10 Most Common Roof Problems

Common roof problems

The roof provides protection to the most precious asset you own i.e. your home. It pays to keep your roof in good shape. To do this, you need to know about common roof problems. While you can spot some of these from the ground, you will need to get on the roof to spot other problems.

1. Loose Shingles

Bad weather and high winds can loosen up tiles and metal flashing. These shingles need to be nailed down and resealed correctly.

2. Stagnant Water

If there is a problem in the roof that causes water to accumulate, then it can lead to seepage problems and water damage. You need to keep metal flashing and gutters in good condition to prevent such problems.

3. Holes

High winds and flying debris can create holes in the roof. Not only will these holes let in rain and snow, they are also an invitation for insects and small animals. They can also be a burden for your air condition and heating systems as they are constantly leaking heated/cooled air to the surroundings.

4. Bad Repairs

Instead of taking the shortcut by patching, you should get a thorough job done when needed. A small roof replacement may be required to replace an area of damaged or loose shingles. A full repair job will not only reinforce the damage shingles, it will also protect the adjoining shingles from possible damage.

5. Shrinkage

Materials contract when the temperature is reduced. The same holds true for your entire house, including the roof. Appropriate preparation is necessary for harmless shrinkage. If this is not done correctly, then the tiles and shingles can come loose when the roof contracts in freezing cold temperatures.

6. Expansion

Conversely, materials expand when heated. So when the temperature shoots in the summer months, your roof shingles also expand. If there is not enough roof for their expansion, then they can bend, twist and crack.

Take a close look at the shingles. There should be a thin gap between them to allow this expansion.

7. Granule Loss

Asphalt shingles contain granules that work by absorbing UV rays to protect your roof. If shingles start losing granules, then your roof may be exposed to UV ray damage. This problem may show itself as ‘bald patches’ on the roof.

8. Animals

If you have small critters running around your rooftop and they decide to call it their home, then they can dig holes and burrow in your roof. This can open up small holes and lead to more problems.

9. Trees

Big trees are one of the biggest threats to your roof. Be wary of all trees surrounding your roof. If they grow too big, a tempest can send them crashing down on your roof to demolish it. The repair work needed will be extensive.

Make sure you trim trees properly to avoid this issue. You do not need to cut down trees completely since they provide some shading against the sun.

10. Attic Ventilation

A badly ventilated attic could trap heat, which will damage the structure of your roof over time. It may also accumulate moisture and cause further damage through mold and mildew.

In short, many possible problems can entail massive repair work and even complete re-roofing. Instead of taking the risk, you should contact the top roofing professionals to protect your roof from damage, both seen and unseen. Contact us today.