Six Common Roofing Problems
A properly functioning roof is something most of us don’t give thought to until issues arise. Without a roof in good condition, water can leak into a home and pests can invade your attic. Many homeowners can conduct simple roof repairs. However, most roofing issues should be left to trusted industry professionals. Here are the most common roofing issues a homeowner can encounter.
Hail Damage: Hail can cause the granules on a roof to loosen. When this happens, the roof is no longer protected from the sun and precipitation. Before too long, roof leaks can ensue. An indicator that your roof might have been damaged by hail is if you notice lots of granules in your gutters. Hail can also place dents in roof vents and flashing. If you even question if you have hail, it’s wise to consult a reputable roofing contractor to see if they advise filing an insurance claim.
Roof Leaks: There are a variety of reasons a roof could leak. Left unaddressed, roof leaks can lead to mold, rotting wood, and wet attic insulation. Common places where leaks can be found are around chimneys, skylights, or vents. Common causes of roof leaks are ice dams, damaged shingles, and cracked shingles. When a roof leak occurs, a reputable contractor should be called to ensure the origin is properly identified and that all damage is fully repaired.
Clogged Gutters: Believe it or not, your gutters, play an integral part in the lifespan of your roof. Gutters that are clogged can cause long-term damage. That’s because water will remain on the roof instead of exiting through the downspouts. Over time, the weight of the water will become too great, and it will eventually drip through a home’s ceiling as cracks form on the roof.
Animal Infestation: Raccoons, squirrels, and mice all can climb on a home’s roof. They can chew shingles before making their way into a home’s attic through the soffits. Once these animals enter their attic, it isn’t long before the insulation and your home’s air quality become compromised.
Tree Damage: Tree branches that are touching a home’s roof can create a scenario where they are rubbing up against a home’s shingles. This is a problem because they can scrape away the layers of the shingles, rendering them useless. Tree branches that fall on a roof can also cause major damage.
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Ice Dams: An ice dam is a sheet of ice that forms on a roof’s edge. They are problematic because they prevent ice and snow from exiting the roof. Ice dams are the result of poor insulation and ventilation. Ice dams can cause water damage to insulation, walls, ceilings, and floors. In addition, interior mold can form because of ice dams.
