Did you know that the average asphalt shingle roof lasts around 20 years? Regardless of whether your roof is asphalt, copper, metal, or wood, the odds are that you will need to make repairs at some point. 

Some common signs that you need roof repairs include leaking, sagging, missing shingles, and moss growth. If you don’t repair your roof when needed, you may experience water leaks, mold growth, and structural damage. 

What do you need to consider before your repair a roof? Keep reading to learn more about dealing with roof damage. 

1. Check for Leaks

One of the first steps to repairing your roof is understanding the extent of the damage. The biggest sign that you need roof repairs is water leaks. If you have an attic, start by inspecting it. 

To check your attic for leaks, turn the lights off on a sunny day. If you see sunlight shining into your attic, that is a sign that your roof is leaking. You also may notice water damage or a musty smell. 

When it is raining outside, you can go into your attic to search for a leak. If you see or hear water, that is a sign you need roof repairs. If it’s not raining, you can ask a friend to use a water hose to mimic rain. 

2. Check the Vents and Flashing

In addition to checking your attic for water leaks, you should also check your roof vents and flashing. While roof vents are essential to extend the life of your roof, they are one of the most common causes of leaks. 

Roof vents often have flashing around them to prevent water from getting in. Over time, the flashing can break down, resulting in holes and cracks.

To prevent your flashing from leaking, you should do regular roof maintenance or hire a roofing company to do it for you. To maintain your flashing, make sure it isn’t loose, fill in holes, and re-caulk it. 

3. Wear Rubber Shoes

Anytime you check your roof for damages or make repairs, you should wear shoes with rubber soles. Not only will these shoes protect your roof, but they also can prevent dangerous slips and falls. 

According to OSHA, falling is the main cause of death in the construction industry. Wearing shoes with rubber soles will allow your feet to grip the roof, decreasing your chance of falling. 

You also should wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. If possible, avoid going on your roof alone. 

4. Check for Storm Damage

One of the biggest causes of roof damage is severe weather. Hurricanes, tornadoes, and thunderstorms can rip shingles off your roof and cause water to pool. 

Snowstorms can cause roof sagging, damaging the structure of your roof.  Large hail can break your shingles. If you believe your damaged roof was caused by a storm, you should start by contacting your insurance company. 

Your insurance company may send an agent to inspect the roof, ask you to send pictures, or have a roofing company check for damages. If your roof damage happened during a storm, your insurance company could pay for the roof repairs or replacement. 

5. Consider Hiring Professionals

While you can do small roof repairs yourself, it is best to hire professionals. If you do a bad job fixing your roof, you are likely to waste time, spend extra money, cause roof leaks, and create a pest problem. 

Not only is doing repairs yourself bad for your roof, but it’s also dangerous. A roof repair company knows how to navigate roofs safely so you don’t have to. 

6. Choose the Right Contractor

Before repairing a roof, make sure you take the time to research contractors. Choosing the wrong contractor can waste money, damage your roof further, and cause stress. 

The roofing company you hire should have experience, a good reputation, and references. Before choosing a company, make sure you read reviews on their website, social media pages, and review websites. 

The roofing company you choose should also have a license if your state requires it. Even if your state doesn’t, having a license shows that the company is professional and qualified. 

In addition to a license, the roofing company you hire should have insurance. Business insurance will protect you if the company damages your house or someone gets hurt on your property. 

7. Ask About Permits

Did you know that you may need permits to repair your roof? If your roof repairs exceed certain square footage or price, you may need a permit. You also might need one if the repairs affect the structural part of your roof. 

To find out if you need a permit, check with your state and city before starting. Your roofing company can also help you determine if you need to obtain a permit. 

8. Know When to Replace Your Roof

Before you repair your roof, you need to consider the difference between roof repairs and roof replacement. Making roof repairs is ideal if there is only mild or moderate damage. 

You should repair your roof if you have a few missing shingles, a small leak, or damaged flashing. If your roof was damaged during a storm or if a small tree fell on your roof, repairs are a good option. 

If your roof is old, sagging, and falling apart, replacing your roof may be a better option. Replacing a roof is more expensive, but it can save you money in the future. 

If you continue to repair a roof that needs replacing, you are only delaying the inevitable. You also are putting the rest of your house at risk of water damage, mold growth, and pest issues. 

Are You Ready to Repair a Roof?

Repairing your roof is a good option if your roof is leaking, missing some shingles, or has storm damage. Before you repair a roof, you should check for leaks, consider hiring professionals, and know when to replace your roof. 

Are you ready to choose a roof repair company to fix your roof? If so, check out our roofing services to get started today.