How to Do Your Own Roof Repair

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A poorly maintained roof can lead to water leaks, mold, rotted wood and other structural problems in the house. While certain repairs should be left to a professional roofing contractor (think: missing shingles, leaky chimney flashing), many minor issues can be handled by the average DIYer.

First, visually inspect the roof for puddles and areas where rain can’t drain. Then check the flashing for deterioration. Contact Roof Repair Erie PA now!

Built-up roofing (BUR) is a popular commercial and industrial roof system known for its durability and longevity. While newer roofing materials like single-ply membranes have become more popular, BUR still has a place in the market, particularly for larger structures that require sturdy protection against harsh weather conditions.

In contrast to shingles, a BUR roof consists of multiple layers that must be installed and secured properly to avoid leaks and other problems. After a base sheet is applied, a series of felt and bitumen sheets are placed over the top, each layer being adhered to the previous one with hot asphalt or cold adhesive.

The final layer is a coat of gravel that helps protect against UV rays and other physical damage. BUR’s multiple layers offer a high level of durability that can withstand 20 or 30 years of weathering without significant deterioration. However, the multiple layers make this roof type quite heavy, which can put stress on a building’s structural components. During installation, bitumen must be heated to bond the layers together, creating an unpleasant odor that can be difficult for nearby workers and tenants to endure.

Despite its impressive lifespan, a BUR roof requires frequent inspections and prompt repairs to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Identifying and addressing issues like alligatoring (small cracks caused by asphalt shrinkage), blistering (soft bubbles created by trapped moisture), and ridging (thermal expansion) can help extend the lifespan of your built-up roof.

Although these types of issues can occur on any roof, the complexity of a BUR system makes them more difficult to spot and repair than other roofing types. For this reason, it’s important to have an experienced roofing contractor handle the maintenance and repairs on a BUR roof. Using facility management software like Q Ware can simplify the process of scheduling regular inspections and ensuring timely repairs, helping you maintain a strong, durable roof for decades to come.

Shingles

A shingle is a flat, rectangular piece of roofing material made of wood or other organic materials. It is covered with a layer of tar that seals it to the roof and protects it from the elements. It is often used in residential homes, and it can be either cedar shingles or asphalt shingles. Shingles are often replaced or repaired because of damage, wear and tear, or age.

When a shingle becomes damaged or deteriorates, it can leak. This can cause mold, mildew, and other problems with the roof structure. If it isn’t fixed quickly, the water can also damage the interior of the home. Leaks are a sign that the roof needs repair.

Loose or missing shingles should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent leaks, water damage, and other problems. The good news is that if you have some DIY skills, you can replace shingles yourself. First, you’ll need to remove the old shingle. You can do this by using a flat pry bar to pop the nails that hold it in place. Then, you can slide in a new shingle and nail it down. You may need to use some caulk or roof cement to help the shingle adhere to the roof surface. If your shingles are curled or brittle, you can try to straighten them with a heat gun before you replace them.

You should only attempt to make shingles repairs on your own if you have some experience with roofing work. This is because a mistake can lead to serious injuries, and it’s not worth the risk. In addition, improper installation can void some manufacturer warranties.

Aside from leaking, other signs that your roof needs repair are cracks, moss, and mold growth. In the case of a crack, you can often repair this by applying some silicone caulk or paint. If you’ve spotted moss or mold in your attic, it is probably a sign that you need to replace the insulation. If you’re concerned about the safety of repairing your own roof, consider hiring a professional.

Flashing

Flashing is a sheet of thin, impervious material installed at roof intersections and projections like chimneys, dormers, vent pipes, window openings and more. It’s crucial for preventing water infiltration that can cause structural damage to the home and encourage mold growth. The type of flashing used depends on the roof and the specific project. The best options include aluminum, galvanized steel and copper, which last longer than plastic varieties.

When properly installed and maintained, flashing prevents leaks by directing rainwater around the areas where the roof meets walls or other structures. This allows water to flow down the gutters and away from the structure, rather than seeping into the interior. Flashing is also used to prevent moisture infiltration through joints in the roof.

Flashing comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, but all are designed to create an effective seal against water penetration. It is often made from metal, such as copper or aluminum, but it can be constructed from other materials, including a range of modern composite substances and plastics. Flashing is typically a two-part system that includes base flashing, which is placed at the bottom of the feature and covers the joint. Counter-flashing, which is placed opposite to and above the base flashing, completes the system.

Over time, harsh weather can deteriorate the seams that affix flashing to the roof or wall, causing cracking and leaks. Damaged flashing is among the leading causes of roof leaks, so it’s important to regularly inspect and repair it.

A professional roofer should always be consulted when performing any roof repair work. This ensures that the proper repair techniques are employed and that safety measures are taken when working at heights. A professional roofer will also have the knowledge and expertise to identify and address underlying issues that could impact the success of a flashing repair.

The most common signs of damaged flashing are discoloration in the ceiling or walls, leaking during rainfall and visible moisture. If you notice any of these problems, contact a local roofing expert for a free roof inspection and a detailed flashing repair estimate.

Gutters

Gutters are the troughs along the roofline that collect and discharge rainwater. They are an integral part of a roofing system and, in their proper functioning, protect the building’s structure from water damage. They are designed to drain rainwater through downspouts and away from the home, reducing erosion and preventing moisture intrusion that can damage paint or stain on the fascia and walls.

Regular cleaning and maintenance of gutters, soffits, and fascia are essential to ensuring their performance. They also help protect the integrity of the house’s foundation and keep water from seeping into crawl spaces or basements, causing mold and mildew. Gutters are also critical for preserving the longevity of the roofing materials.

Having your gutters cleaned and checked by a professional is essential for avoiding costly repairs. Clogged, sagging, or leaky gutters can lead to water overflow, which can cause structural damage to the roof and foundation of your home. This can increase the amount of time it takes to repair or replace your roof and lead to a greater cost overall.

Gutter systems can be made from aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can be custom-designed to fit your property and include downspout extensions that carry rainwater away from the foundation of the house.

While gutters are often ignored, they’re an important component of your roof. Gutters can be clogged by leaves, twigs, or dirt, sagging due to excessive weight or improper support, and leaky from corrosion, loose fittings, or gaps. Regular maintenance and inspections will ensure that your gutter system continues to function properly, extending the life of your roof and protecting the value of your home.

If you’re planning a roof replacement, consider having your gutters replaced at the same time to reduce installation costs. Some roofing systems work best with certain types of gutters, and having them installed together can save you money in the long run and create a more cohesive aesthetic for your home’s exterior. A roof specialist can provide information on the best gutter options for your roofing system and advise you on a plan for future maintenance.

Choosing a Concrete Contractor

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Choosing the right concrete contractor can make or break your construction project. Start with a recommendation from a trusted source, like a friend or family member who recently had work done in their home.

Concrete Contractor

The job of installing concrete may seem easy enough, but it requires skill and expertise. You should look for a concrete contractor who follows building codes and regulations, and understands proper construction techniques to ensure safety and structural integrity. Contact Highlands Ranch Concrete Contractor for professional help.

Contractors are essential in any community, bringing their team’s vision to life by combining their analytical, creative, and leadership skills. While most people think of plumbers and electricians when they think of contractors, there are many other types of contractors who work in residential and commercial construction. One of these is a Concrete Contractor, whose responsibilities include pouring, finishing, and curing concrete slabs, foundations, walls, and other structures according to blueprints and building codes.

There are several key factors to look for in a concrete contractor, including experience and insurance. A reputable contractor should be able to provide you with references from past projects that showcase their capabilities and quality of workmanship. You should also inquire about the type of concrete mix they use, as different manufacturers create concrete with varying qualities that impact strength and durability.

A professional concrete contractor will have strong time management skills and be able to meet deadlines while staying within budget. They should be able to collaborate effectively with customers, General Contractors, and other subcontractors and stay aware of potential risks that may arise during the project. Being able to communicate clearly is important, as mistakes due to misunderstandings or miscommunication can lead to expensive delays and disputes.

You should also ask a concrete contractor how they plan to handle expansion and control joints in your project, as these are crucial for long-term success. An experienced contractor will have a solid understanding of the benefits and limitations of various types of joints, so they can recommend the right solution for your unique situation.

If you are interested in becoming a Concrete Contractor, it’s important to take time to think through your career goals and objectives. You can learn on the job by starting as an assistant or apprentice in a concrete construction company, or you can pursue formal training through trade schools and unions that specialize in concrete. Becoming a Concrete Contractor can be a highly rewarding career for those who are self-motivated and willing to put in the work.

If you are looking for a reliable and dependable Concrete Contractor, please contact us. We would be happy to discuss your project and provide you with a free estimate.

Insurance

While concrete contractors provide a vital service, the industry is not without risk. This is why insurance coverage is a must for any concrete contractor. Insurance provides protection in the event that a third party is injured by your equipment or a work-related accident. It also protects you from lawsuits brought against your business for damages or missed deadlines. Many concrete contractors choose to include general liability, commercial property, workers’ compensation, and other insurance types in their policy.

General liability insurance covers basic third-party risks, such as when wet concrete accidentally damages a client’s property. Commercial property insurance offers protection for your business building (owned or rented), storage warehouses, inventory, tools, and more. It is often bundled with business owners insurance policy (BOP) and workers’ compensation for convenience and a reduced premium.

Workers’ compensation insurance offers coverage for medical expenses and a portion of lost wages for employees who are injured on the job. This is a mandatory insurance requirement in most states for any business with employees.

Other essential insurance policies include errors and omissions insurance, which protects your business from claims made by clients for damages related to undelivered services or missed deadlines. Professional liability insurance is an additional option for concrete contractors, and it offers broader coverage than standard general liability.

Other optional insurance policies include inland marine insurance, which covers goods in transit, and commercial auto insurance, which covers vehicles used for business purposes. Most concrete contractors can obtain a generic insurance quote for their business, but there are factors that can affect the rate and terms of the policy. These include business size, location, a history of accidents and claims, and more. To get a better idea of what your insurance rates will be, it is helpful to compare prices and policies from different providers. You can use online quotes to quickly compare pricing and coverage options. Once you have a few quotes, you can determine which policy is best for your concrete construction company. Having the right insurance coverage will make you more attractive to clients.

Licenses

Concrete contractors must have a valid license to operate in their jurisdiction. This license usually requires passing a written exam and showing financial solvency through the posting of a bond. However, licensing requirements vary by state. It is best to check with your local labor and industry department for specifics.

Masonry is a skill that can be learned through on-the-job training and apprenticeships, as well as attending trade school or vocational college programs. However, most masons acquire their skills through years of on-field work with more experienced masons. Many concrete contractors are members of professional associations that provide continuing education and networking opportunities. They may also attend industry events like the annual World of Concrete trade show to stay up-to-date on new materials, technology, and construction methods.

Commercial concrete construction projects require a high level of expertise and experience to ensure that the job is completed correctly. Contractors should be able to provide references and examples of their previous work. This will help potential clients get a feel for the quality of their work and whether it is right for them.

Concrete is a heavy material that requires careful and skilled handling. A good concrete contractor must be able to complete the job safely and on time, while complying with building codes and regulations. They also collaborate with architects, engineers, and other construction professionals to ensure that their concrete work integrates seamlessly with the overall design and structural requirements of a project.

Once the formwork is in place, a concrete contractor mixes the concrete on site, using the appropriate proportions of cement, sand, and water to produce a high-quality finished product. They then pour the concrete, smoothing it out with specialised tools to create a flat and even surface. They might also add decorative elements to enhance the appearance of the concrete, such as stamped patterns or coloured stains.

Once the concrete has been poured and smoothed, it needs to cure for several days before it can be used. A good concrete contractor will know the proper curing techniques and apply a protective sealant to keep the concrete from staining or damage.

Reputation

Concrete is a popular construction material that’s used to build walls, floors, and more. It’s important that any concrete work is done by a professional contractor to ensure it’s safe and meets building codes. However, choosing the right contractor can be difficult. Several factors need to be considered, including experience, insurance, and reputation.

A good contractor will have a strong track record of completing projects on time and within budget. They should also be able to provide references from past clients. In addition, they should use project management software to track progress on the jobsite and communicate with their team. These tools can help prevent mistakes that could affect the overall quality of the finished product.

Another factor to consider is how long the contractor estimates the project will take. Some concrete jobs can be completed in a few days, while others may take weeks. A reputable contractor will be able to give you an accurate estimate of how long the project will take and will not charge you any extra fees for delays or unexpected complications.

Lastly, a good concrete contractor will have a friendly demeanor and be willing to answer any questions you may have. They should also be able to explain the process of how they will complete the project, including any special steps that need to be taken. If a contractor seems aloof or unfriendly, it’s best to keep looking for a more qualified candidate.

The Basics of Life Insurance

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Life Insurance Greenville SC is a contract between the policyholder and an insurer. Upon the insured’s death, the insurer promises to pay a lump sum to the beneficiaries.

Buying life insurance is smart for anyone with family, children, or others who depend on them financially. It also protects against debt and final expenses.

The main benefit of life insurance is that it gives your beneficiaries a sum of money in the event of your death. This amount can be used to pay off debts, funeral expenses, and other costs that may arise. It can also replace your income so that your spouse or children do not have to rely on financial support from others.

Depending on the type of policy you choose, some policies also offer living benefits, which provide a portion of the death benefit while you’re still alive. These benefits can be helpful for those with chronic, critical, and terminal illnesses. Additionally, some permanent life insurance policies also provide a cash value that earns interest over time. This cash can be withdrawn or borrowed, but it’s important to understand the terms and conditions of these plans before making any decisions.

The cost of a life insurance policy depends on a variety of factors, including your age, gender, health, and the coverage amount you select. You can get a more accurate estimate by taking out an individual life insurance quote from several reputable companies. The younger and healthier you are, the lower your premium will be. In addition, some groups of people are considered low risk for the insurance company, such as women, nonsmokers, and those with no complex medical issues.

Life insurance is an important tool for families, as it provides a death benefit that can help pay off mortgages, debts, and other expenses. It can also cover funeral and burial costs. However, it’s essential to review your life insurance coverage often. Changes to your family’s situation, such as a divorce, birth, or new job, can indicate that you need to update your coverage.

Another key benefit of life insurance is that the death benefits are usually not taxable. This can be beneficial for your beneficiaries because it means that they can use the payout without having to worry about paying taxes. There are some exceptions to this rule, however, such as if the insurance company suspects that you made a material misrepresentation on your application.

Coverage options

There are many different types of life insurance available, and the best one for you depends on your needs and budget. For example, you may want to buy a policy that pays out a large sum if you die suddenly or a smaller sum over a longer period of time. Some policies also include a cash-value component that can be used while you’re alive.

A life insurance policy is a contract between you and an insurance company. In exchange for premium payments, the company promises to pay a death benefit to your beneficiaries when you die. The contract can be a standalone policy or part of an estate-planning strategy. It can be an individual or group policy, and it may cover natural and accidental deaths. Some policies even offer living benefits, which pay out a portion of the death benefit to you if you are diagnosed with a critical or terminal illness.

The cost of your life insurance premiums depends on a variety of factors, including your age, health, and lifestyle. For example, younger people are less likely to die soon, so they usually pay less for life insurance than older people. Healthier people are also less expensive to insure because they’re less likely to need costly medical treatments. Nonsmokers and people without significant health problems tend to pay less for life insurance, too.

Some policies require a medical exam and ask detailed questions about your family history, health, and lifestyle. These are called underwritten life insurance policies. They generally have higher rates than those with streamlined underwriting, but they can still be competitively priced for healthy applicants.

Other policies, such as whole and universal life insurance, have a cash-value component that grows over time. They also have higher premiums than term life insurance, but they provide lifetime coverage and guaranteed death benefits.

The type of life insurance you purchase is important for your peace of mind. You can buy a policy online or from a life insurance agent, and you can also get a quote from your employer or a broker. Some people use the lump-sum payout from their life insurance policy to pay off a mortgage, cover funeral costs, or help children with college tuition. However, there are some limits on how you can use the death benefit, so make sure to review your policy carefully.

Premiums

A life insurance premium is the amount of money that you pay to your life insurance company in exchange for coverage. These payments are typically made on a monthly basis. They are based on your age, health status, and other factors that determine your death benefit. In addition, your lifestyle and habits can also affect how much your premium is. For example, smokers tend to pay more than non-smokers because they are considered at a greater risk of dying sooner than those who do not smoke.

In addition to the death benefit, a portion of the premiums is used to cover the insurer’s costs. This is because life insurance companies must maintain a certain level of cash reserves to pay out claims in the event of the policyholder’s untimely death. Some of these costs can include salaries, office space and legal fees. In addition, a percentage of the premium may be used to invest in the company’s business operations.

Premiums vary by type of policy and coverage amount. However, most policies have a minimum and maximum premium. In general, the higher the coverage amount, the more expensive the premium. In addition, premiums increase based on your age, health status, and other risks, such as occupation or high-risk hobbies.

While the cost of life insurance can seem daunting, it is important to consider your family’s financial needs and what would happen in the event of your death. Ultimately, it is an investment in the future of your loved ones.

While some of the factors that influence your life insurance premium are beyond your control, there are many things you can do to reduce your premium. For example, choosing to make annual rather than monthly payments can help you save on administrative fees. Alternatively, opting for whole life options with lower death benefit amounts can make your premiums less expensive. Another option is to look for policies that offer riders or optional coverage add-ons, such as accidental death and dismemberment. These features can enhance the value of your policy while reducing its overall cost.

Taxes

The taxation of life insurance is highly complex and can be subject to change. However, there are a few basic rules that apply to most life insurance policies:

The death benefit is generally not taxable as income. This applies to all types of life insurance, including term and whole life insurance. However, the beneficiary must report it as a capital gain or loss if they sell the policy or use it to pay estate taxes. In addition, a tax may be applied to life insurance proceeds that are paid to someone who has a “financial interest” in the insured, such as a spouse or employer.

Permanent life insurance policies typically have a cash value, which is a portion of the policy that earns tax-deferred interest. This portion of the policy is also available to be withdrawn or borrowed during your lifetime. The amount you withdraw or borrow is not taxable, but you will have to pay taxes on any amount above your policy’s “basis.” Your policy’s basis is the amount of premiums you’ve paid plus dividends. The portion of the cash value that’s taxable is based on investment returns, such as interest or gains.

In addition to withdrawals and loans, you can also surrender your life insurance for cash. The amount you receive is taxed based on your policy’s cost basis. For example, if you’ve paid $100,000 in premiums and have taken $70,000 in loans, the total cash value will be $100,000. The amount that’s taxable is the sum of all investment returns minus your cost basis.

There are a few exceptions to these rules, however. Some life insurance policies are “qualifying” and the proceeds are tax-free. These are mostly long-term contracts that have been in force for ten or more years. Other policies, such as single premium contracts or those with shorter terms, are not qualifying and the proceeds may be subject to income tax and/or capital gains tax. Regardless of the type of life insurance, you should always consult with a qualified tax advisor before making any decisions. They can help you understand the tax ramifications of your particular situation and provide the best advice.

What Does a Roofer Do?

by Posted in Roofing Tagged , , , ,

West Chester Roofers construct, repair, and install the roofs of buildings. They use various materials, including asphalt, rubber, and cedar shingles.

Local roofers often have lower overhead and can pass the savings on to homeowners. They can also be more flexible about scheduling.

Storm chasers focus on insurance work. After a major weather event, they will go door to door and offer to check out the damage.

Roofers provide a vital service, keeping everything from homes to hospitals protected and covered. They climb high heights and use various tools to install, repair, and replace roofs. They also perform preventative maintenance to ensure the roof remains in good condition. This is an in-demand career for the detail-oriented worker who wants to work outdoors and enjoys a daily challenge.

Roofers that a retail sales company employs can offer their customers more options, including different roofing materials and colors. Their sales presentations can be lengthy and may start with the highest-priced option first, but they are often willing to negotiate.

Many roofing professionals find success using social media to promote their services. Facebook, for example, has a large user base and offers a targeted paid ads system that can be especially useful to roofers in a specific area. In addition, Instagram is a great platform for showcasing before and after photos of completed roofing projects. Houzz, a home-focused social media platform, is another excellent resource for roofers to consider. This is because the platform offers homeowners a community to share their renovation projects. Roofers can also advertise exclusive discounts, services, and contests on social media to attract new customers.

Roofers install and repair the roofs of buildings. They use a variety of materials, including shingles and bitumen. A properly installed roof keeps water from leaking into the building and damaging its interior, equipment, and furnishings. Roofers also inspect and maintain roofs to determine if they need repair or replacement.

Roofer duties may include tearing off old roofing systems, installing new ones, and measuring, cutting, and shaping material to fit around vents, chimneys, gutters, and walls. They may also apply vapor barriers and insulation to improve the thermal efficiency of a roof. Roofers also collaborate with other construction professionals to ensure roofing tasks are completed correctly and promptly.

Some roofers specialize in shingle work, while others focus on other types of roofs or offer both insurance and non-insurance jobs. Regardless of their specialty, all roofers must be adept at using ladders to climb to the roof and perform repairs and installations. They must be familiar with the different types of roofs and the various roofing materials and be able to communicate effectively with clients.

Service companies usually charge higher prices than retail sales roofers, but they are more reliable and have a greater variety of options. They often have a dedicated point person on-site during the job and are available to answer questions, interface with the crew, and ensure you are satisfied with the results. They also usually have a larger service area and can handle insurance and non-insurance jobs.

In the roofing industry, the term “storm chaser” describes contractors who travel to areas recently hit by severe weather or other natural disasters and offer to repair roofs quickly at low prices. They often target homeowners with insurance claims for storm damage, and they may even be able to do the work at no cost to the homeowner if they collect a down payment. After the job is done, they move on to another area.

Storm chasers can be difficult to work with because they use high-pressure sales techniques and often push for immediate repairs. They also don’t usually follow up after the job is done, leaving the homeowner with a roof that might not be up to code or leaking. In some cases, storm chasers have even tried to force people into signing documents they don’t agree with, such as letting them onto their roofs to perform an inspection.

Some signs that you might be dealing with a storm chaser include:

1. They have generic names like “Number One Hail Experts.”

2. Their crew members need to wear company uniforms.

3. Their license plate is from another state or country.

4. They are willing to accept payment through an online service such as PayPal.

If you see any of these signs, staying away from that person or company is best. It would help if you always went with a local roofing company with a good community reputation and is committed to providing excellent customer service.

Storm chasing is not a legitimate roofing business, and it creates competition in the market that local roofers are already struggling with. This can drive up prices for homeowners, and it’s unfair to those who have worked hard to build their businesses. It is also a waste of resources, as establishing a successful roofing company takes time and effort. It would be better to invest that time and energy into building a solid foundation in the local community so you can help your neighbors when they need it rather than moving on to the next town after every bad storm.

Local companies offer the benefit of a long-term business partnership that fosters peace of mind for homeowners. They can provide annual roof inspections and be trusted with warranty issues. They can also be a great source of referrals.

If you are looking for a local roofer, choose one who can produce well-written, thorough estimates at home. This is almost always a sign that you are dealing with an actual hands-on roof installer rather than a middleman or commission salesperson.

Roofers are exposed to various hazards and must carry the proper insurance coverage. This includes general liability, workers’ compensation, and vehicle insurance. Getting a policy that protects against customer claims is also a good idea.

There are also specialty flashings, such as ridge cap flashing, installed at the roof’s peak to create a waterproof seal. Vent pipe flashing is another specialty that protects the roof where pipes penetrate it. Flashing also comes in different shapes and sizes to suit a particular situation, such as f-shaped drip edge flashing, which is often used on tile roofs, or valley flashing, which is often installed to protect the area where two different slopes of a roof meet.

Most flashing is made of metal, and the most common is galvanized steel. However, aluminum, lead, and other malleable materials may also be used for flashing. There are pros and cons to each type of material, and it depends on the situation and the environment in which the flashing will be installed.

For example, galvanized steel is an economical choice for most flashing applications because it’s inexpensive and durable. However, it can rust in salty seaside environments or when it comes into contact with masonry. Aluminum is another economical option, but it doesn’t last as long as copper or zinc alloy and requires coating to prevent corrosion. Lead is also a flexible material, but it’s less durable than other options and can leach toxic chemicals into the soil.

Although flashing doesn’t require regular maintenance, it should be inspected periodically for signs of damage or leaks. This includes checking for cupping shingles, swollen or sagging areas, rust stains, water stains in vulnerable or odd areas of the roof, and interior leaks. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to call a roofing contractor as soon as possible. They can better identify the source of the problem and repair or replace any damaged flashing.