10 Best Roof Repair in New Bedford, MA

What are common roofing issues?

Your roof is bound to have problems at some point, even with sufficient maintenance. Catching damage early with visual inspections can prevent costly repairs later.

The most common roofing issues you may come across while performing your own inspection include the following.

Damaged shingles

Cracked, broken or worn shingles are some of the most common roofing problems. Asphalt shingles, a common roofing material, usually last about 20–30 years, but exposure to extreme weather can lead to cracking or lifting. When shingles become broken or missing, moisture can seep into your roofing system, which can cause mold growth, leaks and decay in your home’s structure.

Flashing failures

Flashing—the metal sheets around a roof’s dormers, joints and vents—redirects water runoff away from vulnerable seams and transition points. Improperly installed or deteriorated flashing can become a common pathway for water to get into your home. Check for flashing failure when you notice leaks coming from joints, sagging areas, moisture stains, peeling paint or drips from ceilings that align with flashing seams.

Leaks

Leaks commonly develop in joints and flashing around skylights, chimneys and roof penetrations. The elements and aging materials cause these joints to open gaps, allowing water in. Identifying and repairing leaks as soon as possible is essential to avoid mold, mildew and decay.

Poor insulation

Insufficient insulation in your attic can lead to pricey roofing problems and extreme temperatures in your home. Making sure your attic is properly insulated for the local weather is a must for energy efficiency.

Standing water

Pooling water occurs when water doesn’t drain from your roof properly due to debris or low spots. This causes standing water after storms. Moisture saturation and roof rotting can occur if not removed within 48 hours. Additionally, it adds substantial weight stress and could indicate a need to replace your roof surface to fix the slope or drainage. Ensure your roof has proper drainage and clean debris regularly to avoid these issues.

What are signs you need roof repair?

You may need to get in touch with a roofer if you notice the following signs:

• Water in your attic: If there are wet spots in your attic or your roof has gaps, your roof likely needs repairs. Check for ice dams along eaves during winter, which can mean poor insulation or heat loss through the roof deck.
• Damaged shingles: Broken, missing or curled shingles let moisture into the roof, which can cause the decking and rafters to rot.
• Discoloration: Dark discoloration on the undersides of your rafters or decking indicates you probably have a leak and need repairs.
• Mold or mildew: Visible black mold or powdery mildew can indicate roof leaks, which can cause health issues and structural damage.
• Rust: Severe rust can cause warping, curling or holes in your flashing or fasteners. This weakens weatherproofing and structural soundness.
• Visible sagging: Excessive weight stress on roof rafters, sheathing and joists can cause visible sagging, a warning sign your roof may collapse. Reasons for extra weight can be dense clay tiles, overwhelmed drainage, excess insulation, concrete pavers or mechanical equipment. Moisture and severely warped sheathing can also reduce the roof’s effectiveness at draining precipitation, leading to ponding water, which worsens the issue.

How long are roofs supposed to last?

Your maintenance frequency, climate, roofing material and quality of installation influence your roof’s life span. Installation quality is the most important factor. An improperly installed roof may have gaps or other faults that lower its life expectancy.

Asphalt shingles last 20–30 years on average, but the type of shingle will impact the life span. Architectural shingles can last up to 25–30 years, while traditional three-tab shingles generally last 15–20 years. Well-maintained wood shingles or shake roofs can last about 20–25 years. However, they may be vulnerable to mold, rot and insect damage.

slate, metal and Concrete are some of the most durable roofing materials. Metal usually lasts 40–70 years or more. Concrete roofs generally last 50 years or up to a century with proper maintenance. Slate is one of the most durable materials, with slate roofs lasting for over a century.

How can you save money on a New Bedford roof repair?

Roof repairs can be very expensive. Here’s how you can cut down on the cost.

• Check your homeowners insurance: Review your homeowners insurance policy to determine what, if any, roof repair costs are covered. Depending on the reason for damage, such as storms or fallen trees, your insurance policy may cover the cost of the repairs.
• Compare quotes from multiple sources: Compare the prices and services offered by multiple roofing companies in New Bedford. This helps you make an educated decision.
• Conduct routine roof maintenance: After completing your repairs, you should focus on conducting regular inspections and maintenance on your roof. The prompt detection and repair of minor issues can help prevent them from becoming extensive and costly problems.
• Invest in preventive measures: Preventative measures, such as adding extra insulation or optimizing ventilation, decrease energy costs and the need for future repairs.
• Schedule repair services during good weather if possible: For the best rates, book roof repairs during off-peak periods when roofers aren’t as busy. However, avoid the rainy season because inclement weather can drive up the cost. Scheduling repairs during a dry period in an off-peak season can help you save the most money.

Our methodology for selecting roof repair companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.