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Community Corner

Local Owens Corning Experts Provide Tips on Detecting and Fixing Roof Damage after Recent Storm

The storms have passed and now it’s time to clean up the damage. While torn or missing shingles are clear signs of storm damage, not all destruction is that obvious. In fact, hidden roof damage can cause problems weeks or even months down the road. Local experts from Owens Corning provide tips to determine whether a roof repair is in your forecast and if so, how to identify a trusted contractor to fix it fast.

“When a storm damages your roof, it’s hard to know what to do next,” said Lindsey Switzer, area sales manager, Owens Corning Roofing. “We can help homeowners find the calm after the storm and guide them every step of the way, from assessing roof damage and selecting a trusted contractor, to choosing the proven products that can help protect them from the next storm.”

Assessing the Damage

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When assessing a storm’s damage, you should never get up on the roof yourself. But there are many inspections you can do from the ground. Hail storms can bruise roof shingles, causing an indentation that may be hard to see, but that can crack the shingle and allow water to infiltrate over time.  Missing shingles can lead to leaks and other interior damage. So first and foremost, check for missing shingles when assessing for roof damage.

Dented gutters and loose or missing weather stripping may also point to hidden shingle damage. In addition, fallen limbs, which may have hit the roof, are another warning sign of potential damage. Inside the home, check ceilings and light fixtures for signs of water and inspect the attic closely. If damage is suspected, call a professional immediately.

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Selecting a Contractor

In the aftermath of a storm there is often a sea of contractors offering their services, making it difficult to know where to turn for trusted work. Begin your search for a preferred contractor by asking friends and neighbors for recommendations and checking roofing manufacturers’ websites for partner contractors.

“Choosing a contractor you can trust is one of the most important parts of the roof repair process,” said Carpenter. “Your contractor is your partner in providing the products, systems and warranties that will help protect you from future storms.”

These are the key qualities to consider when looking for a trustworthy contractor:

·   Good standing with the Better Business Bureau

·   Holds at least $1 million in general liability insurance

·   Carries all required state and local licensing

·   Possesses dedication to superior craftsmanship

·   Has knowledge of the latest industry standards and    technologies

·   Offers extended warranties to ensure the most value for your  long-term investment

Owens Corning™ Roofing Preferred and Platinum Preferred Contractors can provide trusted, expertise amid a sea of competing voices during the very hectic and critical post-storm repair period. These professionals bring experience and insight to any job because they have been specially trained and certified to install Owens Corning roofing products, ensuring an excellent level of quality. Only our Preferred and Platinum Preferred Contractors can offer Owens Corning extended Roofing System Limited Warranties.

While roof repair or replacement after a storm may be unfamiliar territory, it doesn’t have to be worrisome.  To find a certified roofing contractor, visit www.owenscorning.com/storm or follow us on Twitter at @OCDentonTX for more localized information.  

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About Owens Corning
Owens Corning (NYSE: OC) is a leading global producer of residential and commercial building materials, glass-fiber reinforcements and engineered materials for composite systems. A Fortune 500® company for 59 consecutive years, Owens Corning is committed to driving sustainability by delivering solutions, transforming markets and enhancing lives. In business for more than 75 years, Owens Corning is a market-leading innovator of glass-fiber technology with sales of $5.3 billion in 2013 and about 15,000 employees in 27 countries. Additional information is available at www.owenscorning.com.

MEDIA CONTACT: DeAnna Starn, Owens Corning, (419) 248-5667; DeAnna.Starn@owenscorning.com 
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