Your roof is one of the most important features of your home, and not every homeowner thinks about the maintenance and cares it needs.
It’s natural to fix your roof when it takes a hit after storm damage or has a major leak. However, most homeowners neglect their roof if there are minor issues. They don’t realize that small damage can build over time and lead to disastrous results.
Below, learn about some of the most common roof concerns and why you should fix these issues right away.
Pro Tip: Know Your Limits
Whenever a situation feels like it is beyond your skillset or understanding, play it safe, and call a professional. When looking for roof repair services in your area, research the pricing and personnel of companies in your area.
When hiring someone, it’s always helpful to present as much information as you can to them about the situation, so they’re as prepared as possible. You want your roof repair expert to treat your roof quickly, so make it easy for them!
- Leaks
A roof leak may present itself in many ways. You may notice dark water spots forming on your ceiling or along your walls. Or you may notice pools of water forming on the floor. These are tell-tale signs of a leak.
It may be from your plumbing system, HVAC system, or your roof. Because the water travels, the area of origin may be far away from the interior spots you notice.
If you can’t find the source of the leak, get a professional to find it for you. Most leaks are easy to patch. The key is to find leaks before extensive damage has occurred.
- Tree Damage
If you live around trees, be aware of how they might impact your roof. Strong winds may knock surrounding trees over or tear off their branches. On their way down, they’ll likely take some of your roofs with them. Over time, they may erode sections of it as well.
To minimize damage from nearby trees, get their branches routinely trimmed. If a tree is in poor health and is likely to fall in a bad storm, consider getting it removed.
- Freeze Damage
For homes in colder climates with regular exposure to snow and ice, freezing water is a real threat. When freezing water expands, it may break elements of your roof, like flashing or shingles. The sudden melting of frozen water may also be troubling.
During the spring and fall, take the time to inspect your roof or have it inspected.
- Broken Shingles
Broken or missing roof shingles are common. A shingle will break or loosen when the sealant underneath weakens. The sealant may weaken as a result of aging, weather, poor installation, or animal interference.
Luckily, shingles are easy to replace, and you can usually do this DIY repair yourself.
- Shedding Granules
Granules protect your roof’s shingles from the sun and its UV rays. You may notice one day that they’ve come off and are now clogging your gutter. This is common with new roofs.
During installation, it is natural for some granules to come off. But if you notice this issue on an older roof, your shingles may need replacing.
- Pools of Water
Roofs are designed to get rid of excess water from rain. But if your gutters are clogged or your roof is misshapen, you may notice water starting to form pools. This can lead to mildew and mold that eats away at your roof and interior. If you experience this, clean your gutters and add something to help guide the water away.
