Roof damage is common, especially during heavy rain or snow storms. If you live in an area where these events occur often, then it’s important to be aware of some things that can cause damage to your home’s roof.
The average homeowner spends over $1,500 annually fixing their roofs. This means that they spend almost half of their annual income on repairs. In addition to the cost of repair, homeowners also face the risk of water damage from leaks.
Here are six things that can harm your roof and how to prevent them.
Wind
Did you know that strong winds can loosen the shingles on your roof deck? After heavy winds and storms, it’s important to check your roof and yard. If you find pieces of shingles on your property, it can mean there are exposed areas of your roof that can lead to leaks later on. Call a professional for an inspection if you suspect damage from heavy winds.
Debris
While it’s not uncommon for branch, leaf, and twig accumulation to occur on roofs and gutters, it’s important to know what can happen if too much debris accumulates there. Debris buildup can cause moisture to seep into the underbelly of your roof, leading to rotting wood and other materials.
In addition, too much debris build-up can cause ice dams to form during wintertime. Ice dams occur when snow accumulates on the outside of your roof and melts into the areas where your gutters drain off. When melted water runs down the side of your house, it collects and refreezes, creating icicles. These icicles eventually break away, falling onto your roof and damaging everything beneath it.
Finally, debris buildup can also cause moisture to seep into the underbelly of your roof and cause rotting problems. If left untreated, this can lead to mold growth and even structural damage. To avoid these potential hazards, make sure to keep your gutters clean. You can do this by regularly inspecting them for debris build-up and cleaning out any obstructions.
Faulty Gutters and Downspouts
If your gutters are clogged or damaged, rainwater can collect on the roof and saturate it. This can lead to mold growth, rotting wood, and even structural problems. To avoid these issues, make sure to check your gutters regularly and fix any leaks immediately.
Snow and Ice
As temperatures drop across North America, homeowners are being forced to deal with snow and ice on their roofs. In fact, many people don’t realize that snow and ice actually pose a threat to their homes. When snow builds up on the surface of a roof, it can weigh down the shingles and cause damage to the roof itself. If the snow continues to build up over time, it can eventually crack the tiles and leak water onto the interior of the house.
Another problem that snow can cause is ice accumulation. While snow melts, it leaves behind small pockets of liquid that freeze together, forming large sheets of ice. These icy patches can easily break away from the roof and fall directly onto the house. They can also melt and drip into the attic space, causing further problems.
Damaged Flashing
The main purpose of flashing is actually to keep the joints on your roof safe and protect the area from water penetration. This includes the fascia board, soffit, gutter, downspouts, and chimney flue. If your flashing becomes damaged in any way, water could leak into the roof and cause serious problems.
Therefore, if you notice any cracks or holes in your flashing, contact your local roofing contractor immediately. They can inspect your roof and determine whether or not it needs repair.
Pests
Roofs are often home to pests such as termites, ants, spiders, bees, wasps, and more. As a result, they can be extremely dangerous to your health and well-being. Termites eat through wood and destroy entire structures. Ants will bite humans and spread diseases. Spiders and other insects can carry deadly viruses. Bees and wasps sting and attack without warning. If you find you have an infestation, call a pest control professional and then a roofer to repair any damage.
Need a Roof Inspection?
When you partner with Tristate Roofing & Remodeling, we will walk you through the process of keeping your roof in its best shape. Contact us today to get started!
