How to put off a mid-winter repair bill with some fall roof work in the Mid-Atlantic
The last storm has left you with an odd number of shingles? You may be concerned that what is now a minor attic leak will become something more when the cold sets in. Or perhaps you would like to sidestep an unanticipated expense come January.
Homeowners in the Mid-Atlantic are apt to ask themselves these things in the autumn, and they have their reasons. We at BulletpROOF Exteriors LLC have been putting our experience to work for people in MD, PA and WV to see their homes are protected, going back to 2018. For a no-nonsense assessment of your roof, give us a ring on (704)-396-5381 and we will set you straight.
The case for doing your roof work in the fall
It is a quiet time for roofs in the fall, yet the most sensible period for repairs. Consider why:
In this part of the country winter can be unforgiving. The combination of ice, snow, freezing rain and temperatures that do not stay put will test your flashing and shingles. What is a small matter in October is likely to be a headache by December once the ice comes.
Fall offers up some mild and dry days for our crews to work in and for the materials to seal as they should, without having to make haste before a snowstorm. Tending to it before the first hard freeze nips any costly issues in the bud.
What waiting can cost you
Too often we see homeowners put it off until there is water in the living room. The damage is then done and has usually gone past the roof.
A repair left too long will result in any of the following:
- Rot and staining in the ceiling or attic
- Insulation that is so wet it can no longer insulate
- Your heating bills running up over the course of the winter
- Drywall and finishes inside the home being compromised
- The growth of mold and mildew
- Ice dams to force their way under the roof deck and loosen shingles
All of which add up to more than the initial problem. In the depths of winter a full repair is rarely as inexpensive as a patch job done in the fall.
Ice dams and how to prevent them
These are among the worst of the winter threats in our area. Heat makes its way out of the attic and into the snow, only to refreeze at the eaves; eventually the ice works its way under the shingles and into the house.
You can put a stop to it though. See to any worn shingles, ventilation or flashing in the fall and you keep the heat and water where they ought to be. A sound, well sealed roof does not invite an ice dam.
An added benefit: lower energy bills
Your roof is not just for keeping the rain at bay, it is what keeps the heat in. With poor ventilation or a few shingles short, warm air is lost and the furnace has to work overtime.
Repairing such weak spots in the fall is also a way to plug an energy leak. You will see the return on that repair in your heating bill month in and month out whenever the mercury falls.
Our inspection process
We do not just look at the shingles on top. When you get in touch with us we will be checking the condition of the shingles, including any that have curled or are missing. We examine the flashing in the valleys and around the chimney and vents, make sure the gutters and downspouts are draining, and inspect the attic for moisture and adequate ventilation. We will be on the lookout for soft or sagging in the deck and check the seals on skylights.
The idea is to spot these things early. An hour or so with us in October will spare you a protracted and expensive fix down the road.
BulletpROOF Exteriors: what to expect
With a 5.0 star rating from more than 230 Google reviews, we have made a name for ourselves. We are fully licensed and insured and offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee so there is no question the work will be done properly.
Roof trouble does not observe business hours, so we are here 24/7. Have an urgent matter after a storm or want to plan an inspection for the fall, we will be there.
There is no need to let the first snow tell you the roof is not up to it. Some attention now will leave your home and your wallet better off through the winter.
To put your mind at ease and have a free estimate, call BulletpROOF Exteriors LLC at (704)-396-5381.