Roof Repair: Atlanta Roofing Contractor

Get the truth on when to get your roof repaired as opposed to getting a new roof system. Roofs beyond 15 years should not be considered for repair. Damaged or thin shingles have little to no wear protection available.
Homeowners have been mislead for many years by roofing contractors. Leak and roof repairs have declined due to the economy for roofers need to earn more money. They will often tell the customer that the roof is not repairable in hopes of getting a new roof installation. This may be true in some instances, but most roof systems can be repaired by a qualified roofing contractor.

If the shingles on your home are less than 15 years old, then there is a good chance that the roof can be repaired. Asphalt shingles are designed to last a minimum of 25 years. With that being the case, it is easy to see how a roof 15 years old can be repaired. The roofing technician and his skill set is going to be the defining factor.

In addition, many of these roofing contractors will not expose themselves with the liability of a roof repair on a roof over 10 years old. The contractor understands that the repairs will last for approximately 2 years from the date of completion. If the roof leaks prior to the end of the warranty, then they are responsible for all damages. There is a great deal of risk for a small benefit on the behalf of the roofing company.

You should not be discouraged from getting a roof repair for there is a solution. A roofing company that specializes in repairs is your best choice for getting an estimate. These Atlanta roofing contractors are usually older guys who are not physically able to install new roof systems. However, they have a vast amount of experience due to all the years of roof installations. Most of these contractors are semi retired which can reduce the cost for the roof repair.

Having the contractor to take pictures of the roof leak can be beneficial in your decision to repair your roof. Have him to remove a small portion of the material for you to inspect. If the material is thinner than a quarter, then the shingles are to worn out to be repaired. Inspect the shingle material for bubbling and blistering and if any of these are found, then your roof system has inadequate ventilation. Do not repair this roof for the shingles have massive heat damage.

Shingles that have streaking or discoloration is a roof that may or may not be a good candidate for repair. These shingles are infested with Blue Algae or a fungus. The algae and fungus will usually grow microscopic roots down into the shingles tar matting and up root the ceramic granules. The shingles become porous over a period of time. If you decide to get the roof repaired, you should get the shingles pressure washed with a Zinc chemical to kill the algae and fungus.

Getting a roof repair is a big decision and one that has a lot of variables involved. There are others but these are the major ones to consider. Also, get at least 3 estimates from qualified roofing contractors. Be sure they have a valid license, General Liability, and Workers Compensation. The roofing company should provide at least a 2 year minimum warranty on the roof repair. Last but not least, do not pay for the repair until it is water tested with a garden hose for a minimum of 30 minutes.

By Jeff Bratcher
Published: 10/21/2009
 
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