Avoiding Budget Blow-Outs: Factoring in Hidden Roof Damage

Roof repairs and replacements are often a significant investment, which is why meticulous budgeting is a must. The difficulty with coming up with a detailed budget, however, is that you can’t account for all the costs. And one unexpected cost is all it takes to blow your budget. 

Signs of exterior damage are easy enough to find. On the other hand, roofers will find it hard to diagnose interior damage, specifically involving the roof’s substrates, unless they tear off your roof. By then, it’s already too late to factor in these issues in your budget. 

However, this doesn’t mean budgets are an exercise in futility. Having an idea on the common issues with underlayers and their corresponding solutions can help improve your budget’s accuracy and help you prepare for any budget surprises. The commercial roofing contractors at Larry Walty Roofing list them below. 

Rotten Decking 

The decking underneath a roofing system isn’t usually replaced during a roofing project, unless the roofer notices some worrying signs. In most cases, however, the roof’s outer surface is damaged sometime after the inspection, exposing the underlayers to moisture. Accumulated moisture, over time, can cause wood rot. Frequent roof inspections are key to ensuring relatively minor cracks don’t worsen. 

Insufficient Decking 

If your home has been around for quite some time, there may be extra costs needed to ensure it meets building standards. In the past, the minimum thickness for deck boards was just a quarter of an inch. But now, it’s at least half an inch. Springy decking is a sign there aren’t enough wooden panels underneath. 

Accurate Roofing Estimates  

If your home has been around for quite some time, there may be extra costs needed to ensure it meets building standards. In the past, the minimum thickness for deck boards was just a quarter of an inch. But now, it’s at least half an inch. Springy decking is a sign there aren’t enough wooden panels underneath. 

Accurate Roofing Estimates  

You shouldn’t worry too much about these hidden surprises, however. It’s standard practice for contractors to send an inspector who will check your roof before giving an estimate. If your contractor didn’t, the estimate they gave you isn’t accurate. Worse, it means your contractor isn’t being upfront about the costs with you. 

Only hire reputable contractors to ensure you won’t be scammed. But if you don’t have the time to vet contractors, just look for certified contractors. Regardless of whether you need a roof repair or replacement, look for a certification from the Better Business Bureau. This certification is proof that a contractor follows ethical business practices. 

Don’t know any BBB-accredited contractors in your area? 

Larry Walty Roofing, a family-owned contractor with an A plus rating from the BBB, offers residential and commercial roof repair services. To get a free estimate, call us at (316) 779-2058 or leave us a message on this form. We serve homeowners in El Dorado, KS. 

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