Your roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll make on your home. So you’ll definitely want to keep it in tip-top shape and free of damage that could lead to costly repairs and replacements. But it can also feel next to impossible to keep it in perfect condition if you don’t know what the most common roofing problems are and how to solve them. To help get you started, here’s a shortlist of the 5 most common roofing issues to watch out for and what to do about them if they happen.
Roof Leaks
Rain, snow, ice, and debris can lead to moisture infiltrating underneath the surface of your roof. Once water gets into your home, it can wreak havoc on your wood beams and your ceiling. If not immediately addressed, it can further lead to rot and mold, which is both difficult and costly to fix. If you spot a leak or water spots forming on your ceiling, call a certified roofing expert right away. You can also avoid costly repairs by having a regular roof inspection each year.
Damaged Flashings
The flashings on your roof are designed to seal the areas where moisture can easily gain access like around your chimney, vent pipes, and HVAC systems. If the flashings become damaged by wind or debris, the seams can open up and let in water, bugs, and anything else that blows up on your roof. You can easily fix any loose flashings by applying roofing cement to the joint between the flashing and brick. But for seriously damaged flashings, you should call a professional.
Poor Ventilation
If your ventilation system is not up to par, heat and moisture can build up in your roof causing rot and mold damage to your rafters, insulation, and shingles. Poor ventilation can also push up your energy costs if not addressed. To improve your ventilation system, you need to install vents at the eaves or soffits, and also at the top of the roof so that the air will properly circulate.
Clogged Gutters
Gutters and the downspouts are designed to keep water away from your foundation. If they are clogged up with debris or ice, it will cause water to leak down the side of your home. The increased weight can also cause the gutters to pull away from your home causing structural damage. To prevent problems from occurring, ensure you have your gutters cleaned regularly while repairing any holes as soon as they occur and make sure the hardware is updated when needed.
Damaged Shingles
Shingles are prone to curling, blistering, and cracking under extreme weather conditions. If not fixed, the shingles can become broken or completely fly off, leaving the underlying wood susceptible to holes, rot and other damage. If you find any damaged shingles they will need to be replaced. And if you are deciding on a full replacement, don’t cut corners on shingles. Use only the best available products and most trusted roofing contractors to avoid spending more on unnecessary repairs down the road.
At Roofmaster, we can take care of regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs for you. Our certified experts can help you with any of these common roofing problems and help you solve them fast and efficiently at an affordable rate. Contact us today for more information on our services.
