Your roof is the part of your home that is taken for granted the most. Roofs are usually neglected and forgotten about until minor damages that went unnoticed become major problems that can’t be ignored. By the time roofing problems are visible, they may have already caused a bunch of other issues.
No matter how durable your roof was when it was installed, years of constantly being worn away by nature and improper or insufficient maintenance will eventually cause it to degrade. There are many easily observed signs of roof problems, but by the time you notice them, it may be too late for an easy fix.
Top Roofing Concerns of Most Homeowners
Roof problems can be a nightmare for homeowners, as they lead to costly and time-consuming repairs. Knowing what to look for and how to prevent problems can help you to avoid expensive repairs and significant headaches. It’s important to know about some of the most common roof problems.
1. Leaks, moisture, interior water spots. Even a well-constructed roof can incur damage from wind, rain, snow, or hail. All of these weather elements can start to warp your roof over time. When moisture gets under the layers of your roof, you will see leaks, begin to smell mildew, and see water spots on the ceiling.
Water damage does not have to just be on the ceiling; it’s common for leaks to be noticed along the walls, as well. Once you start seeing water spots indoors, it is time to call in a roofing expert.
2. Missing or broken shingles. If parts of shingles are randomly showing up in your yard or you have noticed dark areas on your roof where a shingle used to be, it is an easy problem to fix if you catch it early. Missing shingles are usually caused due to the sealant that keeps the underside attached to your roof wearing off.
When the sealant strip becomes damaged, either by rodents or weather, your shingles will start to peel off. They may break in parts that you’ll find dispersed in your yard, or they may come off completely in one piece.
3. Pooling and stagnant water. When gutters are clogged or piles of debris catch puddles of water, moisture collects and forms pooling water that sits on top of your roof. The standing moisture can turn into mold and mildew and can eat away at the roofing material, causing leaks.
4. Poorly installed roofs. Installing a new roof can be one of the most expensive home renovations you will ever have to do. When it’s done right, your roof will last you a long time. Improper installation or repairs, trying to fix roof problems on your own, or hiring a contractor who uses inferior materials can cause serious damage to your roof.
Never attempt roof repairs on your own. In the long run, getting repairs done by a reputable professional will save you money and headaches. Poorly installed roofs often lead to bigger expenses down the road.
5. Damaged flashing. To keep water out and moisture damage at bay, flashing is installed to seal areas around vent pipes, skylights, HVAC systems, and chimneys. If the flashing is damaged or poorly installed, it can become detached and lead to leaks.
6. Animals. Pests like raccoons, squirrels, mice, birds, and insects might find your roof to be an attractive place to make their homes. Some animals like squirrels can gnaw through the side of your roof, while others can squeeze into tight holes leading to damage. Animal infestations might be a sign of other roof problems that you may need to get checked out.
7. Poor maintenance. You should get regular maintenance on your roof for many reasons. If you have your roof inspected regularly, it’ll be easy to catch damage or problems early before they become more costly issues.
Roof maintenance is worth it to save money in the long run. Preventative maintenance can take care of leaks, loose flashing, damaged or missing shingles, and a host of other problems. These common issues can be fixed at a fraction of the cost of a full roof repair or replacement.
Professional Roofing Solutions
Your roof is by far one of the most important parts of your home, as it prevents damage and protects the rest of your house. If your roof is damaged, it’s important to hire a certified roofing professional to take care of it.
Brian Dawson Roofing is happy to provide roof inspections to catch any issues before they become major problems.