How to Tell if you Need a Roof Replacement
Sometimes it is hard to tell if you need a whole roof replacement or just a roof repair. A roof replacement can be expensive at the beginning, but an old or damaged roof can cost you a lot in energy efficiency in the long run. Leaks in your roof can cost you in increased energy bills and in home roofing repairs. Nickerson Roofing has prepared the following guide on how to know if you need a roof replacement or if a roof repair is sufficient for now.
Interior Inspection
Certain problems in the interior of your home can be a good sign as to whether you need a Truckee home roof replacement or a smaller scope repair. For example, if you see dark water stains dripping down walls from the ceiling or swelling of walls or doorways, then you should call a roofing specialist like Nickerson Roofing right away! If you do not see any obvious signs in the living space of your home, it is still a good idea to check the attic just in case. Check your attic in the daytime or use a flash light if your attic does not have a good source of light. If it is not a finished attic, be very careful when walking around or you may find yourself having to repair a hole in your ceiling! The first thing you should look for is sunlight shining through gaps in the roof. Also check for any signs of dark spots or moisture on the attic wood and insulation. Look for bowing in the roof and any other obvious damage. Finally, if you see or smell any signs of a nuisance animal in your attic, it’s probable that the wild animal entered your attic through a damaged portion of your roof. Remember, even if you do not see any interior damage, you will still need to check your roof exterior to be sure there isn’t a roofing problem.
Exterior Roof Inspection
The most important thing about checking the exterior of your roof for damage is making sure you are safe. Be sure to use the proper ladder and have another person standing by to hold the ladder when you climb up. Do not ever climb onto the roof as you can do more damage than good! It is best to leave walking the roof to roofing professionals like Nickerson Roofing. But how can you check the entirety of your roof without climbing on it? We suggest that you move and reset your ladder on each side of your house to make sure you check the roof in its entirety. So what exactly are you looking for? If you have a composite shingle or shake roof, the first thing you should look for is torn, broken or warped shingles or shakes. If a tile roof is what you have, make sure all the tiles are still there, as if they are not properly fastened they will blow off! Make sure they haven’t slipped off, cracked or that pieces haven’t broken away. If you have a metal roof, check that the rubber washers around screws are intact and if you happen to have a rubber roof, check that there are no rips in the rubber membrane caused by protrusions from tree branches etc. But no matter what type of roof you have, also check for loose material around the fixtures on your roof like your chimney and vents. Check seals and seams while looking for any signs of water damage, sagging or rot. Finally, while you up on the ladder, check the condition of your gutters. Look to see they are well attached. If they are full of debris, know that this can lead to water dripping down the side of your house and leaking inside! Call Nickerson Roofing for a gutter inspection and cleaning. We will make sure your gutters are securely attached and clear of leaves and any other harmful debris.
Roof Repair, Replacement & More in Truckee, Mystic, Tahoe City, Kings Beach & The North Lake Tahoe Basin of California
As one of the most experienced roofing professionals in Truckee, California, our roofing experts know how to identify both major and minor roofing problems. Whether you just do not have the time, expertise or knowledge to conduct a thorough roofing inspection yourself or even if you have done a quick roofing inspection and just want a second opinion, Nickerson Roofing is the company to call in the Truckee area. We can offer you the most affordable and effective roofing solutions and complete the job quickly! Contact us today for a free estimate.
