How can I tell if I have Storm Damage?

If you know your home has been in a storm with hail or heavy winds it is a good idea to contact a professional roofing company like Baker Roofing & Construction to perform a full roof and exterior inspection of your property. This will ensure that any and all damages related to the storm will be recorded so that your insurance company is held accountable to complete your restoration.

However, if you are not sure if the storm had hail or strong enough winds to cause damage there are a few tell-tale signs. First, if you have trees, look to see if you have leaves and small branches down around the yard. This is a very good indicator that the storm was strong enough to cause damage. Second, you can look to see if your gutters have any small dents. Small dents on your gutters are a strong sign that your roof might have damage. Also, small dents are enough to damage for your insurance to replace your gutters in most cases. Finally, if your front door is covered in cheap business cards, flyers, and door hangers, then you can be sure you have storm damage. So let’s talk about a few ways to choose a roofing contractor.

How to choose a roofing contractor?

Choosing a roofing contractor is a difficult and, sadly, sometimes risky process. Baker Roofing & Construction understands the pressures for homeowners. One of the best ways to choose a roofing contractor is to read reviews. This is why we encourage customers to look at our reviews. We have multiple outlets where our customers have shared their experiences for you to view.
Additionally, you should know if your roofing contractor is providing you the best product available. Baker Roofing & Construction’s standard roof consists of:

• Synthetic Underlayment, not felt paper
• Ice and Water barrier in the valleys instead of valley metal that corrodes
• Starter Strip and never, ever 3-tab shingles
• Always install 30-year laminate shingles or better; that means a free upgrade if your home has a 3-tab shingle on it
• Ventilation evaluation and remedy; offering upgraded options if available

Also, when choosing a contractor, it is important to consider if they will be completing your full storm damage restoration or if they will only be doing the roof and you are left to call several other contractors. Is the contractor going to prepare supplements and correspond with the insurance company for additional work needed to complete your restoration? Is the contractor handling the claim legally? Many contractors have committed insurance fraud unbeknown to the homeowner. This has lead to many states implementing harsh laws to protect insurance companies and consumers.

Insurance Claims

If you have not filed a claim yet, it is recommended that you have an inspection performed by Baker Roofing & Construction first. We will inspect your entire roof and exterior for damages and evaluate whether or not you need to file an insurance claim.
If you need to file, the insurance company will schedule an adjuster to come out to inspect the damages and write a claim. A Baker Roofing project manager will meet the adjuster for you. Our project managers are trained in storm damage claim restorations. In short, we fight to make sure your home is fully and properly restored.

What if my insurance didn’t pay enough to fix my home?

If you have already filed a claim do not fear, Baker Roofing will still ensure the insurance company pays for all the damages the storm caused to your property. We will write estimates for any additional work needed and supplement your claim while handling all correspondence allowed with your insurance company.

Do I have to pay my deductible?

Many contractors claim to offer deductible assistance or claim you will pay nothing out of pocket, however, this is insurance fraud. In order to collect the depreciation from your claim, you must pay the full RCV amount; this includes the ACV, depreciation and your deductible. This is because the roofing contractor must turn in an invoice showing the customer is to pay the full RCV amount. Baker Roofing & Construction cannot pay your deductible; however, we do offer financing services. Additionally, we even have our Referral Program and Advertising Rewards that will put cash back into your hands.

Storm Damage Restorations

When it comes to hail storm damage restoration Baker Roofing & Construction is the only call you will need to make. Whether you need a roof inspection or already have an insurance claim, Baker Roofing will handle it all from roofing, gutters, and siding to interior drywall repairs and painting. Baker Roofing & Construction is more than just a roofing company. We are a full-service roofing and construction company committed to providing exceptional customer service and dedicated to using beautiful, sustainable and functional products.

Local. Professional. Sustainable. Baker Roofing & Construction.

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Do you currently have storm damage on your roof?

Roofs are expensive; one of the most expensive components of the entire home. Therefore, prior to paying for a roof out of your savings, it is wise to have a professional roof inspection performed by Baker Roofing & Construction. We are able to determine whether your roof has any storm damage and if so, we will look to find a storm date within a year of the inspection. If there are damages and a storm date, then we will recommend you file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance policy. If it is approved for replacement, then you will only be paying your deductible and not the entire roof replacement cost.

Will you be upgrading your new roof?

Before committing to a new roof, it is important to consider if it is a viable option for you to upgrade your roof. Perhaps you would like to upgrade to a roof that is stronger and that qualifies for an insurance discount like what you get with a Class IV roofing systems. Or perhaps you just want a better-looking roof, like designer shingle or a tile, slate or metal roof. No matter what you choose Baker Roofing & Construction can assist you, whether it be recommending a new roofing system or even just answering any of your questions, Baker Roofing is always ready to help.

Will you need new decking?

You may be thinking, why could I possibly need new decking? Well, it may need to be replaced for several reasons. First, if the roof wasn’t in good condition there is a possibility that your decking could have water damage and have weakened greatly. It is important to remember that the decking not only is the medium in which your roofing material is attached, but it also adds rigidity by connecting all your rafters together. Secondly, your decking may not be up to current building codes. Depending on where you're located, your city may have adopted IRC 2012 or IRC 2015 code R803.1 which state that the minimum decking thickness must be 5/8”. Prior to 2012, most builders used only a 7/16” decking which means that it is more than 1/8” thinner.

Are you planning on painting soon?

Often when a homeowner gets the taste for some repairs to their home, they start thinking about what more they can do and rightly so. But there is a right and wrong way to go about it all. Such as, if you are planning on getting a new roof and painting your home, it would be wise to paint first. Painting first will make sure that your beautiful new roof is not accidentally marred with paint from overspray. Be sure to consider all of the repairs or upgrades you have planned prior to replacing your roof. If you have any questions whether or not an item you have planned will interfere with your roof installation, Baker Roofing & Construction is happy to assist in answering any of your questions or concerns, so contact us today!

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Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Standing seam is one of the most popular and luxurious metal roofs on the market. Metal panels are custom fabricated and installed by our expert installers with great attention to detail. Standing seam is named for the seam that “stands up” typically 1 to 1.5 inches. These panels come in smooth, striated or ribbed styles. The latter two adding to the aesthetics and durability of the panels. Adding ribs or striations can help to prevent the metal from heat warping, also called oil canning. Standing seam metal roofing comes in several beautiful color options.

Impressed Metals

Impressed metals roofing systems are designed to offer you the unique aesthetics of slate, tile and wood shake with the durability and longevity of metal roofing. In fact, these are wonderful solutions for replacing old wood shake shingles with high-quality metal roofing while maintaining the original feel of the home. With so many different styles and colors, impressed metal is a perfect option for any home.

Stone Coated Steel

While impressed metals offer high value and added strength over composition shingles, stone coated steel increases that value with durability and eye appeal of the house. Just like impressed metal roofing, stone coated steel is designed to mock other roofing systems but with the addition of a coating of stone chips and an acrylic film for added strength and beautiful color finishes.

R – Panel Metal Roofing

R-panel is the standard barnyard metal and may be known as w metal or u panel. While R-panel is the most affordable metal roofing system, r-panel does present some weakness in that it is an exposed fastener system. This simply means that the screws are visible, exposed to the elements and only seal with a rubber washer. Although the metal will last for many years, it is likely that the screws will need to be replaced in 7 – 10 years as the washers deteriorate.

Choosing a Metal Roof? Baker Roofing In Dallas Can Help!

You now know the most popular types of metal roofing available, it is time to choose which type is right for your home and budget. Baker Roofing & Construction can supply you with all the information you need and guide you on which system would work best for you and your home. And don't forget, Baker Roofing & Construction is more than just a roofing company. Learn more about our gutters, siding, windows and other exterior services for your home or business. Contact us today!

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Components of Your Roof Can Show the Damage of Wind Too

Singles can be torn off, as can metal or vinyl fascia. Vents and chimneys can show the effects of high winds as well. In the north Texas, Oklahoma areas, storms cause millions of dollars of damage each year. It is important to repair any storm damaged roofing quickly to avoid any future deterioration of the roof.

Baker Roofing & Construction is your roofing repair expert. We can inspect and repair any damaged roofing material, whether it's residential or commercial.

Common Roof Damage After A Storm

The most common complaints of roof damage include missing, damaged or loose shingles – roof leaks – clogged gutters and downspouts.

Shingles

High winds from strong storms, tornadoes or hurricanes can be hard on any roof. If shingles have been damaged by trees or debris, your roof is vulnerable to leaks. Missing shingles or missing fascia or flashing leave a roof more susceptible to future storm events. Any weakness in a roof allows an opportunity for rain to penetrate the deck of the roof and damage to the interior of the property.

Roof Leaks

This is usually what motivates a customer to call a roofer. A roof leak is direct evidence of damage. This can be a result of wind or impact from debris or a tree. A leak can cause mold, stains on ceilings and walls, and damage to items inside the home including flooring and bedding. If a leak is noticed, it is imperative to have the roof inspected and repaired quickly.

Clogged Gutters

Gutters handle proper run-off of water from your roof. When gutters are clogged, water backs up onto the roof and spills between the house and gutter. The downspouts no longer serve their purpose. This causes damage to the fascia. Water spilling out can also cause erosion near the foundation of the property.

The Right Roofer for Your Storm Damage Repair

Your roof is the most exposed surface of your property, so you want to have it inspected for storm damage. When your home or business is showing evidence of storm damage, it is important to have repairs made expeditiously. Seek out an experienced and trustworthy professional roofer to inspect, estimate and complete repairs quickly. An experienced roofer has all the knowledge necessary to identify problems, file claims with insurance and make all required repairs. An honest roofer will only repair what needs to be repaired.

Baker Roofing & Construction Inc. is your storm damage one-stop-shop for roof repairs, but also for gutters, siding, windows and other exterior components of your home or business.

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Wrong! 30 - year shingles also known as laminated, dimensional or architectural shingles typically do not last 30 years. 20, 40, or 50 - year shingle will not last their designated years either. It is a common misconception and a point of confusion for many homeowners. Thus, trying to make a responsible decision in a roofing system can become difficult. Let’s look at a few areas to inform you and answer your question - how long does a roof last?

What is a 30 year shingle?

Up until the 1980s the most prevalent asphalt shingle used was the strip shingle otherwise called the 3-tab or the 20 – year shingle. These are the flat shingles with, of course, 3 tabs that most people remember being the standard shingle for decades and continue to be common for an economical choice. However, shingle manufactures wanted to bring more style and function to the table.

The 30-year shingle was introduced. It has more 3-D texture and color contrast than the old basic 3-tab could offer. In addition, it is also a thicker shingle than the 20 – year 3 tabs of the past, therefore, providing more protection than a 20-year shingle.

How long does a roof last?

Typically, a 30 – year roof will last on average 12-15 years in more extreme climates, such as we have here in Texas. 25 – year roofs lasting 9-12 years on average. But, how can this be, you say. To understand this we need to first look at how the manufactures define their shingle levels and warranties now versus how they defined them in the past.

30 – year shingle warranty

Warranties are misleading these days. More often than not, a shingle warranty will be a Limited Lifetime Warranty that protects against manufacturer defects. However, this warranty does not guarantee that the shingle will last the 20, 25 or 30 – years. This switch happened in the early 2000s when most manufacturers switched from 20 and 30-year warranties to the Limited Lifetime Warranty. At the same time, 3 tabs shingles that had been referred to as 20 – year shingles began being marketed as 25 – year shingle with no improvements to the product. This was an obvious marketing ploy, while successful for the manufactures, it is just added confusion and less actual protection for the consumer.

Why do roofs not last 30 years?

There are several factors that determine the lifetime of a roof. UV rays, debris, excessive temperature shifts, storm damage, and other physical hazards will all tick away at the longevity of the shingle.

UV Damage

While all these factors affect the lifetime, no more do greater damage alone than the harmful UV rays. Asphalt is made of petroleum compounds which are heavily degraded by UV rays. The shingles top coat of granules, made of ceramic minerals, help to protect the asphalt from the UV rays. However, when these granules begin to fall off the shingle, known as granule loss, the UV damage is increased, thereby allowing for an increased rate of granule loss. Essentially, it’s this synergistic effect that causes a 30 - year roof to fail after only 12 years.

Granule Loss

And granule loss? Well, that is all affected by the debris, excessive temperature shifts and small storm damage that happens every year. While some physical hazards can’t be avoided, like small hail damage and severe winds, others can be prevented. For example, when a tree limb is allowed to grow too close to the roof it becomes a potential cause for increased granule loss.

If Your 30 Year Roof Is Over 12 Years Old It's Time For An Inspection!

Baker Roofing & Construction provides a wide range of services including free roof inspections, free roof installation quotes, insurance claim consultation, and supplement writing. Contact us today for more information!

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5 tips to make hiring a roofing contractor much less challenging.

1. Ensure They are Insured Roofers

Roofing Contractors should all have General Liability insurance of $1,000,000 coverage. This insurance is there to cover the homeowner in the case of any mishaps that could happen during the project. Therefore, ask to see their certificate of insurance and verify with the insurance company that it is valid. This is one way to responsibly cover yourself and weed-out many of the bad contractors.

2. Check Reviews and References

Another option is to ask for a list of references that you can call. Every contractor should be able to provide 3 to 5 previous customers that will be willing to share their experiences with you. Also, check Google and Facebook for reviews. Google and social media are both great ways to learn about the contractor.

3. Explore the Website

Any legitimate Dallas roofing company will have a website for you to explore. You can check for reviews here also and find current and past projects pictures. Exploring the website will give you a sense of how the company operates and furthermore, will potentially give you a preview of how your experience will be in the end.

4. Communication

Communication is imperative. How does the company communicate? Do they return calls in a respectable time? Are they available via email? Are they professional? Without good communication, how can you feel safe that all the fine details of your project are going to be taken care of properly? If your contractor isn't communicating well in the beginning, then move on and save yourself a headache.

5. Pay Your Deductible

The deductible is solely the responsibility of the insured. As such, it must be paid by the insured in order to claim the depreciation that has been withheld. The contractor must provide the insurance company with an invoice for the total amount that the insured pay. Contractors who say they can pay your deductible are committing insurance fraud and putting the insured at risk as well. They do this by lying to the insurance company and telling them you paid the whole amount. While some discount may be possible, simply not paying your deductible could put you at risk.

Choose a Roofing Contractor

Although, it is always challenging to find the right roofing contractor to restore your roof after storm damage, using the above 5 tips to choose the right roofing contractor will make your job much less confusing. No matter who you choose, make sure your damage is taken care for properly before your roof damage becomes greater.

Baker Roofing & Construction is more than Just a Roofing Company. Our Services range from kitchen and bathroom remodels to exterior storm restoration, skylights, and gutters. Contact us today for more information!

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Now, I’m not sure if that’s true but everything is bigger in Texas. So, when those big Texas-sized raindrops hit your roof and find a way into your home, you better call Baker Roofing & Construction. We offer a quick diagnosis and leak repair service. But let’s discuss what to do when your roof leaks before the professionals arrive.

Leaks Happen

Unfortunately, most homeowners will not be aware of a leak until it has become a major problem. This is because most leaks will be small at first and will slowly get worse till a small leak becomes a very large leak. Small leaks can cause damage to your decking, rafters and ceiling joist. They can cause mold to form in the attic or inside your walls. Also, leaks attract insects like ants and termites that may cause even more structural damage if you don't get a quality roof repair.

What Can You Do About A Leaky Roof?

You can inside your attic and look for the source of the leak. If you are able to find the source, then we need to assess how much water is being leaked into the home and if there is any immediate damage that could occur. Consider if the leaking water could interfere with any electrical junctions or other immediate hazards. Try placing buckets to catch any of the dripping water. If the water is running down a surface rather than dripping, try attaching a length of string to the area where the water is running to try and reroute the water down the string and into the bucket like how a rain chain operates.

Tarp Your Roof

If you feel comfortable climbing up onto your roof, then you can apply a tarp as a temporary patch. This is a service Baker Roofing offers but here is a DIY guide if you are feeling so bold.

First, wait until the rain has stopped and the roof has dried. Then you will need a large tarp that is at least 3’ larger, in every direction, than the area that needs repair, enough 1x4” boards to outline the perimeter of the tarp and some long 2” deck screws to fasten it all down. You will need to spread the tarp over the area that needs repair. Then, along the top side, roll your 1x4” up in the tarp three times to make three layers of tarp wrapped around your board. Next, fasten the board to the roof with a screw, going through the tarp and the board, into the roof decking. Apply a screw every 12-16” to the board till you come to the end. Repeat these steps for the other three sides of the tarp and, if done properly, you should have a temporary patch that will hold up for 2-4 months.

Call a Professional Roof Contractor

Leaks can be hard to find since water will take the path of least resistance and can travel a great distance from the source. This is why it is important to call a professional roofing company to inspect your roof in detail so that the leak can be found, and any potential future threats can be curved. Finding these issues can greatly reduce future repair costs. Baker Roofing & Construction will inspect your whole roof system even when called out for a simple repair.

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