Loveland, CO, homeowners value their homes. The city is a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, and many residents ensure their homes have a good view of them.

However, Loveland is also known for somewhat unpredictable weather, meaning homeowners must maintain their homes if they want ongoing protection against the elements.

A huge part of this maintenance is roof repair and inspection. If you live in Loveland, hiring a roof repair contractor is important to ensure your roof is in top condition all year round.

 

Why Are Roof Inspections Important?

If you have owned your Loveland house for a long time, you will know that the city experiences four distinct seasons. These seasons bring hail, increasingly hot sunshine, winds, and heavy snowfall. This often leads to roof damage.

For instance, spring hailstorms can cause significant damage to flashing and shingles, leading to leaks. In the summer, the sun beating down on asphalt shingles can make them brittle and prone to cracking.

Strong winds can even dislodge weak shingles and loosen flashing in the fall. In winter, snowstorms can stress your roof's structure. The weight of snow can also create ice dams, which will cause leaks and water damage when they melt.

You may not notice minor roof issues immediately after severe weather. This is why getting your roof inspected regularly is so crucial. A roof repair contractor can inspect your roof for these minor issues and fix them before they create bigger problems.

Also, regular maintenance and repair will extend the lifespan of your roof. In the long run, this will help you avoid or at least delay an expensive replacement.

You may benefit in other ways if your roof is inspected yearly. For example, your insurance company may offer you a discounted premium if you provide proof of your roof maintenance schedule.

 

What to Expect During a Roof Inspection

A professional roof inspection involves assessing your roof's structure and components.

The inspector or contractor will check for cracked, missing, or loose roof shingles. They will also inspect the shingles' condition to see if they show signs of wear and tear.

Moreover, they will inspect the roof flashing to ensure it is properly installed and rust-free. Flashing creates a seal around vents, chimneys, and skylights, crucial for preventing leaks.

The inspector will also check for leaks and debris buildup in your roof's valleys, which are where two roof slopes meet.

Additionally, the inspector will look for rot, pest infestation, or moisture damage in the soffit (underside) of your roof overhang. These signs of damage may also be visible in the fascia (roof edge board).

Lastly, the inspector will check the vents to see if they function optimally. Proper ventilation is a must for a healthy, damage-free roof.

The inspection will include determining your roof's age, type of roofing material, and maintenance history.

 

When to Call a Roof Repair Specialist

If the inspection reveals damage, you should call a roof repair specialist. However, there are some situations in which you should not wait for an inspection before hiring a roof repair contractor.

For instance, if you notice water stains or drops on your ceiling or walls, you have a roof leak and should immediately call a professional to fix it.

If you see many missing shingles, even without getting on the roof, your home is vulnerable to water damage. This is because missing shingles expose the roof deck to weather elements like rain and hail.

More importantly, if your roof starts to sag, there is a structural issue that requires immediate attention.

 

Roof Repair Options

The type of roof repair you will ultimately pay for will depend on how severely your roof is damaged. If only a few shingles are missing, your roof contractor will replace them individually.

If your roof's flashing is badly damaged, the contractor will likely opt to replace it entirely. This will help secure a new seal around important roof components like vents and chimneys.

Should your roof leak, the repairs may range from sealing a small crack to replacing entire roof sections.

Furthermore, your roof contractor may suggest adding extra vents or improving existing ventilation to address future moisture issues.

 

Keeping Your Roof Well-Maintained

You can also prevent costly repairs by scheduling regular (annual) roof inspections and properly maintaining your roof.

This means cleaning gutters regularly, especially after rain or snowfall. It also means trimming tree branches that scrape against the roof shingles.

Lastly, it is important to check for moss growth to prevent trapped moisture and rot. Working with your roofing contractor ensures that your roof protects your home for many years. This will help protect your real estate investment and ensure your family is safe during severe weather events.