use scare tactics to get you to sign a contract without any proof of their documentation and work. These are storm chasers who may not be eligible for the job and may even cause more harm than good. For the most part, these contractors are not licensed or insured to perform roofing work in your area.
#3 Protect Your Belongings
Whether it’s a storm or an unexpected roof failure, you need to make sure everything and everyone is safe. If any water or debris is coming through the roof, protect your belongings by moving them to a safe, dry area. This includes electronics, furniture, and other valuables that could get damaged.
#4 Assess the Damage
If you are worried about the damage, you can note down some apparent signs of damage by the time the professionals arrive. This will help you give them a detailed overview of the problems and may also expedite your emergency roof repair procedure. Look for roof leaks in the attic, examine the rain gutters, and look at the shingles for any visible damage. In the case of an emergency, DIY roofing is never an option, so after you’ve taken all the above actions, it’s time to call the professionals.
#5 Understand What Issues are Considered Roofing Emergencies
Most roofing companies consider storm damage as an emergency and offer respective services. However, if there’s no storm and your roof has issues like a minor leak or warped shingles, it may not be categorized as an emergency since emergency services mean you must address the damage within a few hours.
#6 Clear the Area
If you feel you have an emergency issue, you should clear the area around where the repairs will be made. This includes any outdoor furniture, vehicles, or potted plants that may be in the way of falling roofing materials or contractors.
#7 Always Select a Licensed and Experienced Roofing Contractor
A licensed contractor has met the requirements of their state’s licensing board, which ensures they have the necessary training, knowledge, and experience to safely and effectively complete your emergency roof inspection and repair. To find the right company, ask for referrals, and check their ratings and reviews on Google, Better Business Bureau, and other relevant directories. You should also verify their credentials and ask if they offer a free consultation or estimate to be sure about their work before paying anything upfront.
#8 Understand Your Homeowners Insurance Policy
It’s essential to know which disasters are covered by homeowners insurance. Most policies cover roof damage caused by hailstorms and high winds but exclude floods and earthquakes. However, the coverage and terms of your policy can vary significantly depending on the insurer and the type of policy you have.
Therefore, it’s crucial to read and understand your homeowner’s insurance policy to determine the extent of coverage for emergency roof repairs. Some companies may have a specific deductible for roof damage, so you’ll have to pay a certain amount out of pocket before your insurance coverage pays for the rest.
Talk to your insurance adjustor to understand how you can get your claim approved. Your roofing contractor can also help to make the process smoother and quicker.
#9 What You Should Know About Emergency Roofers
Once you’ve chosen a reputable emergency roofing company, you can expect a professional and reliable service. Let’s understand what you can expect from your roofing contractor during an emergency roofing service.
Complete Roof Inspection
Professional roofing contractors will conduct a thorough inspection of your roof to determine the extent of the damage. This inspection should include an evaluation of your roof’s overall condition and identify any issues that may need to be addressed.
Documenting the Damage
During the inspection, experts will document any signs of damage using drone cameras and mobile phones. They will take photos and record videos explaining the issues to help with your insurance claim. This saves you a lot of time, money, and hassle. They will also determine if your home needs immediate roof tarping.
Roof Report
Based on their findings, the professionals will provide you with a detailed estimate of your emergency roof repair cost. If the damage is beyond repair, they will help you select new roofing materials required for replacements. This estimate should be comprehensive and include all the necessary repairs needed to fix the damage. It should also be transparent, with no hidden fees or surprises.
Roof Repairs
Once you’ve approved the estimate, the team will begin the repair process. Ideally, they will only use high-quality materials and adhere to all safety standards to ensure that the repair is done correctly and safely. While you can choose roofing materials based solely on your budget, this may not be a cost-effective approach.
#10 Choose the Right Roofing Materials
Many times, storm damage requires you to install new shingles as the old ones are missing or torn. If you live in a storm-prone area, it’s best to choose Class 4 shingles or a metal roof. Such weather-resistant materials can protect your roof better, minimizing the need for frequent or expensive repairs.
Additionally, Class 4 shingles and metal roofs are energy efficient and come with long-term manufacturer warranties and tax benefits. Overall, you can expect lower energy bills and a more comfortable living space with these types of materials. Most states also offer tax reductions to homeowners who use eco-friendly and energy-efficient materials.
#11 Know What Adds to the Cost of Your Emergency Roof Repairs
When you need emergency roofing services, it’s essential to understand what factors will contribute to the cost of repair. Some elements include the type and size of your roof, the extent of damage, and the season or day when repairs are taking place.
- If the repair is particularly complex, such as working on a steep or difficult-to-reach part of the roof, the cost may be higher.
- Roofing materials may be more expensive during the summer due to increased demand and limited supply in your area.
- You may also be charged extra for the service if you need emergency repairs outside regular business hours or on a holiday. This is also possible with companies offering 24-hour emergency roof repair services.
Finally, regarding summertime, emergency roofing costs may be higher than in other seasons. One factor that can contribute to inflated costs is the increased demand for roofing services. With more homeowners needing repairs, roofing contractors may need to charge higher prices to pay their professionals and manage their workload effectively.
If you need emergency roofing services in Pittsburgh or other areas in Pennsylvania, our experts are always here to help you.
Contact Your Area’s Trusted Emergency Roofing Specialists
At Hepler Contracting LLC, we’ve been helping homeowners since 2012. Our team has highly experienced and skilled professionals who have been restoring roofs for decades. If you are looking for a certified, reliable, and cost-effective team to perform emergency roof repairs, you can trust our experts any day.
From tarping your roof to giving a detailed estimate, our friendly team will be clear and transparent with you throughout the process. We understand the value of your investment and will go above and beyond to offer you a flawless emergency roofing service at a reasonable cost. Call us at (412) 694-8785 for a free consultation and roof inspection.
