Signs That Indicate Roofing Problems
Your roof is probably one of your most important investments. It protects your family and belongings from the elements and keeps you comfortable. However, most people do not pay attention to their roofs unless there is a problem. No matter how durable your roof was when you had it installed, over time, it will suffer and tear.
To ensure your family’s safety and save yourself from future costs, it is better to look for signs that indicate roofing problems. Inspecting roof on a regular basis can help you to avoid major problems later on. Following is a list of some of the most common roofing problems that we come across. If you notice any of these, call up your roofing contractor right away.
Damaged shingles
Sometimes, it happens that you lose a few shingles and don’t even notice it. It is not uncommon to have damaged shingles due to extreme weather conditions such as rainstorms and heavy winds. Damages and blown-off shingles can render the roof unstable.
Leaks
This is the single most common problem that homeowners face. The most common spots on the roof where leaks occur are at flashing points, close to pipes and vents, and around chimneys and gutters. If you notice black marks, stains, or mold growth, it is a clear sign of a leak. Sometimes, the moisture build-up can occur even without a leak being present. However, when moisture is ignored, it can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which in turn can cause rot. This can get into the walls as well and pose a risk to the entire structure.
Damaged flashing
The metal edges used to seal the edges of the roof and other vulnerable areas such as vents and chimneys are referred to as flashing. It is made of sturdy and durable material to prevent leaks in vulnerable areas. However, when the flashing breaks or become warped, it can expose the joints and seams of your roof. This can lead to serious problems.
Damaged gutters
Gutters are probably the most ignored part of a home. However, damaged or clogged gutters or downspouts can spell tragedy for your roof and home. When the gutters are damaged, water will land in all the wrong places and cause damage to the structure and property. It is important to have the gutters fixed, unclogged, or repaired before they cause damage.
Freezing damages
In areas that get a lot of snow and ice, roofs tend to bear the brunt. Due to extremely cold weather, roofing problems are more common in these areas. When the ice melts, it does so at a slow rate and does not run off fast enough.
Stagnant water can penetrate the roof and cause water damage. This water can also freeze again, expand, and push against the shingles. This can cause further water damage. While you cannot fight the elements, you can regularly check your roof for any signs of freezing damage.
In many cases, roofing problems can also arise from material and installation issues. If the shingles were not installed properly or you chose the wrong material for the weather conditions in your area, you will be facing lot more roofing problems than you should. This is the reason why you should only work with a certified and experienced roofing contractor.
If you are noticing any roofing problems, do not ignore them even if they seem minor. Also, a periodic roof inspection is necessary to identify problems when they are still small and manageable. Call up a professional roofing company as soon as you notice a problem.
