Your roof is exposed to the elements and it does a stellar job keeping the weather out and protecting your property. However, if yours is showing signs of wear, the quicker you address roof repairs, the better off you will be. If you ignore issues now, they will only worsen and potentially, cost thousands of dollars more.
Not every roof issue is obvious, and these are the dangerous ones that can become costly. It’s a good idea to carry out interior and exterior inspections after inclement weather to look for signs of damage or disrepair.
5 Signs You Need a Roof Repair
1. Leaks/Water Stains
Leaks are the first sign of a roofing issue and the areas where water damage first appears are likely to be the walls and ceilings. If you notice a damp spot or discolouration, it’s a clear sign of a roof leak and could indicate serious hidden damage.
2. Missing or Damaged Roof Tiles
If you notice cracked, chipped, broken or curled roof tiles, this is something to immediately address. If one link in the chain is damaged (or missing), it disrupts the rest of the structure’s ability to protect your home. This is something to look out for after high winds, storms, or other extreme weather events.
3. Sagging Roof Deck
If you can see sags in the roof deck, you are dealing with structural issues caused by long-term wear or water damage. Either way, it’s a serious issue and you cannot delay, contact a roofing specialist immediately.
4. Visible Cracks or Gaps in the Mortar
Cracks or gaps in the mortar joints are a clear sign your roof may need repointing. Over time, weather exposure can cause the mortar to break down, leaving visible gaps where it has fallen out or deteriorated. This weakens the roof’s structure and its ability to protect your home, making repairs essential.
5. Algae, Moss, or Lichen Growth
Excessive growth of algae, moss, or lichen on your roof can trap moisture against the mortar, accelerating its deterioration. If your roof has a significant amount of organic growth, it may be time to inspect and repoint the mortar.
When To Call a Professional
If you have significant structural damage like a severe leak, large areas of missing roof tiles, or a sagging roof, whether from normal wear and tear or damage caused by storms or fallen trees, you need to call a roofing professional as quickly as possible. Some homeowners may be able to DIY a single roof tile, but attempting to repair significant damage without a professional will only cause further complications and may render your insurance policy void.
There are difficult-to-access areas that you should almost certainly enlist a professional to inspect. Whether it’s a steep roof, heavily damaged, or there are obstacles, a professional will arrive with the expertise and equipment necessary to ensure safety.
If you have addressed minor repairs in the past and the problem returns, it’s time to consider a major overhaul. A professional can evaluate the overall condition of your roof and determine whether a repair is the most appropriate course of action or if it’s time to talk about a new roof altogether.
If you have a gutter leaking, guttering repairs should be undertaken quickly. They carry water from the roof away from your home and serve an important role in the overall roofing system, and a roof contractor can handle gutter repairs.
Why Professional Repairs Are Important
The roof is one of the most expensive items in your home to maintain, repair, and replace. However, it plays a major role in keeping your home liveable, safe, and comfortable. The initial bill may make your eyes water, but the reality is ignoring problems and letting them stack up will result in a much larger bill further down the line. Likewise, you may end up with water damage or flooding which not only destroys your things but can also undermine your home’s structural integrity.
A roofing professional will carry out a thorough inspection and make recommendations about roofing repairs or replacements and as long as you call a reputable business, you can rely on the advice they provide. As with any professional service, it’s always a good idea to get several quotes. Not only will it give you a clearer picture of what you’re dealing with, but you can weed out charlatans by checking for inconsistencies between quotes.
Cost Considerations and Benefits of Early Intervention
A minor problem like a missing tile, cracked shingle, or small leak is an affordable fix as long as you deal with it promptly. However, ignoring roofing issues can result in leaks, water damage, mould growth, and even structural damage that will cost much more to address. Early intervention is a must, not just to keep the cost down, but also to avoid serious damage. Things like replacing damaged tiles, cleaning gutters, and trimming overhanging branches are all examples of solid preventative measures, but regular inspections will also provide early warning to take action.
Addressing a minor repair now is much more cost-efficient than paying for a major repair in a year after a spate of brutal storms. Most home repair issues are cheaper if dealt with quickly, but with roof work, it’s too costly a problem to ignore. Ivy Roofing Specialists can carry out inspections, handle roofing and roof repairs, gutter replacements, emergency roof repairs, and roof maintenance in Sydney. If you need a residential or commercial roofer, give us a call.
