What should you know about roof repair in Decatur, GA?
Short answer. Decatur roofs are often on older bungalows and additions under big hardwood trees, so repairs commonly involve chimney flashing, low-slope porch or addition roofs, valleys clogged with leaves, and limb damage. Hire a licensed, insured roofer who photographs the problem, and check whether your address is in the City of Decatur or unincorporated DeKalb County, since that decides who issues permits.
Common Decatur roof issues
- Chimneys: many older homes have masonry chimneys with tired step flashing and no cricket.
- Additions and porches: low-slope sections tied into steeper roofs are frequent leak points. Asphalt shingles are not allowed below a 2 in 12 slope under the International Residential Code, and slopes from 2 in 12 up to 4 in 12 need double underlayment, so flatter areas need a membrane roof instead.
- Tree canopy: oak and pine debris clogs valleys and gutters, and storm limbs crack decking.
- Multiple layers: some older roofs have two layers of shingles, which affects whether a repair will hold.
Permits and historic districts
The City of Decatur and DeKalb County each run their own building departments, and the city has local historic districts where material changes may need review. Like-for-like repairs are usually simple; switching materials on a historic home is worth a phone call first. See roofing permits in Georgia.
Choosing a roofer
- Photos of the problem before any work.
- A clear scope that replaces failed flashing instead of caulking over it.
- Proof of insurance and a written repair warranty.
- No offers to waive your deductible, which is illegal in Georgia.
For tree-related problems, see trees and your roof, and for chimneys, chimney leaks and crickets.