Roof sagging is a problem for homeowners and one you shouldn’t ignore! A sagging roof is at risk of cracking or collapsing, and can lead to costly interior damage including wood rot and mold. A collapsed or cracked roof can also let rodents, insects, and other pests into your home!
Roof sagging problems are often serious; however, repairs are easier and more affordable the faster you schedule those repairs. Ignoring a sagging roof so that it eventually collapses means more damage and even costlier fixes, and can lead to secondary damage inside the home.
Because roof damage gets more expensive to fix the longer it’s ignored, and because a collapsed roof can be dangerous in certain cases, consider some vital information about keeping your home’s roof in good condition. You can then discuss this information with a roof repair contractor near you as needed and know that your home’s roof is always in good repair.
A sagging roof doesn’t necessarily mean that the roof is in immediate danger of collapsing, but keep in mind that the sooner you act to repair the roof, the less likely it is that it will collapse. Note a bit more information about sagging roofs so you know when to call a roof repair contractor near you.
There are a few different common causes of roof sagging or dipping, including:
While it’s not unusual for a roof to sag over time, this doesn’t mean that it’s normal or that you can simply ignore the issue! As with any needed fixes for your home, once a roof starts to sag or dip or show any signs of damage, it’s best to find the root cause of that damage and address it as quickly as possible.
While roof collapse is somewhat rare, knowing the signs of severe roof damage can alert you to the need for immediate repairs, including:
Regular roof inspections are an excellent investment for any home, but especially if you notice any of these signs of serious roof damage. Timely repairs can prevent that collapse and keep costs to a minimum!
A sagging roof is dangerous to walk on and can eventually collapse, as said. A collapsing roof is dangerous to anyone standing underneath it, risking serious injury and even death. Collapsing ceiling tiles can also cause injury to anyone standing under those tiles.
However, there are even more reasons to consider timely roof repairs if you notice sagging, dipping, buckling shingles and tiles, or other signs of roof damage to your home. It’s especially vital to schedule repairs if that sagging has resulted in cracks along roof layers!
There are two parts to fixing a sagging roof; the first step of these vital repairs is to determine what caused the roof to sage and then address that issue! A homeowner might need to clean off snow and ice more frequently during wintertime or invest in new gutters that can manage rain and melting snow, or otherwise ensure the roof is protected from future water damage.
If you’ve added new roofing layers over existing shingles or tiles, a roofer might remove all those materials and install new shingles. He or she might even recommend a lighter roofing material, such as metal or wood. This can alleviate weight from the roof and ensure it stays strong and secure.
If a damaged foundation has led to a sagging and cracked roof, a homeowner might need to invest in underpinning or other such repairs, and then waterproofing, to keep the foundation strong. House leveling might also be needed for sunken homes, to return it to a level and even position.
Once the cause of sagging is determined and addressed, a roofing contractor will then move on to the second stage of repairs. He or she might install braces to shore up the roof rafters. New rafters, either in place of damaged framing or in addition to current rafters, can also brace up the roof and keep it strong.
Damaged sheathing, or the thin boards of wood that support the roof between trusses, might also need replacing or repair. Bracing those sheathing panels or adding new wood pieces under them can offer added support, putting a roof back to a level position and keeping it strong.
Fixing a sagging roof is often more expensive than other roof repair jobs, typically averaging between $700 and $2000 or more. Your costs to fix a sagging roof will depend on whether or not a contractor can repair rafters and joists or if they need replacing, and if other materials such as sheathing also need replacing.
Secondary damage will also add to those costs; for example, if trapped moisture has allowed mold to form, you’ll need to invest in professional mold cleanup and removal. Cracked ceiling tiles also need replacing, which then adds to your cost.
For the most accurate estimate when it comes to your roof, contact a roofing contractor near you. Many roofing companies offer free quotes for their work, so it can cost you nothing to find out the extent of damage to your home. Some companies also provide financing or work with customers to help them get the financing they need for repairs, so you can better afford to fix that roof!
Insurance companies might pay for damage caused by storms, falling tree branches, and other such issues. However, damage due to snow and ice buildup, clogged gutters, and other such neglect, as well as everyday wear and tear, is not typically covered under your homeowner’s insurance.
If your home needs roof repairs for any reason and you’re curious as to whether or not the cost of those repairs is covered by insurance, contact your agent. He or she can review your policy and any roofing estimates you’ve received, and then inform you of your coverage details.
While a roof might start to sag due to age and common wear and tear, there is much a homeowner can do to help keep it in good condition and avoid otherwise preventable damage. Note some tips on how to keep a roof from sagging and avoid cracks, gaps, and other damage as well:
Sagging is an obvious sign of needed roof repair, but it’s not the only indication that you have a bad roof overhead! Knowing signs of roof damage and needed fixes ensures you can schedule those repairs quickly and avoid otherwise unnecessary damage. Call a roof repair contractor if you notice any of these signs of damage along your home’s roof:
Note, too, that older roofs often need repairs even if they seem to be in good condition. Invest in regular roof inspections but especially for a roof older than 7 years, so you can schedule those fixes as quickly as possible.
Fort Collins Roofing Company is proud to provide this information to our readers and we hope it helped you understand why roof sagging is a problem, and how to address that issue as well. If you need roof repairs or a new roof installation, rely on our trusted Fort Collins roofing contractors to get the job done right! We offer FREE estimates and guaranteed services for every project. To find out more, give us a call today.