Theoretical & Not Practical Assessment of Wood Shake Repair
The Hartford Insurance Company hired EFI Global to assess the wood shake roof damage to my house caused by a fallen Douglas Fir tree. On July 17, 2024 Mr. Francis Young Suk Kim, accompanied by his wife, did the inspection. Mr. Kim concluded that "One gouge and the damaged five rafters exhibited split, buckling, fracture, and cracks can be repaired by the replacement of five rafters. Replacement of these rafters will require corresponding replacement of skip sheathing, plywood (...) and wood shakes within rectangular section of the roof within 240 square feet (8 feet x 30 feet)." This conclusion does not tally with the assessment of 5 roofers and 3 structural firms who determined that the entire south side of the roof be replaced. They would not assume the liability and declined to bid stating that a partial repair on a wood shake roof will result in water leakage and wind damage. I decided to follow their advice and replace the entire roof. Despite the hours spent on the inspection, Mr. Kim failed to note a broken vent pipe which was brought to my attention by the structural firm doing the repairs. It is unfortunate that despite impressive credentials, Mr. Kim's assessment appears more theoretical than practical. Based on this experience I do not recommend the services provided by EFI Global.