Roof repairs are done promptly to protect the roof from replacement. A standard roof can last 30 years with proper maintenance. Programs have been set up through the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the state of New Jersey to help low-income seniors and disabled persons pay for roofing repairs and replacement. Repairs that may be covered include flashing, single shingle replacement, gutters, ponding water, leaks, and poor ventilation.
Flashing
Flashing is the drip edge running the periphery of the roof’s outline. Flashing keeps water from running underneath the shingles to create hidden pockets of decay. Metal roof flashing lines the windows, chimneys, pipes, and vents to prevent leaks. If the flashing is not installed correctly or deteriorates the integrity of the roof will be impaired. Caulk is not a replacement for effective flashing.
Single Shingle Replacement
Overexposure to the sun and natural disasters can damage an area of shingles. Single shingles or tiles can be replaced. Repairs should be done before decay or rot spreads to surrounding shingles.
- Blistering – Excessive heat from poorly ventilated and over-heated roofs can cause shingles to blister.
- Broken Shingles – Broken shingles usually occur when older shingles experience severe wind damage.
- Granule Loss – Over time, the shingles and tiles can start to deteriorate and lose pieces or granules, leaving the lower surfaces exposed.
- Lifted Shingles – If shingles shrink or blister, this can cause the edges of your shingles to lift, allowing water to seep underneath.
- Splitting – Caused by temperatures soaring then dropping. The material expands and contracts which causes tearing.
- Shrinkage – Shingles can shrink from normal aging and weathering of the asphalt materials.
- Shingles in Valleys – Since valleys are a major area for water to flow off the roof, the
Gutter
Effective gutters protect not only the roof from damage but the foundation from leaks and mold. Gutters quickly eliminate water from accumulating on the roof and send it down the downspout away from the foundation. Downspouts should end at least 3 feet from the foundation. Loose gutters that do not capture the water dripping from the roof cause significant damage in the basement of the home. Leaves, branches, and debris can cause obstruction in the gutters which can cause the fascia board to deteriorate. Quarterly cleaning of gutters is adequate. Gutter guards are effective at keeping debris out of gutters. A roofing contractor can install and repair gutters.
Ponding Water
All roofs in areas that get snow fall should be smooth and have a pitch of at least 10 degrees so that snow will slide off the roof as it melts. Flat roofs will develop ponding which will cause the formation of ice dams and water leaks. A roofing contractor can work with you to find a long-term solution for ponding water.
Leaks
All water leaks cause extensive damage if allowed to continue for any length of time. Hidden leaks are the most threatening. A professional roofing contractor will recognize signs of a hidden leak and it is possible that a small repair can save you thousands in the future.
Poor Ventilation
Poor roofing ventilation can cause the entire roof to rot. Severe damage occurs as the underlying materials deteriorate. Additionally, high energy costs, exterior paint damage, and leaks in the attic can result. Winter leaks become summer mold and mildew as the humidity rises. Roofing vents may be needed to stabilize the interior temperature of the home. A licensed roofing contractor will ensure that your roof is watertight with the correct air flow to safeguard your home.
HOME REPAIRS: NEW JERSEY
The programs and resources listed below help low income homeowners pay for home repairs and improvements.
- New Jersey affiliates of Habitat for Humanity – through volunteer labor, builds and rehabilitates houses for families in need
- USDA Rural Development local office – home improvement loans and grants to low-income homeowners in rural areas
- New Jersey Office of Consumer Protection
- New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance – licensee search
- New Jersey Housing & Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA)
- New Jersey housing program guide for consumers
- New Jersey Citizen Action – home improvement loan counseling
- New Jersey Consumer Affairs – home improvement tips
- New Jersey Better Business Bureau
- Community contacts – find out if your community offers home repair assistance
HOME EQUITY CONVERSION MORTGAGES FOR SENIORS
Reverse mortgages are increasing in popularity with seniors who have equity in their homes and want to supplement their income. The only reverse mortgage insured by the U.S. Federal Government is called a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) and is only available through an FHA-approved lender. The HECM is FHA’s reverse mortgage program that enables you to withdraw a portion of your home’s equity. To find a reverse mortgage counselor near you, search the HECM Counselor Roster or call (800) 569-4287. To find a reverse mortgage lender, use the HUD Lender List Search.
Contact us Phone: (908) 322-6405
Deegan Roofing can perform an inspection of your roof and repair any damage. We are family-owned and operated, Deegan Roofing Company has been installing and servicing residential and commercial roofing customers in the New Jersey area for over 30 years. Website https://www.deeganroofing.com/ Address: 345 Terrill Rd, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 Hours: Open 8:30 AM ⋅ Closes 5:30 PM