You suspect that your roof has water damage, but are not sure. What are some steps you can take to make an informed decision? Water damage demands immediate action, not calculated guesses. In addition, finding a roof leak can be problematic because the signs may indicate one location when the actual leak is in another location. Not only can roof leaks cause structural damage to your home, un-repaired leaks can lead to mold and mildew which, in turn, can cause health problems.

Indoor & Outdoor Inspection
An outdoor and indoor inspection can help you find problem areas before they become leaks. Check the fascia and exterior walls, usually at the seams. Missing or damaged shingles which may be curled, cracked or torn, can be repaired if it covers less than 30% of the entire roof. Look for curling, loss of granulation, mold or decay. Learning the basics about your roofing material can help you spot damage.
During the indoor inspection, look for:

• Moisture marks
• Brown, yellow, or grey stains
• Peeling paint on walls or ceilings
• Damp rafters.
• The presence of mold and mildew can cause an odor and/or block spots. Some drywall materials actually soak up water like a sponge.

If you have a sudden surge in energy costs, that could indicate your roof ventilation has problems.

Flashings
According to dryhome.com, 90% of all leaks happen at flashings. Flashings are easily repaired or replaced, so check around chimneys, vents, skylights, wall/roof junctions, antennas and satellite dishes. Chimney flashings settle independently from the house which causes tearing. These should be checked regularly during a roof inspection and gutter cleaning.

Gutters
Decay or rust on gutters, leaky seams, bent or sagging or missing sections of gutter or downspout can cause inadequate drainage. Clogged gutters can freeze shut in winter which causes excessive weight on fasteners and ice dam conditions.

Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential for long roof life. Blocked ventilation can cause heat and moisture to build up in an attic, causing rafters and sheathing to rot, shingles to buckle and insulation to be ineffective. The NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association) recommends a minimum of 1 square foot of free vent area for each 150 square feet of attic floor, with vents placed proportionately at the eaves and at or near the ridge.

Water Stains
Water stains are always an indication that there is a roof leak. Finding the exact location of the leak may be difficult due to the fact that water can enter the roof at one point but then runs down to the location of the leak. Or the leak is higher up but the water soaks into the ceiling at another point farther down the roof. In addition, some stains may be difficult to see because they occur in hidden or dark corners. Upon finding a discoloration or water stain on the ceiling or walls, investigate further for mold or mildew.

Drips
Drips also indicate a roof leak, even if it goes away. Ice dams are caused by freezing and thawing of melted snow and ice which has moved under the shingles and then freezes again. This blocks proper drainage into the gutters. Gutters and downspouts which are not keep free of debris will cause water to back up under the roof shingles.

Trees & Bushes
Trees and bushes can cause moss and algae to grown on shingles and shakes, causing rot and deterioration. They can also scratch and/or gouge the roof, and falling branches can damage or puncture shingles or other roofing material. Trimming trees and bushes away from the home will lessen dampness and keep debris from the roof and gutters.

Finding roof damage before a leak appears is always a homeowners first choice. A professional roof inspection can save homeowners thousands of dollars by spotting minor damage. Keeping the roof in good condition by regular inspections and replacing missing or torn shingles and replacing torn flashing is a priority. Repairing a roof without water damage will save the homeowner time and money. In addition, a trained roofing professional has the tools and techniques to check your roof safely.

According to Angie's List, there are six signs which indicate it's time to call in a professional:

1. Excessive granule loss
2. Loose or missing shingles
3. Water stains on roof decking
4. Shingle pops (Shingles that appear to rise above the flat surface of the rest of the roof)
5. Cracked, loose or worn flashing or gaskets around protrusions like vent stacks and chimneys
6. Roof age

Suspected roof leaks should not be ignored. Delaying action on a roof leak can cause extensive damage to your entire home, including the ceiling, walls, and even the foundation. Because water damage can manifest itself in many different ways and locations, it is important to know where and what to look for when it comes to identifying water damage.

Harper Roofing offers a free roof inspection in the Charleston area. We will inspect your roof and give you an honest assessment of what is needed.We are a preferred contractor with The Better Business Bureau, carrying an A+ rating. We have a long history of satisfied customers, including a 5 star rating on Houzz.
If you found this information helpful click "Like" or "Share" below and post this to your social media pages. Your "Likes" and "Shares" help others like you find the information they need.
We are happy for you to re-publish this article on your website or in your company newsletter with credit to Harper Roofing Charleston as the author and a link to our website http://www.harperroofingcharleston.com, The URL for this article is http://www.harperroofingcharleston.com/harper-roofing-charleston-blog/signs-your-roof-has-sustained-water-damage. Email us with any questions.

​Sources Cited:
www.dryhome.com
www.angieslist.com
www.resolvebylowes.com
www.huffingtonpost.com
www.harryhelmet.com

If you could choose a season to replace your roof, which season would you choose? Is there a season that is better than the other? Weather permitting, most roofing contractors work the year round so why would the season make a difference? Well, believe it or not, there are some common sense reasons why one season is better than the others, especially in terms of cost, labor, and material availability.

Slow Season vs. Busy Season
Many homeowners will wait until they must replace their roof. Roofing contractors often have a busy and a slow season. Many roofers adjust their labor fees based on their work load so keep in mind that during slow times you may be able to negotiate a better price. You also will not have to wait weeks to get your project started, and very often the quality of the installation is higher. This makes it important that homeowners plan ahead when choosing a time for roof replacement. Late summer and early fall are typically the busiest times for roofing contractors. It may get so busy that homeowners may have to wait up to a month to get their project started. This will also impact labor and material prices. Another factor to consider is the quality of installation. Poor workmanship can happen when a roofing contractor is too busy. Spring and summer are also busy times of year for roof replacement. During the spring, construction trades pick up and suppliers may increase their prices. If your area experiences more rain in the spring or summer, this may impact your roof replacement. High temperatures and humidity can make it unpleasant for roofers which can impact the quality of installation. It can also affect the materials by softening the asphalt in the shingles. Roofers may need to adjust the pressure in their nail guns to keep from damaging the shingles. Too much traffic on the roof during this time of year needs to be avoided in order to protect the shingles.

Geography
Geography does play an important role in choosing when to have your roof replaced. Manufacturer specifications need to be followed in terms of weather and temperature conditions in order to achieve optimal performance. Asphalt shingles should be installed when the temperature is 40 F degrees or higher. If not, shingles can crack during installation, sealants won't apply effectively and will take longer to adhere. The tools roofers use many not work efficiently in cold temperatures.

Southern Climates
In mild climates, such as the climate in Charleston, SC,  late fall or winter can be the perfect time to replace your roof. Many roofing companies are experiencing a slow time and need the work. Cooler temperatures can allow roofers to work longer hours with easier installation. The moderate weather allows shingles to seal effectively and manufacturers do not change their warranties due to temperature at time of installation. In fact, roofing material prices may be less expensive during this time of year.

So what season is best to replace your roof?
The bottom line is that in terms of cost of labor and materials and time availability, late fall and winter win the contest. In all circumstances, however, planning ahead is important. Get more than one quote from licensed and insured roofing professionals.

Harper Roofing offers a free roof inspection> which will keep you informed of your roof's condition and lifespan. We have a long history of satisfied customers, including a 5 star rating on Houzz>. We are a preferred contractor with The Better Business Bureau, carrying an A+ rating.

​If you found this information helpful click "Like" or "Share" below and post this to your social media pages. Your "Likes" and "Shares" help others like you find the information they need.
We are happy for you to re-publish this article on your website or in your company newsletter with credit to Harper Roofing Charleston as the author and a link to our website http://www.harperroofingcharleston.com/. The URL for this article is http://www.harperroofingcharleston.com/blog/what-season-is-best-for-replacing-my-roof. Email us with any questions.

Most homeowners know they need their roof replaced when they see a leak in their ceiling or experience a weather event which damages their roof. However, there are many other signs to look for when deciding whether or not to replace your existing roof. Keep in mind that by delaying too long, more extensive damage may have occurred to your roof's structure and attic, costing more than just a roof replacement.

Roofing contractors agree that regular inspection and repairs, as needed, can prevent the need for more costly repairs in the future.

So how do you know when it's time?

Roofing material is a major factor in determining if it is time for a new roof.
As a rule:
Cedar: Cedar roofs will split and fall apart in dry climates. They can become mossy in moist climates. Their lifespan is about 20 years. 
Tile: Tile roofs can last up to 100 years, but individual times can break and need to be replaced by a specialist.
Concrete: Concrete roofs should never need replacing. 
Wooden Shakes: Watch out for damage from termites, carpenter ants and other wood-boring insects.

Here are some signs to look for with asphalt shingle roofs:

• Roof age

The typical roof will last, according to experts, between 20 and 25 years. Factors such as, whether or not you have several layers of shingles, the age of these layers, and whether or not your roof has been properly ventilated, all determine whether or not a roof replacement is needed.

• The Condition of the Shingles Curling or buckling shingles are aging signs that you may need a new roof.

These can also indicate excessive heat or defective shingles. Curling or buckling shingles may become rigid, break easily, or be damaged by the wind uplift or ice buildup. Roof age or poorly installed underlayment are common causes for curling or buckling shingles.
Check your gutters for shingle granules. Aging shingles tend to lose their granules, indicated by inconsistent or darker color on parts of the roof. In addition, poor water drainage on a second story can cause granules to be washed away over time. Loss of these protective granules can cause the shingle to harden from heat and sun.

• Broken or Missing Shingles

Check your roof for broken or missing shingles. These can weaken a roof's ability to shed water. High winds and physical trauma to the roof are the most common causes of missing or broken shingles.

• Algae or Moss Growth

Dark streaks can indicate airborne algae. Homeowners often will use a high pressure water hose to remove this algae, causing loss of granules. Moss may grow on roof surfaces where there is less sunlight. This moss can hold moisture against the roof surface causing damage to the shingle granules.

• Roof Valleys

These are important areas of your roof because snow and rain flow through valleys into your gutters. If shingles are damaged or missing in these areas, the chances are high you need a roof replacement.

• Flashings

Flashings are located around skylights, valleys, eaves, rakes, wall details, stacks and chimneys. Water can enter when these flashings lift or separate, causing fasteners to loosen.

• Attics

Check your attic for daylight through the roof boards, signs of water damage or leaking, or dark spots and trails. A spongy feel or bounce when walking on the roof may mean the underlying decking is weakened from moisture.

• Gutters and Downspouts

Examine gutters and downspouts to make sure they are attached securely and are free of debris. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends a roof inspection at least twice a year, spring and fall. Waiting until water is falling down from a leak can cost you more than just a roof replacement.

Harper Roofing offers a free professional roof inspection at your convenience, and will give you an honest assessment of your roof's condition. Check out our 5-star rating on Houzz and our A+ rating with The Better Business Bureau.

If you found this information helpful click "Like" or "Share" below and post this to your social media pages. Your "Likes" and "Shares" help others like you find the information they need.
We are happy for you to re-publish this article on your website or in your company newsletter with credit to Harper Roofing Charleston as the author and a link to our website www.HarperRoofingCharleston.com/. The URL for this article is http://www.harperroofingcharleston.com/blog/signs-my-roof-needs-replaced. Email us with any questions.

 A leaky roof is serious business because, if left unattended, it can cause major damage to your home. In addition, the sooner a leak is attended to, the less chance of more expensive repairs down the road. According to fixr.com, minor leaks can lead to damage such as mold, rotted framing and sheathing, damaged insulation and ceilings. Some of the most common causes of a leaky roof are broken shingles, cracked vent booting or flashing, gutters that are clogged, condensation in the attic or a cracked chimney. Some leaks can be difficult to find. Hiring a professional to do a thorough roof inspection is important, especially after a severe weather event.

A roofing contractor usually charges around $3 per square foot for leak repair or $45 to $75 per hour. The labor hours range between 8 - 16, making the repair cost range from $360 to $1200. If your roof is steeper than average, repair costs can increase by 20% or more. This is also true if your roof has many architectural details to work around. You also may need to buy a permit from your county or homeowners association, without which you could be heavily fined. Permit fees average around $75.

REPAIR VS. REPLACEMENT?
Replacing shingles can be a relatively easy and inexpensive job. However, even if you saved some spare shingles from a previous roof replacement, this patch job will probably not match the rest of the roof. This may be a relatively small consideration if your roof is not very old and will extend its life for ten or fifteen years unless you plan to sell your home. A prominent patch can be a negative selling point.

If the damage is confined to one side of the roof, a partial re-roofing can cost thousands of dollars less than an entire replacement. This can make the color differences less noticeable. Partial re-roofing can be more expensive on a cost per square than a total replacement and all layers will need to be removed. This can add to the cost and result in a lopsided effect due to the old roof being a couple of inches higher than the new side.

According to Angieslist.com, the determining factors on whether to fix or replace your roof are the following:

• ROOF AGE - Most roofs will last between 20 and 25 years, depending on whether you have one or more layers of shingles and the ventilation.
• SHINGLES CURLING /BUCKLING - Curling shingles that are losing granules indicate they need to be replaced. It could also mean the roof is defective.
• ROOF VALLEYS - Missing or damaged shingles in the roof valleys is a sign a roof replacement is needed.
• MISSING SHINGLES/ SHINGLE GRANULES IN THE GUTTERS - These are signs your roof is failing. Lost granules indicate shingles are at the end of their life cycle. Darker color on parts of the roof is also a sign granules are wearing away.
• ROOF BOARDS SHOWING DAYLIGHT - Daylight showing through the roof boards, a spongy feel when walking on the roof, or moisture in the insulation are all indications a new roof is needed.

Even if only part of your roof is showing damage or wear, it may be smart to consider roof replacement. The roofing contractor and crew will already be on-site with scaffolding, ladders, and other equipment. Replacing the entire roof with most likely be less expensive than doing one side now and the other in a few years.

According to bobvila.com, if you do decide to replace your roof, choosing to tear off the old roof or install the new roof over the existing one is another decision you will have to make. Installing the new roof over the existing one will save you a little money now but runs the risk of greater expenses in the future. The International Residential Code (R907.3) states that a new roof cannot be installed over two or more applications of any type of roof covering. Much of this has to do with the weight on the structure of your home. Covering a roof with 1,500 square feet of shingles is almost equal to the weight of a two-ton SUV. Removing the old shingles will allow you to inspect the roof deck and sheathing for damage, plus the shingles adhere better if fastened directly to the roof deck. This will also allow you to check for wood rot and the presence of inadequate sheathing fasteners. Additionally, starting with an undamaged roof deck allows you the option of adding an ice-and-water shield membrane along the eaves.

Having your roof inspected every one to two years is a good way to protect your roof from potential problems. Having your roof inspected after any severe weather event will also catch any damage before it becomes even more extensive.

Harper Roofing offers a free, no obligation roof inspection in the Charleston area. We will show up on time and give an honest assessment on the condition of your roof.

If you found this information helpful click "Like" or "Share" below and post this to your social media pages. Your "Likes" and "Shares" help others like you find the information they need.
We are happy for you to re-publish this article on your website or in your company newsletter with credit to, Harper Roofing Charleston as the author and a link to our website http://www.harperroofingcharleston.com/. The URL for this article is http://www.harperroofingcharleston.com/blog/what-to-do-if-you-have-a-leaky-roof. Email us with any questions.