How to inspect your roof for storm or hail damage.

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When it comes to the roof, a heavy storm can leave homeowners scratching their heads as to whether or not they’ve incurred damage. The following are a few easy methods to determine if parts of your roof have gone rogue or remained pristine. And you don’t necessarily have to climb a ladder to do it; sometimes a pair of binoculars and a pair of sharp eyes work best.

Damage to Vents are an easy indicator of hail damage
Spotting dents in your vents is a great indicator that your roof has taken some hail damage.
Spot Shingle Damage Easily
The black marks on these shingles indicate areas where damage has occurred. A professional roofing company will mark and count the number of damaged areas.
Professional Damage Assessment Overview
Insurance companies will use a professional assessment to see how much damage has occurred to the entire roof.
Professional Damage Assesment
A good contractor will climb up on the roof and identify spots where damage has occurred by outlining damage with chalk.

Look for missing or creased shingles.

Although these signs are not always obvious and usually require a professional inspection, whenever a gap or unsightly groove in your shingles is in plain view, it’s a telltale sign that it might be time for a new roof.

Look for granules that have been washed or forced off your roof.

These granules normally protect the asphalt layer under your shingles from UV damage, and losing them not only indicates damage, but also speeds the aging of your roof. You’ll spot them in your driveway or your gutters if there’s been damage.

Check if other parts of your home, yard, or car have hail or storm damage.

If they do, your roof most likely needs replacement. The roof has a vast amount of surface area and often receives the heftiest brunt of a storm. Think of any adjacent storm damage on your property as “symptoms” that can diagnose the wellness of your roof.

Look at your own neighborhood.

If your neighbors are having their roof replaced, or roofing contractors are suddenly visiting your neighborhood, there’s a good chance you’ve sustained damage.

While these are a few simple DIY tips that could save you time and possibly alleviate some concerns, you can always call the experts at Total Construction Services for a free assessment and the most capable, experienced craftsmen giving your roof the utmost scrutiny. Serving Omaha, Papillion, La Vista and surrounding areas since 1987.

402.572.7457 | mytotalconstruction.com

Maintenance is a must for your Omaha roof

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With the potential for hail storms to roll through greater Omaha, your roof is in constant danger of bombardment. Thinking that your roof suffered damage in a storm and calling for an inspection isn’t always enough to warrant an insurance claim. Many insurance companies look at a variety of factors when determining if insurance will cover damage.

1. How wide spread was the hail damage?

Damage to a singular roof in your Omaha neighborhood or area might raise a red flag for insurance companies. If a number of residents from a particular area all file claims, insurance companies are more likely to approve the claim for your property. It is important to speak with neighbors in your vicinity, if you think you have any hail damage to your Omaha roofing.

2. Negligence is cause for denial.

Just about all insurance policies imply that it is the homeowners responsibility to provide routine maintenance. If your Omaha roofing was in need of repair prior to a storm, an insurance company can deny your claim based on the lack of care. Often times insurance companies do not want to pay for the cost of an entire new roof, so showing that you provide routine maintenance (fixing leaks, address damage as it occurs) can increase your standing with your insurance company.

3. Have a certified 3rd party look at your roof!

At Total Construction Services, we have HAAG certified inspectors who are trained to examine and estimate the amount of damage and the work required to fix your Omaha roofing. We work directly with insurance adjusters, providing inspection services and estimates upon request of insurance providers.

402.572.7457 | mytotalconstruction.com

Ice Damming Causes Roof Damage in Omaha

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After the latest bombardment of snow storms, many households throughout the Omaha area had to deal with ice damming. Those nasty icicles, and the inches of snow that create them, can seriously challenge your roofing installation. After the snow melts, it is important to inspect your Omaha roof for damage.

Often times, these storms shed light on poorly installed skylights. After the melt, check the skylights for signs of leaking. Improper insulation, bad installation, as well as other factors, play a role in leaking and should be addressed immediately.

It is also important to inspect your roofing for warping. Warping indicates that the wood underneath the shingles may be compromised, creating a serious issue. Peeling, or bubbling, shingles are another sign that your roofing need attention.

If you think your roof has some damage, call your insurance provider to have the roof inspected. Total Construction Services in Omaha can inspect your roof as well. Our HAAG certified inspectors are a trusted source for insurance agents. We can diagnosis damage and provide a course of action to help protect your home.

Call us today 402.572.7457. | www.mytotalconstruction.com

The surprise storms that shook eastern Nebraska—and the aftermath

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It caused millions of dollars in damage. It leveled nearly half a town’s homes and businesses—including a whole school and a church—and caused grief and suffering for many Nebraskans. It even led federal warning coordination meteorologist, Greg Carbin, to coin the phrase “Nebraska Nasty”.

According to the Omaha World-Herald, the June weather of 2014—with its wildly destructive hailstorms and tornadoes—placed our state on the list of the nation’s most remarkable weather of 2014. It’s a distinction that is as tragic as it is unexaggerated. After all, four EF4 tornadoes occurred in Nebraska in one day. Much of the town of Pilger, NE, was leveled by tornadoes, while other towns, such as Blair, were pummeled by softball-sized hailstones being hurled by winds up to 90 mph.

It’s a disaster still being felt by many nearly eight months later.

But thankfully, progress is returning. A growing number of Pilger’s 73 homes that were destroyed are now being rebuilt, and Blair’s once 550 building permits have skyrocketed to nearly 5,000.

For towns like Pilger and Blair, top-level contractors are more necessary than ever. And that’s why Total Construction is once again on the scene, working closely with insurance companies and homeowners alike to provide solutions and the peace of mind that comes from experience.

When storms hit, we act.

Total Construction Services carries a strong history of expert repair amidst the worst storm damages suffered by Nebraska homeowners. Just as we’ve been widely present in the wake of last year’s terrible streak of storms, we’re also equipped for whatever 2015 can deliver—and ready to combat the Midwest’s unruly storms with decades of hardened Nebraska experience.

We know construction—and insurance.

With an In-House Insurance Claims Center, Total Construction works with adjustors from several insurance companies year-round. We can expertly address every need and concern—down to the slightest detail—with a strong local knowledge of the best materials and best practices to do repairs right the first time. Our job is to make the process seamless between adjustor and homeowner, leaving both parties satisfied.

Nobody wants disaster to strike. But when it does, we’re here to help with our comprehensive approach to service that has twice earned us the Better Business Bureau Integrity Award. We can help you restore the calm after the storm.

402.572.7457 | mytotalconstruction.com

Total Construction gives WWII vet special treatment with roof

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While nothing compares to the great sacrifices our vets have made for our country, the least we can do at Total Construction is provide a minor sacrifice of our own. Take Ted Williams, for example-a WWII Marine Corps veteran and Harlan, IA resident, who needed roof repair in the aftermath of recent hailstorms.

He not only deserved a good new roof, but some special treatment to go with it.

The latest effort in Total Construction’s mission to assist veterans throughout the Midwest, our first step was to provide Mr. Williams with GAF roofing products. These high-end products can only be installed by North America’s top 3% of roofing contractors–a ranking that was hard earned by our company.

Our second step? Gift him with a rebate of $250 and a long-lasting roof warranty.

This is not only a heartfelt thank you for Mr. Williams’ military service, but also a token of our partnership with the GAF’s Roof for Troops promotion, which provides enhanced products and benefits to all veterans and service members, active and non-active, of all branches.

To further lend support to those who have served, Total Construction is also an accepted builder for the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program, which secures further benefits and financial backing to make home ownership more accessible for our servicemen and women.

Ted WIlliams received a new roof with some well-deserved benefits

Total Construction Services would like to thank Mr. Williams for his service to our great nation, so we can enjoy our freedom. At the very least, he should be able to enjoy a sound roof over his home. The same goes for any veterans in need.

If you’re a veteran looking to have questions answered about your home–as well as any homeowner in search of repair from storm damage, hail damage or otherwise–call the experts serving the Midwest since 1987.

To those who serve and have served, thank you.

402.572.7457 | mytotalconstruction.com

Basement flooding and mold: what you should know.

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Given this season’s torrential rains, a majority of homeowners in the Midwest have experienced water in their basements—which also leads to a buildup of mold resulting from the moisture. Thankfully there’s no reason to be concerned if you know what to do. Whether you have obvious sightings of mold or you’re unsure and need a proper assessment, here are a few pieces of wisdom that will help you get back to normal—quickly.

Consult a water damage and mold remediation professional.

Mold is a notoriously resilient, airborne-prone fungus. That’s why it’s important to never disturb any mold growth visible on your home’s infrastructure, and never trust any DIY mold removal kits on the market, which often prove ineffective. In these cases, a professional is best instead of trying to tackle it yourself—namely, a full-service construction contractor who has experience with household mold and water damage repair.

An experienced professional will ensure you receive thorough mold remediation, from a knowledgeable expert that knows how to detect the presence of mold throughout your home and eradicate it using the proper equipment.

Above all, the best option is prevention.

Even if you’re unsure whether you have mold, or your home seems unaffected by this season’s downpours, remember: a professional can also offer a thorough inspection and preventive consultation to ensure that your home is free of unwarranted moisture. A mold-free home is a healthy one.

Unexpected water or mold in the home can lead to further problems. But thankfully, it’s also one of the fastest and easiest issues to alleviate in the hands of proper professionals.

For mold remediation and repair across Omaha, Papillion, La Vista and Bellevue, you can always call the experts serving the Metro since 1987.

Out with the mold, in with the new!

402.572.7457 | mytotalconstruction.com

5 things to consider when deciding on a new roof

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When it’s time for a new roof, it’s also time to know a few tricks of the trade that will make your experience far easier. From enhancing the protective qualities of your roof, to lowering overall costs, you can prepare yourself with these five useful tips.

1) Alternative shingles are becoming the new trend.
While, of course, several homes still use wooden shingles, a growing amount are switching to alternatives that include concrete slate-type shingles and polymer plastic shingles, to name a few—not only for their homes, but for their insurance companies who highly approve. Ask a contractor about the non-flammable rating as well as options that are class 4 impact-resistant, which may qualify you for insurance discounts up to 30% or more. In the event of hail, a class 4 may even, in certain instances, cause insurers to waive your deductible.

2) Qualifications.
When selecting a roofing contractor, nothing outshines the competition like industry awards and local customer testimonials. Seek them both. In terms of quality, if the roofer has achieved GAF Master Elite Status, that already places them among the top 3% in North America. It’s simple: when you research a company, research its honors and distinctions as well.

3) Emergency response.
Another important factor to look for: experience. It’s always good to have a veteran roofing contractor holstered and ready in the event of emergency storm damage. Decades of regional experience show that they can work gracefully in the aftermath of a storm while being especially prepared for everything the local climate can deliver. Another sound indicator of good service? An in-house Insurance Claims Division that works directly with insurance to save you money—while saving you needless paperwork.

4) Double check your home’s insurance policy.
If you live where hail occurs more often—the Midwest being a prime example—a shorter lifespan on a roof is a common occurrence. While most insurance companies offer good comprehensive service, be proactive and educate yourself by looking for any changes in your renewal policy that may include:

  • Refusal to cover roofs over a certain age (like 10 years)
  • Adding a separate hail deductible that’s subtracted from what you’re paid on a hail claim
  • Excluding cosmetic damage like dents in metal roofs, siding, or copper trim
  • Not covering roofs made from obsolete shingles (thus making it different to buy replacement shingles)
  • Doing partial roof repairs instead of replacing your whole roof (possibly leaving you with a patch that’s different color than your original roof)

5) Warranty.
Of course, good roofing companies offer a long-lasting roof warranty, which is a prime indicator that they stand behind their level of quality.

Serving the Metro and beyond since 1987, Total Construction is prepared to handle all your needs—even if you just have questions.

402.572.7457 | mytotalconstruction.com

We handle insurance claims

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After storm, water, or fire, damages your home, you should call us at Total Construction Services. We routinely work with insurance companies to provide accurate inspections and estimates, and work tirelessly to get your home back to normal.

In 2013 we handled claims from
• Allstate
• American Family
• Farmers
• The Hartford
• Nationwide
• Travelers
• State Farm
• USAA

In 2013 Total Construction Services handled over 1,500 claims in the metro alone.
Your provider not on the list? Ask your agent about Total Construction Services.

And if you are worried about hiring the right company…

Storm damage? Avoid a waiting list.

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If hail or high winds have affected your property, don’t fret—expert repair services are available to you at a minimal wait. Total Construction is operating at fuller strength than ever to address this season’s first wave of major storms. From handling homeowner’s claims across Omaha, to claims across the Midwest including the aftermath in Red Oak, Iowa, our company carries the proven capacity and experience necessary to get you back to normal fast—wherever you live, whenever a storm hits.

Want efficiency? Seek experience first.

To ensure that we can serve you quickly—and complete the job thoroughly—our fleet operates in conjunction with our in-house insurance claims center and veteran estimators. It’s a one-two punch of experience that can expertly address both your property needs and all paperwork that arises. We’re also affiliated with a network of top third party roofers in the nation, giving us greater experience handling emergency situations and providing faster—yet finer—repairs to each home we serve. We can eliminate the obstacles that often cause delays or discrepancies in the repair process. It’s a part of our skillset.

Want more proof? Seek awards.

Total Construction has been serving Omaha and surrounding areas for 27 years. In that time, we’ve been awarded the Better Business Bureau Integrity Award and been honored as a GAF Master Elite roofing contractor—a feat that only 3% of North America’s roofing contractors have ever achieved. Add that to a list of satisfied customer testimonials that continues to grow.

When a storm hits, it’s our duty to inform you that better options are available. Because we’ve seen the grief a damaged home can cause—but moreover, seen the joy when a home is well repaired, on time.

402.572.7457 | mytotalconstruction.com

A trend that’s lowering premiums and growing fast.

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Alternative shingles can lower premiums and lessen storm damage.

Modern-day homeowners (thanks to modern technology) are catching on to an emerging piece of wisdom in the construction world: a roof can now provide more than just protection. It can also lower insurance costs, resist fire, resist the impact of hail and enjoy greater longevity.

In other words, the age of traditional wooden shingles (or “shake” shingles) is slowly giving way to alternative shingles that are better for the home and the wallet. And that’s exactly why new-option shingles are fast becoming a trend: there’s no sacrifice on safety, quality, value or aesthetical appeal. It’s a win-win—and then some.

The alternative to wooden shingles: a new tradition for homeowners.

While, of course, several homes still use wooden shingles, an increasing amount are switching to alternatives that include concrete slate-type shingles and polymer plastic shingles, to name a few—not only for their homes, but for their insurance companies who highly approve.

How you can educate yourself.
If you’re looking for proof or where to begin, start by asking the right questions. You can ask a qualified construction contractor about the non-flammable rating when looking at potential shingle alternatives. You can also ask for options that are class 4 impact-resistant, which may qualify you for insurance discounts up to 30% or more. In certain hail events, insurers are even known to waive your deductible if you use class 4 shingles.

It’s also good to check with your homeowner’s association for the neighborhood standards when it comes to roofs. Older neighborhoods may use neutral tones (which alternative shingling can often match in color). But newer neighborhoods, at a growing rate, are exploring bolder, more colorful options than the earthy monotones of the past. Gone are the days of cookie-cutter roofs. Variety is becoming the new standard.

But above all else, a better roof is all about the insurability and longevity of your home. And that’s something that all homeowners can agree on.

For more information on exploring roofing alternatives and lowering insurance premiums, you can always call the experts at Total Construction serving the metro since 1987.

402.572.7457 | mytotalconstruction.com