By Dan Cahill and Gary Stewart
When a roofing emergency strikes, the stakes are high for business owners, landlords, and property managers in Southern California. The impact of a compromised roof can lead to extensive property damage, costly repairs, and potential safety hazards. At SBR Roofing, we understand the urgency and confusion that can arise during such crises. This guide provides you with clear, actionable steps to assess the situation, prioritize safety, and minimize damage, ensuring that you can navigate these challenging circumstances with confidence and clarity.
Assessing Urgency in Roofing Emergencies
The urgency of a roofing emergency can vary significantly, especially in the case of leaks. For those facing a leak, the situation feels immediate, and resolving it promptly is a top priority. However, the term “emergency” is often misapplied. Some roof leaks are genuine emergencies, while others, though pressing, may not warrant the same level of concern.
Consider the difference between a true emergency, like calling 911, and a less critical situation, such as a flat tire requiring roadside assistance. True emergencies often involve dramatic developments. A perfect example is when roof drains become clogged, hindering water drainage and leading to rapid accumulation, effectively turning the roof into a bathtub. This can result in severe leaks, such as a roof collapse that creates a waterfall effect or water pooling that seeps through openings, causing continuous water influx.
Clogged drains represent a clear emergency, but other scenarios, such as wind damage, can also escalate the urgency. For instance, if a roof is blown off in July, it is urgent; however, if this occurs in January with rain on the horizon, the urgency intensifies dramatically. While all leaks are significant, it’s crucial to differentiate between typical leaks that may feel urgent and those that truly constitute an emergency.
Dealing with Clogged Roof Drains During Storms
A common issue during a rainstorm is a clogged roof drain, which I’ve seen affect both commercial and residential properties. When hundreds of gallons of water accumulate in a matter of seconds, calling the fire department for assistance is crucial, as they often help unclog the roof drain. The rapid influx of water can cause extensive damage quickly; for instance, if it spills onto a desk or computer, those items are likely to be severely damaged or ruined. Furthermore, if the water seeps into the walls, property owners may soon face remediation efforts, including water extraction and potential mold growth if the moisture is not addressed promptly.
Addressing the source of the problem swiftly is akin to triage. While the initial damage has occurred, the focus should be on preventing further issues. The quicker you can stop the water from entering, the better your chances of minimizing additional damage. In such a catastrophic situation, understanding the risk of further destruction is vital.
Identifying and Evaluating Roof Leaks
Assessing a roof leak can be challenging, especially since most individuals are unable to access the roof themselves. They often work with limited information, which is understandable given the safety risks involved, particularly during inclement weather. To effectively address the situation, it’s crucial to evaluate the leak’s location in relation to the entire building. For example, is it near the perimeter by the walls, in the center where an air conditioning vent may be located, or close to a skylight? These details, while seemingly minor, play a significant role when seeking assistance from a roofing contractor.
One of the first questions a contractor will ask is about the location of the leak. A leak at the perimeter may indicate potential issues with roof drains, such as clogs, which can lead to serious problems. Conversely, a leak near a skylight might suggest a broken skylight, but this situation is not an urgent emergency, though there are exceptions.
Additionally, gathering information about the volume of water entering the building is crucial. Is it a slow drip, a steady stream, or are you having to empty a 55-gallon trash can every ten minutes? Understanding both the location of the leak and the amount of water coming in are essential factors that help determine the urgency of the situation and guide the next steps in addressing the roofing crisis.
Conclusion
Navigating a roofing emergency requires swift action and informed decision-making. By understanding the urgency of your situation, addressing issues like clogged drains promptly, and accurately assessing leaks, you can significantly reduce the risk of further damage and ensure the safety of your property. SBR Roofing is here to support you through these challenges, providing expert guidance and quality solutions to protect your investment and restore peace of mind.
Act fast and protect your property—trust SBR Roofing to handle your emergency with expert care and stop that roof leak.
Author Bio
As a proud fourth-generation commercial roofing contractor, Gary Stewart has dedicated his career to upholding the legacy of quality and craftsmanship established by his family. Today, as a managing partner, he works alongside his relatives, blending tradition with innovation to deliver exceptional roofing solutions. His commitment to excellence and teamwork not only strengthens SBR Roofing’s projects but also deepens those family bonds, ensuring that every roof we build is a testament to our shared values of integrity, durability, and service. Together, we are not just constructing roofs; we are building a future for our community and our family lineage.
Dan Cahill embarked on his journey in 2001, accumulating over 23 years of experience in the commercial roofing field. The original owner of SBR Roofing extended a trial opportunity in 2001, coinciding with the burst of the dot-com bubble. The proposition was simple: give it a year, see if it suits you, and if not, no hard feelings. Surprisingly, Dan found himself sticking around. Fast-forward over two decades, and he continues to thrive in the field.
With a background in sales, Dan discovered a passion for the dynamics of salesmanship, particularly in the freedom it offered from the confines of a desk. The opportunity to engage with people, navigate various situations, and even climb up on roofs appealed to him. This intriguing experience kept Dan hooked, prompting him to stay the course, eventually becoming a leader in the roofing industry.