When you notice an unsightly shingle on your roof, it’s time to call the professionals in for repairs. Although you can’t know the extent of the damage until you’ve had a roofing contractor examine it, the solution is usually replacing the single broken shingle. However, given the condition of your roof, you may be able to get more than a small repair. According to Marshall’s Contracting, there are a number of factors that could lead to a complete roof replacement. Based in Clarksville, MD, this family-owned and -operated business has been trusted throughout Howard and the neighboring counties for more than 35 years, and they want you to know how certain regulations could work in your favor.

For safety purposes, there are stringent guidelines regarding roofing and home improvement services in general. In America, most of this is established in the International Business Code, (IBC) and it covers everything from the wind resistance to the size of the fastenings. Each state builds on this with its own additional specifications, and in Maryland, their roofing policy covers everything from insulation, flashing, and even newer green roofing systems. Although these parameters seem strict, they are constantly refined for maximum protection, which works in the homeowner’s favor.

The high standards are what give homeowners a roof replacement, especially if their roof is quite old. As laid out by the Maryland Insurance Administration, “If your home was not built to the current local building code standards, you may be required to rebuild the damaged sections according to current codes.” By addressing the problem of just one shingle, you may discover the roofing is not up to code and will need to be updated!

Of course, insurance is another key component. Some policies are more lax than others, and if that’s the case, an errant, shingle may be what gets you a roof replacement. In another document the Maryland Insurance Administration states that “if the policy does not contain exclusion for ‘mismatches’, and it provides replacement cost coverage, the insurer may have to pay additional amounts when settling the claim.” Although it seems superficial, dealing with a mismatch goes beyond repairing an eyesore and could indicate any like old building materials or slow spreading damage.

If you’re in Central Maryland and happen to spot problems with your shingles or would like to know more about roof replacement, contact Marshall’s Contracting. With three decades of experience, this licensed, insured, and bonded business can help you with any of your roofing issues. To learn more about their services, visit the website. If you call them today at (410) 406-7667, you can even get a free estimate.