Welcome to Family Roofing

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At Family Roofing, we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

 

HOW TO RECOGNIZE ROOF DAMAGE

If you haven’t inspected your roof in a while, you might have some underlying roof damage left to be discovered.  That just means more extensive and expensive repairs in your future.  As a homeowner, it’s your job to maintain and keep a close eye on your home.  You should be watching for leaks, higher-than-usual energy bills, or other small issues that can turn into significant repairs.

Loss of Granules

Granules are the small, pebble-like stones on top of your shingles.  They protect your roof from UV rays and also add color to your roof.  If you start to see granules in your gutters or downspouts, it’s an indication that they’re coming off of your roof and you may have roof damage.

Missing or Blown-Off Shingles

Shingles can be blown off for a number of reasons— from severe weather to high winds to just being worn out. If you see any loose, broken, or missing shingles on your roof, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible to prevent further roof damage and leaks.

Cracked Shingles

When large debris or hail hits your roof, it can hit with enough force to crack your shingles right down the middle.  This crack can allow water to seep through and begin to spread into your roof or attic causing water damage and mold growth.

Low spots & soft spots

While this is not always the case with damaged roof decking, sometimes you can spot low or soft spots from the ground.  Soft spots are a clear sign that there could be some possible damage you need to address.  If you stand on the ground and you see a small dip in your roof you have a few options:

• Take a look inside of your addict with a flashlight and see what you find.  If you see a leak, sag, or dark colors on your roof’s decking (plywood), then you may have a serious roof leak to address.

• Have a roofing company come inspect your roof for you.  Don’t pay for this, simply call a professional roofer and let them know you might have a possible leak.  We do not recommend ever getting on your roof by yourself, or at all for that matter.

Missing or Damaged Flashing

Flashing is installed around skylights, chimneys, dormers, etc., and ensures the ends of your roof where it meets a wall or component stay leak-free and provides a waterproof seal.  It’s also one of the most susceptible spots on your roof for damage.  If you notice damaged flashing anywhere, you may want to tarp the area to prevent leaks and also check the interior of your home for any immediate water leaks.

Flashing is the black, thin material that is applied to areas that stick out of a roof where they meet your roof’s shingles.  Think of a chimney sticking out or where one townhouse roof meets another.  In those areas, flashing would be installed to prevent leaks.  In any case, if the flashing gets loosened or is cracking, this is technically a form of roofing damage that will need to be addressed.

Curled Shingles

Older roofs can end up with curled shingles.  Shingles can also curl if they were not properly ventilated when your roof was installed.  This roof damage can eventually lead to cracked and missing shingles as well.

Dented Roof Vents or Plumbing Boots

Roof vents and plumbing boots are also susceptible to being hit by large pieces of debris or hail.  If you notice any roof damage like this, it’s important to check for leaks inside your home as well.

Moss or Algae Growth

Wood, asphalt, and concrete tile roofs are susceptible to moss or algae growth if left untouched or poorly maintained.  Moss or algae growth can eat away at your shingles and create even more problems for you down the road, such as water leaks, mold, rot, etc.  Therefore, it’s critical to get your roof assessed at the first sign of this type of damage.

Pooling Water or Sagging

These are both signs of a serious roof issue, and you’ll want to call a roofing professional right away.  If you notice any sagging in your roof or pooling water, it’s an indication that there is a lot of water weight on your roof which could lead to collapse.

Mold or Mildew in the Attic

Mold growth in your attic can be caused by a roof leak that’s been there for a while.  Living in a home with mold or mildew can be very hazardous, especially for people with respiratory issues like asthma.  It’s vital you get both your roof and the attic wood or insulation replaced as soon as possible to clear the air and avoid further damage.

Roof repairs should happen when:

• Only a few shingles are damaged

• One section of flashing is damaged

• There is one small leak into the attic

• Your roof is only a few years old

Roof replacement might be required when:

• Damage is extensive and applies to over 30% of the roof.

• Your roof is over 20 years old (or 15 depending on the material)

• You have structural damage to your roof

• Your warranties or insurance will cover a total roof replacement.