Heavy rain, intense winds, and golf-ball sized hail are all just another day during hurricane season in Florida. While it can take a lot for storm damage in Orlando to rattle the savvy homeowner, some destruction is simply irreparable. The occasional leak may be nothing to worry about, but what if it keeps coming back? Here are three tips for knowing when it’s time to cut your losses and replace your roof altogether.
1. Major Leaks
If you have asphalt shingles or tile, it can be easy for water to work its way in between the cracks over time and find its way into your house. Small, obvious leaks are easy for your local contractor to repair, but hidden ones can be a different story. Less obvious water damage can seep down inside the walls of a house, often without the homeowner even knowing it, and make roof replacement a priority. Roof inspections in Orlando after a storm are a great way to ensure all water stays out and spare you from hefty replacement costs.
2. Damaged or Missing Shingles
Unless you have a metal roof, you’ll need to check for missing pieces. Tile is incredibly durable, but even it can take a hit from a severe hailstorm. Shingles are the most susceptible to damage. After a storm rolls through, check your roof for any missing shingles or tiles. If only one or two are damaged or missing, they can be easily replaced. For large sections of missing pieces, however, it may be more cost-effective to install a new roof altogether, especially if the rest of the roof is showing signs of wear.
3. Poor Performance
Even if your roof hasn’t been hit by storm damage, you may still notice it working less efficiently over time. Depending on when it was installed, there may be better insulation options available today. In fact, one of the best ways to improve the efficiency in your home is to install a metal roof and keep out the majority of the sun’s rays. If your roof is letting too much hot air inside, you may benefit from replacing your existing roof with a new metal model.
For more assistance choosing between Orlando roof repair and replacement, call your local contractor.
