Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home or commercial building, protecting everything underneath it from the elements. While some roofing problems can wait for a scheduled inspection or repair, others could be assessed as a roofing emergency. But how do homeowners determine what roofing problems are truly an emergency?

Generally speaking, a true roofing emergency involves damage that is actively allowing water into the building, creating a safety hazard, or something that could quickly escalate to overwhelming property damage. Knowing what to look for can help you take action before a small problem becomes a costly repair.

What Makes a Roofing Problem an Emergency?

A roofing problem may be considered an emergency when it threatens the safety of its occupants.Some common roofing emergencies include active leaks, severe storm damage, structural damage and large areas of missing roofing materials.

1. Major or Active Roof Leaks

A small stain on a ceiling shouldn’t necessarily be ignored or painted over, but active water entering your home or business should be an urgent concern. If water is dripping through the ceiling, running down walls, or collecting in the attic, it’s important to address the source as soon as possible. Leaks should have this fixed quickly as possible to avoid further damage to your home or business.

Water intrusion can damage insulation, drywall, ceilings, flooring, electrical components and other areas of the building. The longer the leak continues, the greater the potential for additional damage and raising the cost of repairs.

2. Severe Storm and Weather Damage

Strong winds, hail, heavy rain and other severe weather can cause significant damage to your roof. Missing shingles, damaged flashing, punctures and other problems may leave portions of the roof exposed.

Even if you don’t notice a leak immediately following a storm, visible roof damage is a reason to have the roof professionally inspected. Some damage may not be obvious from the ground but could allow water to enter during the next rainfall.

3. A Tree or Large Branch Falls on the Roof

Fallen trees and large branches can cause serious structural and roofing damage. Even if the roof doesn’t appear to be leaking, the impact could have damaged the decking, framing or other components beneath the roofing material. Because this type of damage can also create a safety hazard, homeowners and business owners should avoid climbing onto the roof to inspect it themselves. With Bonded Applicators, you receive a well experienced team of professionals with over 75 years of experience in roofing repairs and replacements.

4. Roof Collapse or Other Significant Structural Damage

A sagging roof, collapsed section or other obvious structural problem should be treated as an emergency. These situations can pose serious safety risks to anyone inside or around the building. If you notice significant structural damage, keep people away from the affected area and seek the professionals at Bonded Applicators immediately.

5. Large Areas of Missing/Damaged Roofing

A few damaged shingles may not constitute an emergency, but extensive areas of missing shingles or other roofing materials can leave the underlying roof exposed to rain, wind and other elements.

After severe weather, it’s a good idea to check your property from the ground for obvious signs of damage and contact a professional if something looks unusual.

6. Water Coming Through the Ceiling During a Storm

If water begins entering your home or business during a storm, don’t wait for the weather to clear before tackling this problem. Move furniture, electronics and other valuables away from the affected area but only if it is safe to do so.

Place containers underneath active drips when possible, and avoid areas where water may be near electrical fixtures or outlets. Once conditions are safe, contact our roofing professionals to determine the source and extent of the damage.

What Should You Do During a Roofing Emergency?

When roofing damage occurs, your first priority should always be safety. Avoid climbing onto a damaged roof, particularly during or immediately after severe weather. Wet surfaces, loose materials and structural damage can make roof access extremely dangerous. Allow our trained team to access the damage and react originally and safely.

Steps to Take After Roof Damage

• Keep people away from visibly damaged areas.
• Move belongings away from leaks but only if it is safe to do so.
• Use buckets or containers to catch water from active leaks.
• Avoid electrical equipment or outlets that have been exposed to water.
• Document visible damage with photos from a safe location.
• Contact our professional roofing team for an assessment.

If the damage is extensive or presents an immediate threat to the building or its occupants, additional emergency services may be necessary.

Not Every Roofing Problem Is an Emergency

It’s important to remember that not every roofing issue requires immediate emergency services. Minor shingle damage, aging roofing materials or a small area of deterioration may be able to wait for a scheduled inspection or repair. 

However, that doesn’t mean these problems should be ignored. Small roofing issues can become larger problems over time, particularly when water is able to get beneath the roofing system. Scheduling repairs early can help prevent more extensive damage and potentially reduce repair costs. Do not wait for the small problem to fester into something unmanageable.

When Should You Call a Roofing Contractor?

It isn’t always easy to determine the severity of roof damage from the ground. A problem that may look minor may have caused hidden damage. In contrast, a visible issue may not necessarily mean the entire roof needs to be replaced either. Allow our experienced team to assess the severity of your roof damage. Our professional roofing contractors can inspect the affected area, identify the source of the problem and help determine the appropriate next step.

If you’re dealing with an active roof leak, severe storm damage, structural damage or another situation that could threaten your property, contacting a professional promptly can help minimize further damage.

Protect Your Property With Prompt Roof Repairs

Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, an active leak or other unexpected roofing problems, knowing the difference between routine maintenance and a roofing emergency can help you protect your home or business and your wallets.

When your roof is damaged, acting quickly can help minimize additional damage and keep your property protected.

Call in the professionals

At Bonded Applicators, we have a team of experienced and skilled technicians that are fully licensed and insured. Our team shares a deep commitment to excellence and attention to detail. As members of the National Roofing Contractors Association, we are committed to providing services that are up to date with the latest of the industry’s standards and best practices. 

We hold several certifications and accreditations from leading industry organizations and professional associations, ensuring our team stays up to date with the latest roofing knowledge, techniques, and industry standards. This allows us to provide our customers with reliable, professional service they can trust.