Hurricanes can cause significant roof damage, and a homeowner may need to file an insurance claim. Using a qualified roofing contractor and reviewing your policy is important before making any decisions.
An experienced roofer can work with an insurance adjuster to help spot legitimate storm damage that might be missed. A good roofer can also avoid the following mistakes.
Not Having the Right Materials
When homeowners decide to tackle a roofing job, they want to pick high-quality supplies that will hold up well and shield their houses from bad weather. However, there are situations when homeowners need more supplies, which can result in later, more expensive repairs.
One common mistake is using inferior shingles. It’s important to use shingles that match the thickness and quality of the existing shingles. This helps ensure that the new shingles offer the same protection as the old ones. Another mistake is failing to include a ridge cap. This specialty shingle is designed to withstand harsh wind and offers extra protection to the roof deck and home interior.
Finally, improper flashing installation can be a serious issue. If flashing is misaligned, overlapped, or not sealed properly, water can enter the roof, causing severe damage. High-qualityUtilizing high-quality flashing and ensuring it is properly filled with bituminous mastic are the best ways to prevent this.
Not Having the Right Roofing Contractor
Most Florida residents don’t bat an eye when a hurricane forms in the Atlantic or Gulf, stocking emergency boxes with food, water and candles, tying down lawn furniture and taping or covering windows. However, They often overlook their home’s roof, which can suffer serious damage in a storm.
A metal roof is one of the most resilient, but only if properly designed. It should be engineered to comply with local building codes that consider hurricane wind speeds, and it’s best to work with a roofing manufacturer that offers engineering services on all projects.
In the wake of a disaster, picking a roofing contractor with expertise in managing insurance claims and recognizing hail damage is crucial. This may save homeowners a lot of hassle and money in the long term. Additionally, it may determine whether their insurance company decides to replace or repair their roof. Homeowners would hate to have their insurance claim rejected due to an improperly built or maintained roof.
Not Having the Right Inspection
Often, hurricane damage to roofs could be more obvious and needs to be carefully inspected. Water leaks in your home’s ceiling and other areas may be easily noticed, but structural damage is only sometimes visible.
For example, the wooden rafters supporting the roof might look fine, but if they seem twisted or moist, you must call a roofer immediately. Even a small area of discoloration can lead to serious structural damage to your house.
Hiring a professional installer from a local roof company who understands Florida’s building codes and insurance laws is essential. Avoid hiring storm chasers who work here for a year and leave for the next hurricane or a roofer who gives you a lifetime labor warranty but doesn’t follow through. These roofers need to gain the expertise to do a thorough inspection and won’t help you get your insurance claim approved. It’s best to hire a company that has restored homes after multiple hurricanes.
Not Having the Right Repairs
It’s important to get the right repairs when repairing your roof after a hurricane or tropical storm. This includes using the same thickness and material that your roof originally had. Using the same color shingles or at least a close match is also important.
Another mistake is putting too much faith in their homeowner’s insurance. Homeowners’ insurance won’t cover damage caused by a lack of maintenance, so you should always perform regular maintenance on your roof.
Knowing your homeowner’s insurance policy is crucial if you’re in Florida or any state with frequent tropical storms and hurricanes. Understanding how your roof is covered will help you feel confident if a disaster occurs and give you peace of mind when choosing the right roofing contractor for your home. Make sure to choose a local roofing company that has been here years before the storm and will still be here years after, as well as one that follows up on workmanship warranties.
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