Have you ever wondered what you would do if the roof of your house collapsed due to a leak or lack of maintenance?
What should you do first? Who should you call for immediate help?
Below, discover our guide on how to deal with a roof emergency, including when to contact the most roofers who will come to your aid and fix the problem in a worst-case scenario.
What Is a Roofing Emergency?
A roofing emergency usually occurs after neglecting minor roof problems for an extended period of time. A compromised roof cannot withstand inclement weather like a sound roof can. Without regular inspections and maintenance, homeowners can not foresee potential roof emergencies before they occur. Ultimately, procrastination will result in unnecessary additional damage.
Emergency Roof Repair
A sudden case of bad weather that causes a roof to give way represents the last thing anyone would want to encounter. For one, it would cause serious concern for the welfare of all inhabitants. Secondly, all household belongings become exposed to the elements. In such a situation, your roof will require immediate emergency roofing repair.
Some of the issues that can cause a roof emergency include:
- Poor installation
- Fallen trees
- High winds
- Wear and tear
- Stagnant water
- Excessive debris
- Broken tiles
- Roof leakage
- Damaged flashing
- Advanced aging
What to Do When Experiencing an Emergency Roof Problem?
When experiencing an emergency roof problem, it becomes important to maintain presence of mind. The situation at hand can prove challenging and emotional. Below, you can find some guidance on what to do during a roof emergency.
Check on Yourself and Your Family
The safety of yourself and your family remains your first priority. A significant roof problem almost always requires an emergency roof repair. In such a scenario, you need to keep your family safe from falling debris, exposed electrical sources, rain, and other hazards.
Investigate the Cause
If the situation allows, evaluate the cause of the roof damage and take a quick-fix approach by covering the area with a waterproof, plastic tarp. A tarp serves as a temporary solution until you receive emergency roof repair services. If the damage presents a danger, then avoid any contact with the affected area.
Document the Premises
To file an insurance claim, you need to provide proof of damage. Take photographs and videos so you can deliver evidence to the insurance company and receive coverage for the devastation. Documentation becomes even more crucial if you have to leave your home due to extreme structural harm.
Storm Chasers
Beware of storm chasers who approach you and propose to inspect and repair your roof immediately after a storm. If you engage them, you can expect shoddy workmanship with no warranty or insurance. Due to the trauma of roof damage, vulnerable homeowners often give in to such treacherous propositions and pay large amounts of money for a quick solution.
Safety Measures
It remains advisable not to venture onto the roof to take care of the damage. Unable to measure the extent of the destruction, you could exacerbate the problem due to excess weight and even cause harm to yourself. Even though emergency roof repair personnel might take time to arrive, you should always wait for the professionals before climbing onto your roof.
Presence of Mind
Roofing damage may seem overwhelming at first. However, it will serve you best to maintain a calm, controlled demeanor so you can respond to the situation in the best way possible. Keeping your presence of mind will allow you to use your resources wisely and make it through a brief rough patch.
Who to Call?
During a roofing emergency, you should immediately call a licensed and insured roofing contractor. An experienced and highly skilled roofer will inspect your property, make a diagnosis, and immediately get to work. Your roofing contractor will advise you regarding the need for a new installation, repair, or replacement, based on the extent of the damage.
An emergency roof repair from a professional roofing contractor allows you to maintain peace of mind because your home remains in the hands of knowledgeable roofers who can save you time and money.
Prevention
In order to prevent any recurrence of roof damage that would require an emergency roof repair, regular maintenance and routine inspections from a reputable roofing contractor remains highly recommended. Attending to minor problems when they need your attention will save you a great deal of trouble in the future.
