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Category: Roofing

How to Remove Mold From Roof Shingles

That dreaded green mold staining and spreading across your shingles does nothing to enhance the appearance of your home. In fact, mold can eat away at roof shingles, leaving you with rot and an unsightly roofing structure. 

Excessive mold growth can also cause various health conditions, such as asthma and headaches. Though it’s more common in warm, humid climates, mold can grow just about anywhere.

Combating fungus, moss, and mildew on your roof is not an easy task. It can also be a dangerous job since it often requires climbing onto the roof. Consider calling a professional roof repair specialist in Long Beach to help! 

In the meantime, here are two simple steps for DIY mold growth removal.

1. Prepare Your Tools and Cleaning Chemicals

If you are prepared to take on the job yourself, make sure you have the right equipment and supplies. Wear slip-resistant shoes, a safety harness with a strong rope attached, and a pair of hardy gloves. If you’re using a ladder, make sure it’s sturdy and that someone is standing by to assist you.

A basic bleach solution of a 50/50 mix of water and bleach suits the DIY job. Add ½ cup of trisodium phosphate per gallon of your bleach mix for a stronger solution. 

Take note that bleach is toxic to plants. A light spray of water over your garden plants before you begin will help to minimize the risk of losing your precious trees and flowers. Professional roofing services in Long Beach have the know-how to avoid damaging your surrounding flora while removing mold from your roof. 

This is also a good time to consider additional maintenance tasks, such as trimming back overgrown branches, removing accumulated debris on your roof, and checking your gutters for good water drainage. 

Alternatively, contact a roofing company in Long Beach, CA, specializing in mold removal to ensure the job gets done safely and effectively. 

2. Start Spraying

Once you have mixed the bleach solution in a clean bucket, transfer it to a mist sprayer and spritz over the moss, fungus, or mold. Wear a pair of sturdy gloves to keep the solution away from your skin. 

Allow the bleach to rest for about 30 minutes, then rinse the shingles to wash away the bleach solution. It is not recommended to use a high-pressure hose, as this could damage your shingles and spread the bleach to unwanted areas. 

The safest and best alternative is to engage professional roofing services in Long Beach from contractors who are trained and certified in the correct procedures.

Hire a Professional Roofing Company in Long Beach, CA

Ocean-adjacent neighborhoods are extra prone to algae and moss growth. If these colonies have been growing for some time, there could also be underlying damage that isn’t visible to the untrained eye. 

An experienced roof repair specialist in Long Beach will know how to deal with any underlying issues and can also provide tips to reduce the future growth of mold and algae.

Spring Cleaning Checklist for Your Roof in Los Angeles, CA

Winter is over, and into spring we jump – time to do the cleaning, clearing, and checking! 

Regularly cleaning and maintaining your roof and the rest of your home can save thousands of dollars over the years. Start your project checklist, and you can relax for the rest of spring and summer. 

Below are some ways you should consider pampering your roofing system as soon as spring arrives.

1. Get to Work on the Gutters

Gutters can be the first to feel the after-effects of the winter months. Debris blocks and clogs downpipes, and your gutters will not be able to do their job effectively. 

Grab a sturdy ladder, ensure you follow safety precautions, and get to work. Clean the visible areas, then move on to the downspouts. Spray water from your garden hose and check that the water drains off freely and is completely debris-free. 

If you would rather leave it to the professionals, consider hiring a roof repair specialist in Los Angeles. 

2. Clear the Shingles

The next important step is to spring clean the shingles of any debris and then check for loose, missing, buckling, or stained shingles. 

Garden debris is one of the main culprits that can cause roof damage, especially to your shingles. Harsh weather conditions like heavy snow or ice will also leave their mark. If you want to consider doing a DIY job, use a leaf blower to remove this seasonal leftover. 

Repairing or replacing loose or lifted shingles is best handled by a licensed roofer in Los Angeles, CA.

3. Check the Flashing

If your skylights, chimneys, and vents have been compromised during heavy wind or storms in winter, your roof will be left vulnerable. Keeping a constant eye on your flashings is imperative for a well-maintained roofing structure, especially for the coming spring rains.

Like any task that requires climbing onto the roof, repairing or replacing damaged flashing should be left to professional contractors.

4. Trim Those Branches

Overgrown branches can threaten the integrity of your roofing in Los Angeles, CA, so it is best to keep trimming the vegetation. Clippers are suitable for the smaller branches, but thicker ones may require a chainsaw. 

If you do not have the proper equipment, consider asking the Los Angeles roofing company for the names of professional arborists in the area.

Keeping overhanging branches under check will help keep your gutters clear of obstructions. At the start of the spring season, keep an eye on any trees near your roof and ensure your gutters remain free from debris.

5. Clean the Soffit and Fascia

The soffit is an overhanging panel that helps regulate the temperature inside your home. The fascia’s purpose is mainly aesthetic; it lines the side of your roof’s overhang and makes it appear more finished.

Check these areas for the small animals and birds that have nested there in the winter months, and wipe away any mold or mildew growth.

6. Look Out for Mold

If there is evidence of mold, and it has progressed to a large area of your roof, call in a Los Angeles roofing company for a thorough assessment. 

If it is minor growth, mix a solution of 50/50 bleach and water and spray over the affected areas. Be careful to rinse thoroughly and ensure your plants are well protected from overspray. 

7. Check From the Inside Out

Inspecting your attic for any damage that could have been caused by water leaks or holes in your roof is a crucial step in the spring cleaning process. 

If you notice a musty odor or water stains, search for leaks. Call a specialist in roofing in Los Angeles, CA, who can pinpoint the source of the problem. 

Top Spring Cleaning Tip: Give the Professionals a Call!

Hiring an experienced Los Angeles roofing company will guarantee your spring cleaning project will be done expertly with the best turnaround time. Sit back, relax, and leave it to the professionals!

5 Ways to Keep Roof Replacement Costs Down

A roof is necessary, and it’s an aspect of your home that must be done right. To avoid further repairs and extra costs in the future, you want to ensure professionals do any roof replacement to a high standard.

As a roof repair specialist in Los Angeles, we know a thing or two about replacements. Still, we also know that for some homeowners, money might be a little tight at the moment. Take a look at 5 ways you can help keep the cost of a roof replacement down!

1. Do Your Research

As Los Angeles roofing contractors, we cannot stress how important doing your research is. For example, you need to know the size of your roof, the shape, and the current material (shingles, clay tiles, or something else) before you jump on the phone to roofers in Los Angeles.

When you have this information on hand, you’ll be able to keep estimates consistent and close to the actual replacement costs. You should get an itemized estimate, as well. Some less-reputable companies will try to hide the cost of things like permits and dumpster rentals.

2. Get a Free Estimate

You should never have to pay for an estimate from a roofing company. Should you notice some structural damage, or if you’ve got a leak, locate the number of a local company for a free estimate. Most roofers in Los Angeles will provide you with a detailed report to tell you exactly what it is you need, whether it’s a small repair or a whole re-roof.

It’s important to gather more than one estimate, too. We’d recommend 2-3, so you can more accurately judge the real cost of your roof replacement.

3. Don’t Settle For the First Company You Contact

It’s a competitive market, so you need to shop around when searching for a roofer in Los Angeles. Compare companies from different parts of town –LA County’s a big place, and you might find the best roofers in Los Angeles where you least expect them.

It’s also important to watch out for really cheap estimates, as this usually suggests poor quality workmanship. It could also indicate that the crew isn’t licensed or insured. That means you could be financially, or even legally, on the hook for any injuries and damages.

4. Check Your Warranty

When was the last time your roof was replaced? It may still be under warranty if you’ve had a replacement within the past 15 years. If you’ve just moved into your new house, make sure to look at the closing paperwork, as the warranty info will most likely have been included.

If your roof is under warranty, the cost of the replacement might be partially covered by a warranty claim. In a similar vein, be sure you’re up-to-date on your homeowner’s insurance policy. If your roof was damaged in a storm, you might be able to make a claim and get part of the replacement roof covered.

5. The Overlay Option

Your Los Angeles roofing contractors will let you know if you can opt for an overlay instead of a replacement. That’s the installation of new shingles on top of your old ones. This saves you money because there are fewer labor hours, and you don’t have to pay for your old roof to be taken away.

However, it’s not always the best option to choose due to it potentially shortening or voiding any warranty you may have on your roofing materials. An overlay is a definite trade-off, but it may be worth it if money is tight and you really need a new roof.

Your Roof Repair Specialist in Los Angeles

Roof Repair Specialist will get you a roof that fits your needs and your budget. From Long Beach to the San Fernando Valley, we’re proud to serve LA.

Contact us today for a free estimate!

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Leaks & Other Damage?

The roof arguably gets the most exposure to the elements compared to other parts of your home. Homeowner’s insurance can help protect this integral component from unforeseen damage. However, homeowners must understand that a home insurance policy doesn’t cover every type of damage that may happen to the roof.

One common question that comes up regularly is, does homeowners insurance cover roof leaks? You might also ask, what about hail and wind damage? We’ll explore each problem in detail in this article. 

What Kind of Roof Damage Is Covered by Insurance?

A typical homeowners insurance policy covers the structure’s roof and the cost of replacement if it sustains damage. However, this coverage depends on an important variable: What caused the damage?

Roof Leaks 

When you ask the question, “does homeowner’s insurance cover roof leaks,” the answer starts with identifying the cause of the problem. Home insurance covers roof leaks caused by a named peril in your policy, such as fire, wind, or fallen trees.

However, roof leaks that arise from lack of maintenance and general wear and tear aren’t covered by homeowners insurance. Insurance companies also typically deny claims for damage caused by pets, mold, and contractor errors.  

Wind Damage 

Your home’s roof can take a beating from high wind gusts, which can lift shingles and dislodge the roof’s underlayment and framework. Fortunately, most basic homeowner policies include coverage for wind damage and the ensuing water damage under what’s called dwelling protection coverage. In California, nearly 16% of home insurance claims come from wind and hail damage.

Tree Damage

A standard homeowner’s insurance policy covers most weather-related events, including fallen trees. However, as with other types of insurance, this may depend on what caused the tree to damage your roof or property.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, trees that fell due to named perils like wind, hail, or lightning qualify for coverage, regardless of who owns the tree. Typically, the insurance company will pay for tree removal, roof repairs, and interior damage caused by a fallen tree.

Other Types of Damages

Although standard home insurance typically covers damages caused by named perils, issues arising from other common causes of roof damage are less likely to qualify for coverage. For example, home insurance rarely covers damages caused by poorly maintained and aging roofing materials.

Tips for California Residents Filing a Roof Insurance Claim

If your roof shows signs of damage after a major storm or another event, use these tips to determine whether it might qualify for coverage under your homeowner’s insurance policy.

1. Review Your Policy

Sometimes, the answer to a question like, “does home insurance cover roof leaks,” is in your policy. Before making a claim with your insurance company, take the time to understand your policy by reading the fine print. Learn about your coverages, exclusions, deductibles, and what you need to file a claim. 

2. Assess & Document Damages 

Document damages by taking photos and noting the date and time of the storm. If you suspect it was severe, contact roof repair experts to assess the extent of the damage. As professional roofers, they can spot any underlying issues you or your insurance adjuster may overlook. 

Complete documentation can support your claim by giving your insurer a reliable record of what happened and details about the necessary repair or replacement. 

3. Get an Estimate 

Typically, a representative from the insurance company will come to your home and assess the damage before issuing a check for repairs. However, a homeowner can also get a supplemental estimate from a contractor that includes damages the insurance company might have overlooked. Keep in mind that most insurance companies will require a line-item estimate, so find out if your roofer can provide one.

4. Be Prompt

Most insurance companies require policyholders to reach out as soon as possible when damage happens. In California, an insurance company has 40 days to accept or reject a claim. An insurer can request additional time to review a claim, but they must provide notification to the policyholder every 30 days.

Once the roof inspection is done and you receive an estimate, contact your provider and file a claim. The insurance company may request the result of a professional roof inspection and the estimated repair cost.

Can My Damage Claim Be Denied?

While some homeowners receive approval and undergo the repair process without a hitch, others may get denied. Here are some of the top reasons why this can happen:

  • Lack of appropriate roof maintenance
  • Structural issues that existed before you bought the property 
  • Roof wear and tear
  • Previous damages 
  • Claim filed too late 

Because coverage isn’t always straightforward, homeowners must choose a roofing contractor that provides a comprehensive roof warranty. A roof warranty protects against sudden damage that can threaten the structure’s safety. Failing to maintain routine maintenance, regular inspections, or timely repairs can void your roof warranty. 

Prevent Roof Damage with Roof Repair Specialist

As you can see, the answer to the question, “does home insurance cover roof leaks,” may not always be clear. Even if you have a policy that covers damages associated with weather-related events, it’s still worthwhile to maintain your roof and have it inspected regularly to avoid claim denials. 

At Roof Repair Specialist, we help Southern California homeowners care for their roofs. We’re experts in routine maintenance and timely repairs and offer the industry’s best roof warranties. Reach out today to learn more or schedule a service! 

How Long Do Tile Roofs Last in California?

The tile roofing found in California is known for capturing the look of the Southwest and Mediterranean climates. While tile roofs work well just about anywhere and can be made to match virtually any home, they are popular in our area.

There are several reasons why roof tiles are popular, chiefly their durability, which gives tremendous strength to their iconic look. How long do tile roofs last in California? The answer is an astounding 50-100 years when properly maintained. Compare that with asphalt shingles, which tend to last 20-30 years.

California Roof Tiles

You can install tile roofing almost anywhere in the United States and get long-lasting roof results. Fortunately for California homeowners, roof tiles are particularly well-suited to the area. Roof tiles stand up to the salt and humidity of coastal regions and can handle the harsh sun. Roof tiles are also impervious to fire, which is crucial for homeowners in California.

How Long Do Different Types of Tile Roofing Last?

The most common types of roof tiles are clay or concrete. Both come in various shapes and styles and can match virtually any architectural design. While roof tiles tend to conjure a southwestern or Mediterranean image, they can be made to look like wood to match the Craftsman style, log homes, and many other designs.

For those looking for higher-end roof tiles, slate can be an option. Slate costs much more than any other type of roofing but lasts up to 150 years. Meanwhile, clay tiles can last over 100 years, and concrete over 50 years when properly maintained.

Regular Maintenance and a Tile Reset

The key to tile roof longevity is maintenance, particularly replacing broken tiles and the underlayment, which does not last as long as the tiles themselves. The underlayment is the material below the tiles that provide the additional waterproofing a roof needs. It can last over 30 years when two layers of quality underlayment are used.

To get the most out of a tile roof, experts can pull the roof tiles, replace the underlayment, and then relay the tiles for added roof life and performance. This service is called a tile reset.

Saving with a Tile Roof

First, there’s the matter of durability. Tile roofs can be more expensive to install than other types of roofing, like asphalt shingles, but homeowners save with tile roofs over time. A home with asphalt roofing will likely need a new roof every 20-30 years. That means up to five new roofs for that home compared to just one clay roof in the same timespan.

Tile roofs excel at reflecting the sun’s heat. That can mean reduced power bills in the summer. During cooler months, tile roofs help keep heat in the house, so heating bills can benefit.

Should You Seal Your Tile Roof?

A tile roof does not need to be sealed. The tiles themselves keep moisture out when properly installed with an underlayment below. However, annual maintenance is recommended. Experts will inspect the roof for broken tiles and look for roof damage in areas like roof valleys, which can be addressed. If roof valleys regularly accumulate debris, experts can cut back the tile and install a channel to allow water to run off more effectively.

How Often Should a Tile Roof Be Cleaned?

Tile roofs are relatively low maintenance. They also look great without having to be cleaned often. When installed properly, the tiles can withstand harsh climate conditions like relentless sun and heat, hail, and even debris from high winds.

The primary reason for a tile roof needing to be cleaned involves the accumulation of debris like leaves on the roof. These buildups should be cleaned regularly and not left sitting on the roof for long. How often a roof needs cleaning is determined by how much debris tends to fall and settle on the roof. This can range from every few weeks to every couple years, though once per year is typical.

Other types of roof cleaning can be for aesthetic reasons. For example, a northern-facing roof that receives less direct sunlight can see algae accumulation. This will not likely damage the tiles, but they can be cleaned to remove the unwanted look of algae. This is typically done with a gentle chemical approved for tiles. Tile roof cleaning should be done by a professional due to the potential danger of cleaning in high sloped areas.

Clay vs. Concrete Tile Roofing

What type of roof tile is best for your home? That depends on several factors. Clay and concrete tiles are both made with molds, so you can choose from many options to find the right tile roof for your home. The aesthetic appeal of each will often determine the choice.

The most important factors when choosing clay or concrete tiles for your roof are price and durability. Clay roofing will cost more than concrete for installation. However, newer clay tiles tend to break more easily when walked on than thicker concrete tiles. Only experienced roofers should walk on a tile roof.

On the other hand, roofs that cannot accommodate heavier concrete tiles will require either thinner concrete or clay tiles. You can expect a tile roof to last around 50 to 100 years, so you are getting a long-lasting roof either way.

Regular maintenance is the key to a lasting roof. No matter which type of tile you choose, broken tiles should always be replaced as soon as possible. The underlay will help keep moisture out even when a tile is broken, but it will deteriorate quickly when left exposed.

Find Your Roofing Solutions with Roof Repair Specialist

No matter what type of roofing you have on your home, you can get the roofing service you need in California from our team of qualified roofing professionals.

Five Signs of Rain Gutter Replacement

Rain gutters are among the things that you don’t notice when they’re working correctly. They do their job, and you go about your day without thinking about it. This is a good thing as long as they hold up–and they don’t always.

You might not know when to replace your gutters because the warning signs are subtle. Even in the mild southern California climate, your rain gutters must function properly to prevent significant damage to other parts of your home and property.

How Do You Know if Your Gutters Are Bad?

Sometimes you need a professional to look at the condition of your gutters to know for sure if you need rain gutter replacement. Much of the time, though, you can get a good idea yourself by spotting the major indications of bad gutters. These five signs will let you know when to replace your gutters.

1. Water Marks or Signs of Water Damage Near Gutters

If you look around your gutters, particularly just below them, and notice water stains or even signs of water damage, that’s a clear warning that the system isn’t functioning correctly. It’s an indication that you should have an expert take a look.

2. Cracks in the Rain Gutters

If you can see cracks on the outside of your rain gutters, they are likely close to the end of their lifespan. In fact, the damage could be even worse on the inside. Paint peeling away from the surface is also a sign of bad rain gutters.

3. Gutters Pulling Away From the Roof

This isn’t always a sign that you need rain gutter replacement, but it’s often a symptom of worn-out gutters. It could simply be an issue with the nails, and your gutters could be fine. But if they are pulling away from the roof, then there’s a good chance the system needs replacing.

4. Leaking Gutters

In California, rain gutters can be hard to monitor. You can look for other signs if you don’t see it leaking while it’s raining. There can be depressions, especially in a line along the ground below your gutters that drips have dug.

5. Rotten or Peeling Shingles Near the Gutters

Damage to your roof can often tell you when to replace gutters. If your rain gutters aren’t functioning properly, it can lead to water pooling, mildew growing, and other signs of deterioration. Your shingles will bear the brunt of the problem. They will start to break down, rot, and crack or peel away from the roof.

What Is the Most Common Problem With Rain Gutters?

The most common problem is clogged gutters. Gutters that stay clogged can deteriorate faster and lead to other problems. Water can sit against shingles and cause rot. The weight of debris and water in clogged gutters can pull them away from the roof. Having your gutters cleaned regularly helps alleviate this issue.

Water dripping from your roof and leaking gutters can damage the foundation, leak into the garage, or ruin landscaping. We all know how much it can cost to landscape a home in southern California, so you want to take care of your rain gutters.

How Often Should Gutters Be Replaced?

With regular cleaning and maintenance, your rain gutters can last over 20 years. Of course, their lifespan can get significantly shorter if they remain clogged for extended periods.

Should You Replace Gutters When Replacing Your Roof?

The lifespan of your rain gutters is similar to that of your roof. That means replacing your gutters when replacing your roof is a good idea. Also, it can be easier to do them both at the same time.

Contact Roof Repair Specialist for Rain Gutter Replacement

When it’s time to replace your rain gutters, contact the experts at Roof Repair Specialist. We can craft the right system for your home.

Does Installing Solar Panels Void Roof Warranty?

Many homeowners want to install solar panels to lower their utility bills and have a home power source that does not rely solely on the local utility company. While there are many things to consider before installation, the most common question is, “Does installing solar panels affect roof warranty?”

Generally, solar system installation should not void the warranty on your roof if done correctly and according to the roofing manufacturer’s guidelines. Keep your warranty and roof intact, even with modifications like solar panels and skylights, with the following information.   

Understanding Solar and Roofing Warranties

Your solar panels and roofing should work in unison to improve your home and quality of life. As such, your panels should not undermine your roof and vice versa. Let’s discuss the different warranties you have for the roof and solar array.

Solar Warranties

Solar panel installations come with the following warranties:

Product Warranty: This covers any potential defects the panels and inverters may have come with when they rolled off of the assembly line. The duration of coverage differs for every manufacturer. For instance, inverters are covered for 10-12 years, while panels will have longer coverage.

Power or Performance Warranty: This ensures the energy production of your panels for the first ten years, with 90 percent of the predicted output. As solar panels age, they deteriorate and provide at least 1% less energy each year.

Workmanship Guarantee: Professional solar installers typically provide a warranty on their work, assuring that it adheres to the highest industry standards and requires no rework or repairs.

Roofing Warranties

Your roof will have separate warranties for the materials and labor:

Standard Warranty: As with solar panels, this covers only production defects by the manufacturer, not installation-related damage or wear and tear. The length of coverage typically varies according to the material type. For example, asphalt shingles feature 20-year warranties, whereas metal roofs have a longer coverage.

Workmanship Warranty: Roofing contractors stand by their work, and these labor warranties guarantee that you won’t have issues with their installation.

What Situations Will Void Roof Warranty?

If you decide to go solar, you may ask yourself, “Does installing solar panels void my roof warranty?”

Well, it depends.

If, after a roofing contractor builds your roof, a solar company installs solar panels and, in the process, adds other roofing elements, the roofing company will not cover the new features. For example, if the solar company drills holes in the roof for panel assembly mounting and adds flashing, the flashing will not be covered by the roofing contractor’s warranty. As a homeowner, you could simplify the process by having the roofer install the flashing for the solar panels. That way, you’ll know that your roofing contractor covers any resulting roof damage. 

However, keep in mind that some roofers will void your warranty altogether if any part of the roof was altered by the solar company or a third party. As such, it’s best to discuss these details with your roofer before doing business with them.

Dealing with Voided Roof Warranty

The best way to maintain a roof warranty amidst a solar panel installation is to consult your original roofer. They will advise you or your solar installer on ensuring the roof won’t sustain damage and have its warranty voided.

Should the unfortunate occur and you’re left with an invalidated roof warranty, your solar installer should cover the damage. Most workmanship guarantees ensure there will be no issues with their work quality. Rest assured that you’re covered, even if you know there’s a favorable answer to whether solar panels void roof warranties or not.

But what happens when you need a new roof with solar panels?Work with a trusted contractor in the Los Angeles area like Roof Repair Specialist to replace your roof. Also, you will need to contact your solar installer and have them remove the mounted array before starting any roofing work. Then, when they re-install the system, make sure they follow your roofer’s recommendations to prevent voiding the warranties.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Roof? [Your Expert Guide]

The roofing system is one of the most critical parts of your home. It adds to your property’s curb appeal and protects you from Mother Nature. But the roof will go through wear and tear over time and may get damaged by the same elements it shields your home from. 

Investing in roof repairs prolongs your roofing system’s life span and helps you avoid getting a roof replacement prematurely. But how much does it cost to repair a roof, and what factors are included in the price? Let’s take a look at them. 

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Roof?

As of 2021, homeowners typically spend between $366 to $1,570 for roof repairs. However, your actual cost would still depend on the type of repairs you need. Repairing or replacing a few cracked shingles could cost as low as a few hundred dollars. On the other hand, a full roof tile replacement could be a five-figure repair job. 

What’s Included in the Cost of a Roof Repair Job?

Let’s go over the factors that a professional roofer typically considers when making a roofing repair estimate.

Scope of Work

The type of roof damage and the size of the damaged area affects how much time it will take and the amount of expertise and manpower needed to fix the problem. The more complex and labor-intensive the work, the costlier it is. Changing a broken shingle or flashing would be less complicated and cheaper than patching up a large puncture or repairing the trusses. 

Materials

What type of roofing material does your roof have? In general, a roofing contractor will charge more if they’re repairing or replacing an expensive material. Higher quality shingles such as slate, tiles, or wood shake are often harder to install than more affordable materials like asphalt shingles. 

Warranties

Roofing professionals can also offer warranties for roof repairs to ensure that your roof stays in good condition. At Roof Repair Specialist, we provide repair warranties covering your roof from two to twelve years, depending on the roofing material.

The Cost of Neglecting Roof Maintenance and Repairs

Still on the fence about whether you should go through with the roof repairs or not? Let’s weigh the pros and cons of ignoring your roof’s repair needs. While not spending money on repairs and maintenance may seem like a good way to save some cash, it may prove costly in the long run. 

Disadvantages of Neglecting Repairs

  • Existing roof damage can deteriorate to the point where you might have to spend money on a new and more expensive roof installation.
  • A damaged roof means that your home could be more vulnerable to the elements. You could have more leaks, and pests might enter through the roof. 
  • Roof damage could lead to poorer insulation and make your home less energy efficient. 
  • Your property’s value could diminish since the buyer would likely be the one to handle the roof repairs. 

Contact Us for Estimates Today

Knowing how much it costs to repair a roof can help you prepare the right budget for it. Roof repairs can be worth the investment, especially if you’ve got reliable and licensed roofers to do the job safely and correctly. 

Want to know how much your roof repairs might cost? You can call the folks here at Roof Repair Specialist in Los Angeles, CA. Together, we’ll schedule an appointment to evaluate your roof. 

Types of Roof Damage You Can’t Afford to Overlook

The roof is critical in shielding your home from the sun, rain, and other elements of nature. However, your roof may sustain damage over time owing to a variety of factors such as high winds, falling tree limbs, and even local wildlife. Whatever the cause, the damage could progress to the point where repairs or perhaps a complete roof replacement would be required to remedy the situation.

Here’s a guide on the different kinds of roof damage that need your immediate attention. 

Types of Roof Damage That You Shouldn’t Ignore

Roof Blisters

A blister occurs when trapped pockets of air form between layers of roofing. When the temperature outside rises, the air expands from the heat, raising that section of the roof and forming blisters.

You may be able to ignore small blisters for the time being, but they can rapidly grow as air accumulates. If you discover large bubbles (greater than 2 inches in diameter), it’s best to have them repaired as soon as possible. One large blister can spread to others on the roof, or become even larger and eventually rupture, resulting in leaks. 

Missing Shingles

Shingles can become dislodged by high winds and flying debris, exposing the roof’s underlayment to weather damage. If you ignore the missing shingles, you’ll likely end up with leaks and harsher indoor temperatures. Wildlife such as raccoons and squirrels may seek shelter in the remaining roof structure, causing additional damage. Contact a professional roofing company to replace missing shingles before the problem gets bigger.

Loose or Corroded Roof Flashing

A roof’s flashing pertains to the thin metal sheets—typically aluminum or galvanized steel—that are installed under shingles. The flashing directs water away from the joints of architectural features, such as the chimney, skylights, or dormers.

Heat and moisture will corrode and deteriorate the flashing over time. The flashing could also dislodge when wildlife or debris pull or strike them, and result in water intrusion and costly interior damage to your home.

Roof Punctures

Though California is known for having beautiful weather, the occasional storm can cause wind-carried debris and overhanging tree branches to fall and puncture the roof. Punctures can also occur from the weight of foot traffic from people who visit the roof: possible HVAC contractors, painters, chimney sweeps, and house occupants. 

Why Should a Bad Roof Be Addressed Promptly?

You might be tempted to put off roof repairs to save money. But keep in mind that you could end up having to deal with much costlier emergency repairs later on. Leaving the roof alone means you’re letting the damage worsen. 

And since your roof is your house’s first line of defense against the elements, a damaged roof can’t protect you and the rest of your household. 

What Are the Signs of a Failing Roof?

So how can you tell if your roof’s got problems? Let’s check out some of the common exterior and interior signs of roof damage.

  • Water Stains: A leaky roof can let water run down to the ceiling and the walls inside your house, resulting in water stains.
  • Pests: If there are pests such as rodents and raccoons in the attic, they might have entered through a loose shingle, a flashing, or even a roof puncture.
  • Mold on Exterior Walls:  If the flashing no longer directs water away from joints, the moisture that sticks to the walls can allow mold to grow. 

Even if there are no visible signs of roof damage, roofing systems still have a life span. For example, asphalt shingles typically last between 15 to 30 years and have warranties that are just as long. Have your roof inspected to see what needs to be repaired or replaced.

Need a Roofing Expert for Repairs? 

While it’s tempting to fix the roof damage by yourself, you could risk voiding your warranty and insurance policy as it can lead to even further damage. To ensure that your roof repairs are done safely and properly, consider hiring a professional roofer from Roof Repair Specialist. We’ll conduct thorough evaluations of your roof to determine what repair or replacement solutions best meet your needs.

Contact us to get answers to all of your roofing concerns. 

What Is Flashing on a Roof? [Your Guide to Roof Flashing]

Flashing is a thin layer of metal that is used to direct water away from certain areas of a roof, such as vertical features like chimneys.

What is flashing on a roof made of? Usually, non-corrosive metals, including aluminum, lead, or steel. Copper is used occasionally for custom roofs. Flashing can alternately be made of plastic, rubber, or roofing felt.

When flashing is installed, it is sealed to prevent water from getting under it and damaging the roof. If you need new residential flashing, ensure that it is installed correctly by finding an experienced, well-reviewed roofing contractor near you. And if you manage a commercial roof, you’ll need to occasionally inspect the flashing and other features on it.

What Is Roofing Flashing’s Purpose?

Roofers install flashing around roof points that could be vulnerable to water damage, such as skylights, chimneys, and vents. Without flashing, water could run off of shingles and into the seams or spaces around those features. But flashing channels the water back onto the shingles and ultimately into the gutters or off the side of the roof. 

Flashing can be crucial to the long-term integrity of your roof. A single point where water persistently enters could eventually lead to rotten roof boards (decking), along with water damage in the home itself. And that could mean tearing up the shingles and replacing many of the materials underneath. 

Poorly installed flashing is a common culprit when your roof springs a leak. It could even lead to the collapse of decking materials, which is one reason flashing is covered in local building codes.

Does Your Roof Need Flashing? 

A professional roofer can tell you how much flashing—if any—your particular roof needs. Certain features of roofs are more likely to create leaks than others. These include roof valleys, the place where the walls of a dormer feature meet the roof, and skylights, among others. 

Does your roof include any feature that will create an unusually high volume of rain runoff? Does it include opposing surfaces (like a roof and chimney)? Vulnerable areas like those may need to be sealed with flashing.

Does Flashing Go Over or Under Shingles?

Flashing is often installed under roofing materials like shingles. In a roof valley, the flashing is placed between the two intersecting roof edges to channel water down the valley. Shingles are placed partly on top of the flashing, causing more water to drop into the valley, where the flashing is often left open to the air. 

Around a chimney, multiple pieces of metal flashing are laid down. They are often shaped like an L, and attached to the chimney with mortar. Shingles are then laid over the horizontal part of the flashing; the flashing and shingles together should direct water away. However, flashing can sit on top of the shingles on the front of the chimney (the part farthest downslope).

Flashing is also placed around pipes and vents. A watertight seal is applied around the pipe itself. The metal flashing is attached to the roof. And shingles can be placed over the flashing on the highest point of roof, but the flashing will often be placed over the shingles at the lowest point, allowing water to run off the flashing and back onto the shingles.

What Are the Types of Flashing on a Roof?

Various shapes of flashing have been invented for different roof features. Examples include: 

  • Apron or Continuous: Long sections of metal, which often include expansion joints.
  • Valley: Placed where two roof sections meet in a valley.
  • Base: The downslope piece of flashing installed on a chimney or similar feature that requires multiple pieces of flashing.
  • Counter: Used on the upslope area and sides of features like chimneys and paired with base flashing.
  • Skylight: Flashing specialized in protecting skylight seams.
  • Step: Bent sections of metal placed at the base of a wall that intersects a roof; often paired with kickout flashing, which channels water from the wall into a gutter.
  • Drip Edges: Thin strips of metal at the edges of roofs to ensure rain runs off without touching the wooden surface underneath.

Get Professional Flashing Installation & Maintenance

Working with metal flashing pieces is a difficult and important job. Installed correctly, it prevents major, expensive roof damage, but incorrect installation can put your home or business at risk. That’s why you should contact Roof Repair Specialist for this job or any other roofing needs you have.