What To Do In Case of Emergency Roof Repair Situations?

No one wants an emergency on their hands, especially a roofing emergency. But Pinnacle Roofing wants you to know how to handle them, just in case! Today, we’ll explain what to do in case of emergency roof repair situations. We offer 24/7 emergency roofing services in Memphis.

Examples of Emergencies

To know how to address an emergency, you first need to be able to identify one. There are lots of different ways these can take place, and some are more obvious than others—but the best way to know what to do is to give us a call to evaluate it for you.

1. Severe Weather Damage: High winds, hailstorms, heavy rain, snow, or ice storms can all cause significant damage to various kinds of roofing. This damage can include missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or even structural roof damage from fallen trees or other debris.
2. Roof Leaks: Leaks can occur due to damaged or deteriorated roofing materials, flashing failures, or skylights or vents that aren’t installed properly. Water intrusion can lead to extensive damage to the interior structures of the roof and the belongings beneath it if not addressed promptly. 
3. Ice Dams: In colder climates or in winter weather, ice dams can form on roofs and prevent proper drainage of melting snow and ice. This can lead to water backup under shingles, causing leaks and water damage to the roof and interior spaces. 
4. Fallen Branch or Tree: These are more apparent issues, of course. They can fall either due to an event like a storm or simply due to disease or decay. Either way, damage can be significant, including punctured or collapsed roofing, structural damage, and compromised safety.
5. Clogged Gutters: Blocked gutters and downspouts can cause water to back up and overflow onto the roof, causing water damage, rot, and mold growth.
6. Fire Damage: Fires can cause extensive damage to roofs, exposing the interior of the home to further damage from smoke and water. 
7. Animal Infestations: Pest infestations from birds, rodents, or insects can cause issues with roofing materials and create entry points for water and debris. They can also pose health risks to residents in some cases.
8. Structural Issues: Roof sagging, bowing, or other signs of structural instability indicate underlying issues that require immediate attention to prevent collapse.
9. Age-Related Wear: When roofing is not replaced properly, certain materials can be more prone to deteriorate when exposed to the elements, leading to cracks or missing shingles. This can be completely avoided by having regular roof inspections to identify signs of age-related damage before they turn into an emergency situation.
10. Improper Installation: In some cases, roofing is not installed by a reputable company. Poor workmanship or improper use of materials can put you and your family in danger.

Taking Action

Once an emergency is identified, here are some steps to take. Remember that your personal safety should always be the top priority.

1. Assess the Situation: Analyze the situation from the ground, if possible, looking for superficial signs of damage. 
2. Ensure Safety: If there are visible hazards such as fallen trees, powerlines, or structural damage, keep a safe distance and avoid entering the affected area. If there’s a risk of collapse directly after a weather event, the building should be evacuated at once.
3. Temporary Measures: If it’s safe to do so, use tarps, plastic sheeting, or plywood to cover exposed areas and prevent water intrusion. Secure loose objects and debris to prevent additional damage.
4. Contact a Professional: Contact a reputable roofing company like us as soon as possible. Explain the situation and request immediate assistance. We will dispatch a team to assess the damage and make repairs as needed.
5. Document Damage: Be sure to take photos or videos for insurance purposes. Document the extent of the damage and any temporary repairs you’ve made.
6. Notify Your Insurance Provider: Contact your homeowner’s insurance provider to report the emergency and initiate the claims process. Provide them with detailed information about the damage and any temporary repairs.
7. Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about weather updates and follow any evacuation orders or safety advisories issued by local authorities. Monitor the condition of your roof, and be prepared to take further action if necessary. 

Ready to Lend a Hand

As roofing experts, we always hope we’re meeting you under happy circumstances—but things do happen. It’s our job to fix them when they go wrong. So keep your eyes open for these types of situations, but also rest assured that there’s someone a phone call away to get you the help you need. You can reach us at any time by calling 901-250-2813.