How to Plan for Unexpected Roof Repairs

Unexpected or unplanned roof repairs happen during roof replacement or maintenance when a hidden part of the roof is found needing repairs. Not anticipating such problems can delay the project, or you may end up making changes to the project to accommodate the repairs. Fortenberry Roofing shares how you can keep your roofing project on track by preparing for unexpected repairs.

Why You Need to Prepare for Unexpected Repairs

The cost of the roofing job is based on the scope of work as outlined in the contract. This means any deviation from the original plan, including unplanned repairs, will require recalculation of the project cost. In most cases, the costs will go up. Roofing contractors perform a thorough inspection of the existing roof and makes as accurate an assessment of its condition as possible.

However, there are conditions that could be found once the roofing contractor starts tearing the old roof down. Rotten decking is one of the most common hidden problems. Even the most capable residential roofing contractor would not be able to detect problems with the decking if the top side is covered by underlayment and the underside is covered by insulation. Perhaps the contractor who worked on the existing roof used inadequate materials, maybe plywood that’s a few plies thinner than the minimum requirement.

How to Prepare for Unexpected Repairs

An unprepared homeowner would be faced with the choice to stop the project midway until additional funding is secured. Alternatively, they could make changes to the project to accommodate such repairs, assuming it’s at the stage where such changes are still possible. This may include downgrading the outer roofing. It’s important to remember that these are structural repairs, and bypassing it would result in an unsound roof.

The best way to anticipate unplanned repairs is to incorporate an “emergency” budget after you receive the estimate. About 10% to 20% of the estimated cost is usually enough to cover repair costs, but you should discuss such scenarios with your roofing contractor to get a more accurate figure. Another important note is that hidden roofing problems are preventable with regular roof inspections. In fact, a well-maintained roof can last longer between replacements.

Fortenberry Roofing is the residential roofing company to turn to for all your roofing needs. Give us a call at 1-806-385-6761 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Sudan and Lubbock, TX.