Ask a Professional

How do you know if you need a new roof or just a repair? Here are some tips to help you answer that question.

If you are concerned about the quality of your roof, spring is the best to do check because winter damage is fresh and easier to see. First, do a visual check from the outside. Look for obvious damage such as:

missing shingles

cracked tiles

warped or gapping wood shakes

Asphalt roof homeowners should look for thin, weather-worn shingles. If possible, try to feel the roof to check for dry or brittle shingles. Asphalt shingles tend to lose their protective inner oils over time, which can result in a roof leak.

Homeowners with wooden shakes and shingles should be on the lookout for very dry, cracked or warped shingles. If ignored, damaged shakes and shingles can be torn off by high winds, resulting in a roof leak.

Second, look closely at the roof line to see if it is perfectly horizontal. If you notice a sag, call Bay Area Re-Roofing at 650-593-0116 immediately. It is possible that you may have a structural problem as a result of a prolonged roof leak.

Third, be sure to inspect your attic for water stains, as damage is not always visible from the outside. Check for water stains in the rafters, sheathing, and insulation. Light passing into the attic may also be a sign of water damage.

After completing an initial check on your roof, call Bay Area Re-Roofing for a complete and thorough free estimate, or submit a form on-line. Bay Area Re-Roofing services homeowners on the Peninsula from Palo Alto to South San Francisco.