ROOF EMERGENCIES - How to Handle Them Now

I see roof emergencies all the time and for all sorts of reasons so this week we're going to talk about how to handle them because regardless of the current health crisis, we all still need a solid roof over our head.

What qualifies as an emergency roofing repair?
Once a roofing system is compromised, it will allow water infiltration. A quick roof repair or protective cover must be installed to stop further interior and structural damage. In most cases, we will emergency tarp the hole in the roof or damaged area until the weather system passes and we can assess damage and perform a permanent roof repair.

What Causes Roof Damage Most?
In most instances, the roofing system was compromised due to a weather event like snow, rain, wind or lightning.
For example, winds that exceed 80 km h have the force to tear shingles from the roof and expose the substrate. Trees limbs can be torn off trees and penetrate the structure. Lightning can strike and literally blow a hole through the roof.
Animals are also a source of roof emergencies.  Raccoons and squirrels love to chew through rotted wood and create sizable holes in the roof. 
Another common reason for roof damage is that the roof has broken down over time, lost its integrity and no longer is properly sealing the structure.

What Happens When Roofers Get a Call for Emergency Repairs?
If it’s in the middle of a storm, we will wait until the storm subsides and then mobilize in a quick fashion. Safety for my workers is my first priority. There's often nothing we can reasonably do when there's high wind, heavy rain and lightning during a storm. However we will come out immediately when able and as mentioned above either perform an emergency tarping or perform the repair if we are able to upon arrival.

What Should I Do About the Roof Damage?
First of all I cannot stress this enough: Don’t panic. The damage to the roof is already done. Contact your insurance provider and a professional roofing contractor to help immediately. Take your time to consider your repair or replacement options once a contractor has secured the roof and protected your home from further damage.

Do NOT attempt to repair the roof on your own. There’s too much risk of being injured, and a homeowner will not properly assess the actual damage.

REMEMBER: Roofs and ceilings can be repaired easily, broken bones cannot. Document your loss and damages, in writing and with photos when necessary and if possible.

Final Thoughts
We are in a challenging time as a community here in Niagara and across the world but emergencies still can happen.

If you need advice or information about a current roofing emergency for your home or business my team and I at Class EH! Roofing would be glad to assist you in any way we can.

We have 24-7 emergency service, are highly qualified and insured and offer peace of mind with our experienced staff and free estimates. Call us now at: 289-687-6924 or fill out the form below.  Stay safe and stay well everyone!