The roof of a home is one of the main components to help keep your family and belongings safe. Roofs take a beating year-round and it’s only normal for them to age and show signs of deterioration after some years. After all, they are constantly exposed to varying degrees of elements. Strong winds, the hot sun, heavy rains, and massive snowfalls can create significant roof leaks which can lead to damage to your home’s interior.
Elements that Contribute to Roof Damage
Most homeowners are not thinking about the deterioration and damage their roof endures throughout the year until it’s too late. The vast majority of roof damage begins with weather-related events. Harsh weather will cause your shingles to deteriorate much sooner than expected, but it isn’t the only cause of roof damage. Below is a list of the most common causes of roof deterioration.
1. Water
The number one enemy of your roof is water. The structure of your roof is specifically designed to repel water. However, a heavy downpour can wear down the protective layer of your roof and expose the shingles. That’s where water does the most damage.
2. Hail
Hail may not fall every day, but when it does, it can be very harmful to your roof. Hail can leave dents in your shingles. The effect isn’t that apparent, but those dents can dislodge the small protective granules. These granules protect your roof from UV Rays and aid in the shedding of water.
If those granules get destroyed or damaged, it leaves your roof vulnerable to much more serious damage and reduces the life expectancy of your shingles. If you have been in a storm with hail, get your roof inspected. Hail damage is typically covered by homeowners’ insurance.
3. Wind
Strong winds can lift the edges of your shingles or blow them completely off. This leaves the roof susceptible to water damage and structural deterioration. These winds also typically carry debris that can wedge under and damage your shingles. Be sure to have your roof inspected after windy storms for debris and any missing shingles.
4. Sun
Exposure to constant and intense UV rays and IR radiation can cause thermal expansion in your shingles leading them to break down over time. The sunny weather is enjoyable, but you must always remember that it can erode your roof.
5. Overgrown Trees, Lichen, and Leaves
Trees that have grown to the point where they are touching your roof can cause serious issues. They can inhibit water drainage and fallen branches could eventually damage your shingles.
As leaves fall off the tree, they will eventually get pushed into your gutter, blocking the flow of excess water leaving your roof. That excess water can build-up, allowing more moisture to seep into the framework of your roof causing rot and other issues.
Lichen can be acidic. When it penetrates your shingles, they break down and expose your roof. Keep an eye out for moss and algae growing on your roof. That can be an eyesore but can also aid in the development of rot.
6. Damaged Components
Shingles, underlayment, flashing, and sealants can get damaged due to various reasons. When your shingles lose layers of protection, the other roof components will eventually start failing, exposing your roof to greater risks.
7. Condensation
The condition of your attic has an impact on your roof as well. If your attic is poorly ventilated, it is more likely to be prone to condensation. Condensation in the attic can lead to rotting, which usually allows water infiltration. Once water makes its way through the roof, its structural integrity could be compromised.
8. Neglect
Proper maintenance can go a long way in preventing roof damage. By simply cleaning your roof and gutters, you can keep dirt and debris from building up and causing issues. However, leaving your roof unchecked for years can shorten its lifespan.
9. Pests
When it comes to roof damage, the pests you should be concerned about are birds, squirrels, and rats. These animals will have no trouble making their way up your siding or through your gutters, and they may ultimately decide to nest on your roof. They can burrow through your roofing shingles and eventually into your home.
Got Roof Damage?
Roof damage can be hard to detect if you’re not trained on what to look for. It can also be dangerous to climb up on the roof yourself to inspect it without having the proper tools and equipment.
Brian Dawson Roofing has several years of industry experience. We can advise you on ways to prevent issues, as well as repair and replace your roof, if necessary. We guarantee top-notch results that will meet your needs and requirements.
Schedule an inspection today and extend the lifespan of your roof.