A roof is one of those things that you don’t really think about until there is a problem. And when that problem happens, it can be devastating.
Your roof protects not only your home, but everything and everyone it contains. When it fails, the consequences can be catastrophic. After all, what can you do when a tree falls onto your home in the middle of the night? It can be a scary time.
While you can’t control the weather, you can educate yourself on what to do if you’re faced with a roof emergency.
What Exactly Is An Emergency Roof Repair?
When your roof is compromised, water damage can be immediate and progressively destructive not just to the roof, but the structure itself. To minimize further damage, the source of the problem must be addressed immediately.
Typically, emergency roof repairs involve using tarp or other methods to cover the compromised area to divert water away from the damage, safely away from the home. This gives the roof contractor time to a) allow the weather event to pass, b) Give the contractor time to properly assess and repair the damage (especially during busy times) and/or c) allow the homeowner time to consider their options.
What Happens When I Call A Roof Contractor For An Emergency Repair?
Some roof contractors (like Atlanta Roofing Specialists) are able to offer 24/7 Emergency Roof Repair services. Even if you are woken in the middle of the night by a tree falling into your bedroom, you can have an emergency repair crew at your home, in most cases, the same day!
When you call for an emergency roof repair, the roof contractor will gather as much information as possible and come out there with the materials needed to stop additional damage caused by the problem. They will then schedule a formal estimate and repair to be performed at a later date.
Of course, safety is the priority not only for the homeowner but the repair crews. So in instances such as heavy storms, safety considerations must be weighed and waiting until the danger to pass is often the best course of action. Once deemed safe, temporary repairs are made and a formal inspection is scheduled.
What Can I Do While I Wait For The Emergency Roof Repair Crew?
The first thing to do is don’t overreact to the situation. A roof failure can be a devastating thing. You may be tempted to attempt to contain the damage yourself or worse, attempt repairs youself, DON’T!
A compromised roof can mean damage extending all the way to the foundation, including the structure itself. Without knowing the extent of the damage, even approaching a damaged area can result in collapse of the roof and surrounding structure resulting in injury or even death!
After contacting a roof contractor, stay away from the damaged area. The damage has been done, there is nothing more you can do. Don’t panic and get your insurance agent on the phone. Being proactive can take your mind off the damage and give you a sense of accomplishment that this too shall pass.
Be patient. Especially during storms, these things take time. Roofing scams are at their peak after storms and prey on impatient homeowners. Do your homework on EVERY roof contractor (even the ones recommended by your insurance company) to ensure you don’t make the problem worse.
So, if you’re faced with a roof emergency, take a breath, call a roof contractor and your insurance agent and let the professionals handle it. It’s what they do.
In Metro Atlanta, Atlanta Roofing Specialists offers 24/7 Emergency Roof Repair Services. Call 770-419-2222 for a free estimate or for emergency repairs today!