by Brad | Feb 21, 2023 | Roofing Tips
by Brad | Feb 21, 2023 | Roofing Tips
The following hail damage roof inspection checklist can assist Texas residents in evaluating the state of their roof and taking the required steps to speed up repairs in the case of a severe storm.
Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR is aware of the psychological and financial strain that extreme weather disasters cause. If your property has suffered storm damage, we suggest you contact your local roofing contractor to arrange a free roof inspection to assess how well your roof is holding up and if you should contact your insurance adjuster.
We will be able to provide a thorough visual inspection photo report explaining all damage or issues detected during the inspection. Our qualified project manager will accurately determine the necessary repairs to restore your property to its original condition.
Make sure you arrange an inspection with a professional roofing contractor as soon as possible if you notice any of these problems. These signs of damage can vary in difficulty for the untrained eye to see, with others requiring an expert’s eye.
How Do You Inspect a Roof for Damage?
Downspouts, Gutters, and Gutter Screens
Look at your gutters, downspouts, and gutter screens from the ground with an eye for any dents. In situations where the hail severely damages the roof, it is common for the gutters to sustain at least some impact damage. Keep an eye out because dents can vary in size.
Sliding and Windowsills
Next, examine the siding and window sills or casings. Again, if the roof has been seriously damaged, these areas of your home will probably have some damage.
Be sure to pay close attention to any exposed metal, such as the metal fascia on your roof eaves, while you inspect these home components from the ground. Every ding, no matter how small, can suggest the roof was probably damaged.
Air Conditioner and Outdoor Items
Your air conditioners or other devices outside your home are among the few things you can see damage from the ground.
Once again, if the hail storm was solid and big enough to harm your air conditioner or other items, it was probably also strong enough to cause damage to your roof. If you notice the hail damage immediately, you can file an insurance claim with your insurance company for the air conditioner.
Outdoor Painted Surfaces
Last but not least, inspect the entire surfaces outdoors, especially those painted or treated in some way. Paint that has chipped may have been damaged by hail, but it may also mean something else.
Identifying Hail Damage to Asphalt Shingles
The roof’s shingles will be the most crucial aspect of any roof damage inspection. Although it varies depending on the damage and your policy, you have a far better chance of filing an insurance claim with most insurance companies if the shingles are damaged.
Unfortunately for those without experience, some hail damage to shingles is apparent, but that is not always true. You might need to get pretty close to the shingles to see the damage.
Surface Granules
As you examine the shingles, look at the surface granules. Some of these are going to get damaged by hail. The shingles’ integrity was likely compromised if your roof was exposed to high force. Furthermore, missing shingles might also cause leaks later on.
How to Spot Storm Damage on Roof Vents, Chimney Covers, and Other Rooftop Elements
Roof vents and other features, such as skylights, should be checked for damage if you inspect your roof or have a contractor check the building for damage. Dings, dents, and chipped surfaces are all possible indications of damage.
Compared to chimney covers, the damage is typically easier to see on soft metal vents. In the latter scenario, you might need to run chalk across the surface sideways to identify hail damage.
Hail Damage on Metal Roofs
Shingles are among the most common roof materials, especially for homes, but they are not the only ones. Hail damage on metal roofs is most likely to show up as dents. Luckily, this makes it easy to repair the sustained damage.
Hail Damage on Shake Roofs
If a hailstone strikes a wooden shingle, it will split in half. This also makes the damage very obvious.
Hail Damage on Clay or Slate Roofs
If your roof is slate or clay, it probably has dents or cracks from the hail and severe storms.
Is a Hail Storm Likely to Cause Roof Damage?
Many aspects can influence whether hail will harm your roof and its supporting structures. Generally, at least 1 inch in diameter hail will harm your asphalt shingles.
The hail may have to be slightly larger to damage your roofing. For example, concrete tiles and cement tiles usually need hail that is at least one ¼ inch in size to cause any damage to the roof.
How Do Insurance Adjusters Measure Hail Damage on a Roof?
Before you file a claim with your insurance company, you’ll need to take photos and videos of the damage to your roof. Meeting with your public adjuster may also be a good idea because they may help you find a contractor, negotiate prices, and manage your insurance.
Should I Claim Hail Damage on My Roof?
Having pictures of your property before it was damaged is an intelligent thing to do. These images will show how your property, including vehicles and other outdoor assets, looked before the storm damage. Such photographic evidence will make it more difficult for your insurance company to reject your claim.
Some insurance providers may have a minimum threshold for hail damage before accepting a claim for roof damage. An insurance provider might need a set amount of hits within a specific area. If the damage to the roof requires repairs or replacement, you should also get estimates.
However, if your insurance provider approves your claim, you should be aware that the payout will depend on the extent of the wind damage, the type of roofing you have, and your insurance coverage.
Do You Have Roof Damage Caused By Hail Storms?
Call an expert roofing professional immediately if you believe hail storms have damaged your roof. You can save money, time, and stress by quickly fixing these problems. You will receive expert guidance as you proceed with the roof hail repair process.
Are you ready to move forward with fixing your roof? Request a free estimate with your professional roofing company!
by Brad | Feb 21, 2023 | Roofing Tips
In most cases, homeowners insurance covers all hail damage roof claims.
Nevertheless, many homeowners insurance plans have coverage limitations for superficial roof damage in states where wind and hail damage are frequent.
Sadly, this is the case for Texas, as according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, it was the state with the most hail damage claims over the past few years,
If your roof exhibits damage after a hailstorm, call your home insurance provider to verify if your policy covers the loss.
You might not be reimbursed for repairs or replacement if your insurance believes that the damage to your roof resulted from improper roof care.
Should I File a Hail Damage Claim on My Roof?
Consider how many hail damage claims you’ve made during the previous three to seven years before filing a hail damage insurance claim.
Your homeowners insurance company documents the number of hail damage claims you’ve filed.
Therefore, your premiums may increase if you’ve made more than two hail damage insurance claims in the last five years.
Still, filing a hail damage insurance claim is always worthwhile if the damage is significant.
The cost of increased premiums is often much less than rebuilding a roof.
It’s in the best interest of a roofing contractor to urge you to submit hail damage claims every time there is a hail storm, but this doesn’t mean it is always the right thing to do.
Questions You Need to Ask Before Filing Hail Damage Insurance Claims
Before opting to submit an insurance claim, you should consider asking the following questions to your roofing contractor:
- How old is the roof?
- What can be deducted from the insurance company policy?
- What is covered by my insurance?
- Are these shingles still being produced?
- Do my roof slopes have vents that divide them, or is my roof one continuous roof?
- How bad is the damage to your roof?
- Is the damage confined to a single location?
- What kind of roof damage have I sustained?
- Can the damage be fixed?
- Will my homeowner’s insurance cover hail damage claims?
- How different is the cost of repairing versus replacing the roof?
How Do Insurance Adjusters Determine Hail Damage Claims?
The things that insurance companies look for when evaluating a property after a hailstorm are often unknown to the general public.
However, the following indicators are the main things they check when determining if they need to cover hail damage:
Significant Granule Loss
This indicator does not call for repair or replacement but suggests that the roof’s lifespan was affected.
Damaged or Missing Asphalt Shingles
The shingle’s surface must have significant damage for the insurance to consider paying out hail damage insurance claims.
Broken Vents
Dents in metal roofing vents can be used to support insurance claims by providing evidence of the magnitude and frequency of hail.
Corroded Gutters
Damage to the gutters could mean that the roof is no longer functionally useful.
Other Damages
The outside of the house and any damage to your personal property will also be assessed.
This is meant to gather and preserve trustworthy evidence to help the insurance claim department determine the nature and extent of damage to your property.
Proof of Leakage
A claim adjuster will look for signs of leaks such as deterioration, peeling, curled or collapsed roofing, and damage or corrosion.
How Do You Calculate the Actual Cash Value of a Roof?
Actual cash value (ACV) is the cost of lost or damaged goods at the moment of the loss.
You can calculate the actual cash value of a roof by estimating how much it is meant to last and comparing it to how much time you’ve had it installed.
In the case of ACV coverage, the insurance provider will retain a percentage of the roof’s value rather than paying the total amount.
This is called depreciation.
One good practical example of this is the following:
A brand-new roof may cost $20,000 and last for 20 years.
This would indicate that it loses 5% of its value annually.
If your roof is ten years old, it has lost half its worth, making its actual cash value $10,000.
In addition, the insurance company could depreciate more money depending on how well-maintained your roof is.
This is because although some roofs that are ten years old could still be in excellent shape, others might be affected by unrepaired wind or hail damage.
What Not to Say to an Insurance Company
Usually, your homeowners’ insurance covers these events.
However, everything you say to an insurance adjuster should not be interpreted as an admission of fault.
You must prove that something else caused the damage to be compensated.
If you say you were guilty of what happened, even if you argue that you were only partially to blame, the value of your claim can be significantly lowered or wholly rejected.
You must be careful while discussing the damages with a public adjuster, as you could make them seem less severe than they are.
The opinions expressed during this meeting might cast doubt on the validity of your whole case and lessen your chances of receiving compensation.
However, it would be best to consider the severity of your home’s damages.
Never tell an insurance adjuster anything other than what you know when telling them about the event.
It is OK for you to respond “I don’t know” if you are unsure of what happened or cannot provide a firm opinion about a certain aspect of the hail damage insurance claim.
Let Us Help You with Your Hail Damage Roof Claim
Dealing with an insurance company can be complicated for many property owners if they have never done it before.
Luckily, here at Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR, we can choose the right roofing contractor for you.
We will ensure they have enough experience dealing with insurance claims so that your insurance policy covers the damage to your roof caused by weather events.
This will significantly lower the replacement cost after a hail storm.
by Brad | Feb 4, 2023 | Roofing Tips
Your roof replacements are one of the most critical components of your home, providing essential protection from the elements and ensuring the structural integrity of your property.
However, over time, your roof can become damaged, worn out, or otherwise compromised, putting your home at risk of water damage and other structural damage.
A new roof installation process is often the best solution for protecting your home and ensuring that your roof is in top condition.
However, suppose you want to replace a roof. In that case, you must first assess materials’ prices through an accurate estimate, determine what roofing material suits your home the best, and many other things that will affect your final price.
This comprehensive guide will explore the new roof installation process, including the steps involved, the associated costs, the best time of year to install a roof, and the benefits of new roof installation.
Whether you are a homeowner in Austin, Texas, or anywhere else in the state, this guide will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your roofing needs with the local roofing companies and roofing contractors.
Steps Involved in the New Roof Installation Process
To replace metal roofs, the process typically involves several key steps, including:
Inspection and Assessment
Before the roof replacement, your existing roof must be inspected and assessed to determine the extent of any damage and to plan the installation process.
Preparation and Planning
After the inspection and assessment, the next step is to plan and prepare for the installation process. This includes determining the type of roof materials, ordering more materials, and scheduling the installation work.
Tear-off and Disposal
Then, the old materials must be removed and disposed of in an environmentally-safe manner.
Roof Deck Preparation
The roof replacement deck must be prepared for the new roofing material, including making necessary repairs, cleaning the surface, and installing any essential underlayment.
Installation of New Materials
The professional will install new materials, including ventilation, flashing, asphalt shingles, and drainage systems.
Clean-up and Inspection
Once the new materials are installed, the installation roof area is cleaned up, and a final check is performed to ensure that the new roof has been installed correctly.
Costs Associated with a New Roof Installation
One of the most important considerations for most homeowners is the new roof installation cost.
The roof cost can vary widely depending on many factors, including the roof size, the type of materials used, and the complexity of the roof installation process.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a 1000-square-foot Roof?
The average price for a roof replacement for a 1000-square-foot area can range from $4,000 to $5,500, depending on the material costs and the complexity of the installation process. You will get a higher price for any additional roofing square.
What Is the Average Roof Replacement Cost in Austin, Texas?
The average roof in Austin, Texas, will typically cost from $3,000 to $5,000, although this can vary depending on the size of the roof and the type of roofing materials used.
It best Time of Year to Install an Entire Roof
When installing a new roof, timing is also an important consideration. The best time of year to install a roof is typical during the spring or fall when temperatures are mild and the weather is less likely to be disrupted by severe storms.
Installing a roof during the summer months can be challenging, as hot temperatures can make it difficult for materials to adhere correctly and can put added stress on the roof installation crew.
A roof installation during the winter can also be problematic, as cold temperatures and snow or ice can make it challenging to work on the roof and can also stress the materials.
Benefits of Installing a New Roof
Aside from the obvious benefits of protecting your home from water damage and ensuring the structural integrity of your property, there are many other benefits to installing a roof.
These benefits include:
Increased Energy Efficiency
New roofing materials can help improve your home’s energy efficiency by providing better insulation and reducing air leaks.
Enhanced Curb Appeal
Roof replacements can enhance the visual appeal of your home, increasing its value and making it more attractive to potential buyers.
Improved Comfort
Your home will be more comfortable, as the roof replacement will better protect your home from the elements and reduce the heat lost or gained through the roof.
Increased Lifespan
The roof replacement can help extend your home’s lifespan, as the roof will be in top condition and better able to withstand the elements and other types of damage.
Lower Maintenance Labor Costs
You can enjoy lower maintenance costs, as you will no longer need to pay roof repair or roof replacement costs for tile roofs.
Final Thoughts – Get a Quote for Your Roofing Materials!
Whether you are an Austin homeowner or anywhere else in the state, a new roof cost is essential for protecting your home and ensuring it remains in top condition. With the information in this comprehensive guide, you can make an informed decision about your roofing cost and enjoy the benefits of a new roof. If you have questions or concerns about the new roof cost or installation process, contact the quality roofing contractors for professional advice and guidance.
by Brad | Jan 31, 2023 | Roofing Tips
Texas is no stranger to weather extremes. From scorching summers to sudden downpours, the state experiences various weather conditions that can take a toll on homes and other possessions. This is why many Central Texas residents opt for corrugated metal roofing installations.
A 2008 study by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory revealed the economic benefits of metal roofing. Metal roofs boast superior insulation qualities compared to conventional materials, significantly reducing energy expenses.
Specifically, they can reduce the average metal roof and other energy costs by as much as 40% in the summer and 15% in the winter, making them a wise investment, particularly for those who want to save energy and money.
What Are the Steps to Installing a New Metal Roof?
Here is a step-by-step guide for a properly installed roof that can save money and energy in the long run:
Take Roof Measurements
When purchasing materials for roofing, you should add an extra 10% to 15% to your estimate to account for potential errors and cutting adjustments.
Ensure to accurately calculate the flat roof slope, which can be determined by the “rise over run” formula. Measure the height from the starting point of the asphalt shingle roof using a ladder and a level.
Tear Down Your Old Roof
You should consider renting a dumpster to remove waste when replacing your roof. Start the removal process at the highest point of your existing roof and work your way downwards in an organized manner.
Address any protruding nails by hammering them down or disposing of them. Inspect the roof’s base structure as the waste removal progresses. Once your roof area is clear of debris, you can prepare your workspace.
Prepare the Area
Perform removal and workspace preparation on a day with no precipitation to avoid water damage to the roof. Arrange your tools and metal roofing materials in a well-organized manner for easy access.
If the decking shows signs of decay or damage, replace it during this stage. Remove debris or dirt before proceeding to the next step.
Roll the Roof Underlayment
Roofing underlayment materials are usually available in rolls that cover an area of 100 square feet and have a width of three to four per square foot. Start by unrolling the insulation materials with the adhesive side down, allowing a few inches to hang over the metal roofs.
Lay it lengthwise across the roof, moving slowly to ensure a smooth and even surface. Ensure that each pass overlaps one to two inches for complete coverage.
Install the Edging
Eave flashing protects the bottom edge by lining it near the gutter location. The flashing extends slightly over the gutters to enhance water runoff. It comes in 10-12 ft sections that overlap each other by two-three inches and spread over the edge by the same amount.
You should seal the overlapping edges with caulk. Cut the flashing to size with tin snips and fold the excess over the roofs. Attach the flashing to the using metal-to-wood screws, placed every eight inches starting eight inches from the roofs.
Install the Metal Panels
First, mark screw points using chalk lines on your panels. Begin six inches from each panel’s top. Then, every two feet down, snap another line. The fastening sites in each row of screws should be roughly a square foot apart.
Begin at the top of your roof’s most excellent squared portions. Each piece should ideally reach from the roof’s peak and overflow your eaves by 3/4-inch. Before securing your panels, cut them to size.
Attach each panel along the snapped lines with #12 metal-to-wood screws. Use your #12 self-tapping screws to link your panels where they overlap and join at two-square-foot vertical intervals.
After that, go to the less squared-off areas of your roof. Measure these regions precisely and cut your panels to fit at ground level.
Install the Flashing
The final touch on the roofing project is flashing. These parts close all joints that are smaller than 140 degrees. You can stretch these to match your exact shape requirements using the above panel bending equipment. It often does not extend beyond a square foot on either side of the corner it covers.
Once cut to fit, fastening these will be simple, requiring only one row of screws on each end of the covered seam. Because this is the final step in the sealing process, butyl tape or caulk should be applied an inch within each side of the flashing before fastening it.
Can You Put a Metal Roof Over the Asphalt Shingles?
In almost every scenario, the answer is yes; you can use new shingle roofs over old asphalt shingle roofs. One of the reasons metal roofs are becoming more popular than asphalt roofs is that their installation does not require removing the previous roof entirely, which can be time-consuming and more costly than getting asphalt shingles.
Can I Install Metal Roofing by Myself?
Even though you can theoretically install a metal roof by yourself, this sort of roofing takes experience many people lack. As a result, never try to build your new roof unless you have some understanding and the correct staff to assist you. When in doubt, always hire an expert roof tradesperson to complete the task.
Does the Metal Roof Need an Underlayment?
Yes, metal roofing requires an underlayment.
Asphalt shingle roof requires a felt and synthetic underlayment; the new roof requires a unique solution since the contraction and expansion of standard underlayment compromises its integrity. The underlayment for metal roofing must have high heat, ice, and water protection.
The cotton-like threads in a high-heat, ice, and water shield will not attach to the metal roof system when it expands and contracts. This keeps the underlayment from being damaged, allowing it to protect the roofing if water gets under the panels.
While this shield is required as an underlayment, the metal roof is also routinely placed with premium systems such as synthetic, granite, and cedar shake. Just be aware that the new metal roof installation costs more than the other varieties of underlayment.
Final Thoughts
Installing a metal roof in the Austin area can be a complex process, but following a step-by-step guide can make the outcome successful and efficient.
Water damage can be a significant concern regarding roofing, and choosing a suitable material to withstand harsh weather conditions is crucial.
Metal roofing is a popular option due to its durability and resistance to water damage, making it an excellent investment for many homeowners.
Labor and contractor expenses, such as equipment rental, primarily drive the cost of installing metal roofs.
On average, these labor costs make up two-thirds of the total price.
According to Roofing Calculator, the labor costs of installing a metal roof per 100 square foot range from $350 to $400. For a seam roof, which is more challenging to install, you can expect to pay around $500 for the same area.
by Brad | Jan 31, 2023 | Roofing Tips
The sound of the wind howling and rain beating down on your roof is a nerve-wracking experience. As the recent Texas storm rages on, the fear of potentially serious damage to your property only intensifies. A wind storm, heavy rain, or repair hail can wreak havoc on even the most robust and durable roofs.
When the Texas storm finally subsides, the aftermath can be devastating. Suddenly, it left you with a long list of storm-damaged roof repairs and an overwhelming sense of uncertainty.
How much will storm damage repair cost? How long will it take? Relax, take a deep breath, and know you’re not alone.
This comprehensive guide on wind damage roof estimates in Austin is here to help you navigate the insurance claim process and give you the peace of mind you need.
What Is the Minimum Wind Speed Required to Cause Roof Damage?
Brace yourself for the full power of a natural disaster! Wind, a seemingly harmless element, can wreak havoc on homes and properties when it picks up speed. At 45 mph and above, your landscaping may be at risk, but your home is not safe either.
The wind can lift loose shingles, snap weak trees or limbs, and leave your roof vulnerable to damage. When wind speeds hit 55 mph and beyond, expect more property damage, from fallen trees to severe damage and storm-damaged roofs.
The destruction is catastrophic as wind speeds soar to 65 mph and above. Widespread tree damage flipped motor homes and damaged roofs of commercial and residential buildings.
The effects of wind gusts of 75 mph or more leave you in awe and despair. Don’t let the wind-damaged roof repair costs leave you stranded. A professional inspection, insurance company claim, and local roofing contractor are essential to make roof repair possible.
What Are the Signs of a Wind-Damaged Roof?
Here are some signs that your need roof repair.
Spots of Granules Gone from the Shingles
Wind can significantly impact your roof, causing the loss of granules. During an inspection, the first place to look for evidence of missing granules is in the gutters, where they tend to accumulate.
Peeling Asphalt Shingles
The pressure points on your roof are susceptible to recent storm damage, including the edges. When the wind takes hold of the shingles and begins to peel them away, it can cause curling that leaves your roof vulnerable to storm damage and deterioration.
Missing Shingles
Strong winds can completely rip shingles from your roof, leaving it vulnerable to further hail damage and the future need for roof repairs.
If you notice shingles scattered around your home or in your yard, it’s essential to have a professional inspect your entire roof to evaluate the extensive repairs.
Tears or Cracks in a Rubber Roof
Wind power can be so strong that it can pick up materials from a flat roof, potentially tearing it away or creating pockets of air that weaken the roof’s structure.
It is imperative to thoroughly inspect the roof for any signs of wind damage, such as missing chunks of material or tears in the roofing system.
These signs can indicate a need for roof repairs or replacement to ensure the stability and longevity of the roof.
Damaged Soffit or Fascia
The soffit and fascia on your roof protect your home from damage and critters.
Wind can cause bent areas, create cracks, or even blow off the fascia, leaving your roof vulnerable to roof leaks and unwanted intrusions. A thorough roof inspection will identify storm damage repairs to these critical components.
Is a 40-mph Wind Strong Enough to Damage a Roof?
Brisk winds below 45 mph may scatter some outdoor objects, but rest assured that any significant damage to your landscape or property will be minimal.
While your patio umbrella may take a joyride to your neighbor’s yard, don’t let the howling high winds outside fool you – you and your surrounding communities are well protected.
Which Roofing Material Is Most Susceptible to Wind Damage?
Asphalt shingles, tile, and wood, commonly used roofing materials, are susceptible to wind uplift, exposing the roof deck to wind-driven storm damage. Metal roofs may suffer from cupping and curling of shingles in scorching weather, making them easy targets for strong winds.
Wood shakes can split or become unsecured, making them highly susceptible to wind uplift. Clay tile roofs, known for their fragility, also face the dangers of wind uplift, with only a few manufacturers offering wind warranty coverage.
How to Make Roof Repairs
You can repair a wind-damaged roof. The amount of work needed will depend on the extent of the damage, which could range from replacing a few missing shingles to getting a roof replacement.
Getting a professional assessment as soon as possible is best if you see any damage, as the structural damage will worsen over time.
Professionals will do a property inspection and use a drone to determine the extent of the damage. After that, they will inform the property owner of the severity of the damage and then will discuss the next steps.
Final Thoughts – Do You Need a Roof Replacement?
The issue of water damage in Austin homes and properties can often be traced back to wind damage to roofs. As wind speeds increase and severe storms are coming, it becomes increasingly important for homeowners to ensure they are equipped with their shelters to withstand these elements.
Hiring a roofing contractor to get a free estimate is crucial to address any wind damage and prevent further damage. This will thoroughly assess the damage and recommend whether you need a roof repair.
By taking proactive steps to maintain the integrity of their roofs, many homeowners can safeguard their homes from the damaging effects of wind and water.
Additionally, it is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest building codes and standards to ensure the roof is properly constructed and equipped to handle wind damage. Investing in a high-quality roofing contractor can provide peace of mind and protection for many years.
