Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or newly learning what it looks like to own a home, addressing roof repairs is sure to spur up a hint of dread. A roof to a home is often overlooked; it’s sort of just there.

That is, until you discover there’s damage to be repaired. Not knowing how to repair your roof or even to assess if it needs to be repaired can lead to a lot of worry for a homeowner. At Academy Roofing, we don’t want you to live with this sort of homeowner anxiety. That’s why we put together these roof-repair how-to’s and need-to-know’s, so that you might be a little more informed, and sleep with a great deal more peace at night.

How To Know When It’s Time for Roof Repairs

The average lifespan of a roof in Colorado is between 15-30 years, taking into consideration things like the weather your roof endured last season, the design and slope of your roof, and what material your roof is made of. A variety of combinations of these factors will affect your roof’s lifespan.

It’s important to have your roof inspected and certified periodically by a licensed roofing contractor. Typically the roof of a home is inspected at the time of purchase, though if you are unsure if that happened or when the last time your roof was inspected, it’s wise to schedule an inspection. With Academy Roofing, once we’ve inspected your roof and determined there are no roof repairs required, you’ll receive a roof certification. A roof certification from Academy Roofing is good for 2-5 years and offers peace of mind that your roof is safe and secure.

Though it wouldn’t hurt to have your roof inspected for safe measures, there are a few signs you can safely be on the lookout for to be sure if it’s time for that inspection.

Leaks in your home. This is a clear sign that the integrity of your roof has been compromised.
Shingles or other roofing materials in your yard. Chances are those bits of roofing materials are supposed to be on your roof. This is a sign that your roof has worn, and that there may be damage you can’t see.
Visible curling of roofing shingles. From the ground, if you can see your shingles are no longer flat but are curling up like bacon on the stove, it’s time to call a roofer.

What to Expect During Your Roof Repairs

Determining whether roof repairs are necessary is only the first step of the process. You’ll want to find a licensed roofing contractor you can trust. You’ll need to decide when to have the repairs completed. And, you’ll probably want to know what to expect on repair day.

Finding a Licensed Roofing Contractor

In Colorado, roofers are plenty, so it’s important to know how to spot one with your best interests in mind. Homeowners can easily be manipulated by roofing scammers simply because they don’t know what to watch out for. You can check out a full guide on avoiding these con-artists, but here are a few things you should be aware of.

Check for licensing and insurance. All reputable roofing contractors will be happy to provide you with copies of their license and insurance. If a potential roofer will not, look elsewhere.
Ask for referrals. A licensed roofer will be happy to provide examples of their quality work. Ask for them, and make sure you have the right roofer.
Get more than one bid. Your roof is an investment. The cheapest option may not always be the best one.
Call Academy Roofing. We are proud members of the Colorado Roofing Association, and are abundantly qualified to provide quality roofing repairs and replacements.

Choosing the Right Time for the Repairs

If your roof repair is not urgent, or if you’re scheduling a time to replace the whole thing, completing your repairs in the fall is ideal. Colorado summers bring with them high temperatures, heavy rain, and hail, while Colorado winters bring cold, snow, and ice. The fall, though a bit chilly, is the best time to repair the roof damage from summer, and prepare your roof for the intensity of winter.

Understanding the Roof Repair Process

The process of roof repairs varies depending on the severity of the damage. If the issue was caught in time, the damage could be minor and take your roofing contractor only a couple of hours to fix. If the damage is extensive, however, and your roof needs to be completely replaced, the process is a bit more lengthy. Below is the process you can expect during the replacement of your roof.

Complete the inspection and plan for repairs. Your roofing contractor will discuss with you the best route for repairing your roof.
Materials will arrive. If you have only minor damage, your contractor will bring materials with them. If it’s a full roof replacement materials will arrive at your house before the repair date.
The contractor will arrive and set up. This looks like moving your vehicles safely out of the way, setting up harnesses, and preparing your home for the removal of the old roof.
Your old roof will be torn off. At this point, the old roofing materials will be completely removed from your roof. Your gutters will also be cleared of any collected debris.
The new roof will be installed. New flashing, vent boots, and shingles will be installed systematically at this stage. Like a well-oiled machine, it’s a site to see.
Clean-up will occur and work will be inspected. Your property will be restored to its former condition and your contractor will confirm a quality installation.

So You’re Feeling Better About Those Roof Repairs

Your roof is important. It protects you and your loved ones from harm. The condition of such a vital asset to your home should not be a cause of stress or worry to you and your family. Academy Roofing is a Colorado roofing company you can rely on. Count on us to make sure your roof is in good shape and schedule a roof inspection today.