A Look Into Common Roof Problems
With winter approaching, it’s wise to make sure your roof is in pristine shape. You should know what to look for if you want to make informed decisions about your roof. Find out how to solve common roof problems, as well as some other useful tips.
The Most Common Roof Problems
A roofing system has many components, but most problems occur due to one of three factors: manufacturing defects, installation mistakes, and Mother Nature.
Manufacturing Defects
A vast improvement has been made in how roofing materials are designed and manufactured by manufacturers. However, there are products on the market that are of higher quality than others, and this is one of the many causes of common roof problems. A thick and well-made shingle will resist damage and last longer than a thin, cheaply manufactured one.
Improper Installation
When choosing the contractor who will install your roof, you should do plenty of research. The wrong one may result in the incorrect installation of your roof. Your new roof will be severely affected by leaks and other damage when this happens. Quality, experienced contractors do the job right the first time around.
Mother Nature
Roofs are affected most by the weather. There is always some sort of damage due to the harsh summer sun, thunderstorms with high winds and debris, and icy winter conditions that affect roofing materials. Older roofs can be particularly vulnerable to hail damage because they aren’t built to withstand the force. The hail marks caused by hail cause moisture to leak through the underlayers of the roof, causing extensive damage to the roof. Every time there is a rainstorm, the protective granules on the shingles wear away, exposing the shingles to more damage and decay. In addition, high winds can cause the shingles to break or fall off.
Poor Ventilation
The right ventilation prevents moisture and humidity from building up and causing mold and mildew to grow. Having mold and mildew in your house can lead to spores from mold spreading throughout the house, posing health risks. In addition, poor ventilation can cause rot. Rot compromises the roof’s integrity and can seep into the walls of the home.
Damaged Trees
Shade trees prevent excessive ultraviolet light from damaging shingles by blocking the sun’s rays and keeping it from beating down on the roof. The life of the roofing system will be significantly shortened, however, if branches contact the roof. Any roof-related issues you may have with trees on your property will be detected by quality roofing contractors.
Inadequate Maintenance
Your roofing contractor can identify damaged areas of your roof through an annual inspection. The problem of a blemish on a roof can easily turn into a structural problem and be much more expensive to fix. After severe weather, it is necessary to have the roof inspected. A professional roofing contractor can spot minor damage before it becomes a bigger problem, even if you are not able to see it.
Signs Your Roof Needs To Be Replaced
Take a look at this list if you want to learn when you should replace your roof. The most common reasons to replace a roof are detailed here.
Your Roof Is Old
Roofs all wear out eventually. Over the course of 20 to 30 years, a roof suffers from issues due to sun, wind, rain, hail, and snow. Metal roofs last longer than most, so if you have one, you’re in luck.
It Has Water Damage
If you notice moisture buildup in your attic or upstairs rooms, there’s a high likelihood that there are problems with the roof. The roof can also contribute to water damage on the inside of the house.
You Find Cracks and Holes
Your roof can develop cracks and holes as it ages and is exposed to the elements. In some cases, repairs are necessary, but the damage can be so extensive that it requires a complete roof replacement.
Sagging Is Apparent
Sagging roofs are a sure sign that moisture has penetrated the structure of the roof and has caused it to buckle under the weight of the roof. The roof and supporting structures should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent collapse.
You Have Bad Valleys
It is common for water to collect in valleys formed by intersecting roofs. The valley allows water to flow rapidly and easily off the roof when the roof is installed properly. However, improper installation or aging can result in problems requiring replacement.
There Is Damaged Flashing
Metal flashings are used to cover roofing structures, such as chimneys, vents, and skylights. Flashing caulk used to waterproof the area can dry out and crack, causing leaks. It can also be damaged by debris. The flashing must also be installed correctly in order to prevent leaks.
You’ve Found Mold and Rot
Spores of mold can damage the lungs, posing a health risk to humans. The presence of mold is also an indication that the roof does not keep moisture out. This can cause wood to rot. Any rotted wood found on a roof will be repaired or replaced by contractors.
You Notice Standing Water
Using downspouts and gutters, the roof is able to keep water away from the home. If there is standing water on any part of a roof system, this indicates that some component of that system has failed and must be addressed as soon as possible.
Your Gutters Are Clogged
Rain gutters clogged with debris retain moisture that adversely affects the roofing system. Having clogged gutters increases the possibility of mildew and moss, which thrive in moist areas, but clogged gutters also increase the risk of leaks.
There Are Attic Leaks
The presence of leaks in the attic is often a sign that it is time to replace the roof. A roof with an attic leak might only have damage to a small area that can be easily repaired. Attic leaks in older roofs, however, are more likely to require a roof replacement.
There’s Been Storm Damage
It is the responsibility of homeowners following a storm to call their roofing contractor for an inspection, especially if the storm includes hail or high winds that can blow debris into the roof and cause major damage. The most common roof problem that we see is damage due to storms.
Final Words
Regardless of whether you’re noticing these common roof problems with your roof or not, call us today at (636) 699-0449 and schedule an inspection. Stay on track with regular maintenance to get the most life out of your roof.