One of the most visibly noticeable problems that a roofing system can have is sagging. Over time, many factors can contribute to roof sagging and they should be taken very seriously. A small amount of sagging is not necessarily grounds for an emergency, but it does mean you should call your local roofing company to repair it immediately. When left unrepaired, sagging can cause significant damage to the roofing system, house structure, and interior damage.
Whether your roof is noticeably sagging, or you have a suspicion that it is, working with your local roofing company will help ensure your roof is cared for as needed. They will be able to identify the cause of the sagging and provide the proper service to repair it. To help you understand what to look for in a sagging roof, we have put together these four common causes and what to do if your roof is sagging.
1. Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most common issues that a roof can endure. The roof is constantly exposed to the elements, including rain, wind and snow, which can be incredibly damaging over time. A properly designed roof will make sure water finds its way off of the roof and into the drainage system as quickly as possible. However, if the roof is not properly designed, missing crucial elements, or debris has filled your gutters, water can pool on the edge of the roofing system and cause it to sag.
The longer water sits on your roof, the worse the damage will be. Once a small amount of water finds its way into your roofing system, it can result in mold and mildew growth. As this growth breaks down your roofing structure, it will cause sagging. This sagging gets worse with the more water that pools or finds its way to the lower layers of your roof. Contact your roofing company to perform a roof inspection and offer their best roofing repair options.
2. Weight
If you live in an area that sees snow in the colder months, or even if temperatures get below freezing throughout the night, weight can be an issue for your roof. Gutters that are full of debris can also add excessive weight to your roofing system, especially when it rains. Your roof should be designed to withstand the weather for your area. However, added weight can cause the roof to sag, collapse, or cause structural damage to your home.
For example, while snow is not so common here in Arizona, ice dams can form during the colder months and they can be damaging to poorly maintained roofs. Making sure your gutters are free of debris, not backing up, and water is properly draining can help prevent ice dams from forming. If you are concerned about weight and your roof, call your local roofer and discuss your options for repair.
3. Improper Installation or Maintenance
Not every roofer will construct a roof with the same materials, especially if the company is not licensed or skilled. To ensure your roof is installed by a professional, be sure to ask for a copy of their licenses and insurance before you hire them. Additionally, discussing what materials the roofer uses is essential for proper installation. This includes the fascia, underlayment, and flashing construction. When poor materials are used for the roof and installed by an unskilled roofer, it is possible that sagging will occur.
Proper maintenance is essential to keep a roof in working order. When not properly maintained, sagging can become an issue. Common roofing maintenance includes visual inspection, gutter and roof cleaning, and minor repairs such as tile or shingle replacement. If a roof is left untouched for several years, several issues can arise, including sagging. Taking care of your roof can help prevent significant damage and save you in the long run.
4. Age
Depending on the material of your roof, it can last anywhere from 20 to 60 plus years when professionally installed and properly maintained. However, the older the roof gets, it is easier for damage to happen. If your roof is getting older, you might notice it starting to sag and the cause could simply be its age. Work with your roofer and discuss if a full replacement is favored over a repair.
Work with a Professional
In the end, discussing your options with your local roofing company is the best way to deal with a sagging roof. The solution could be as simple as cleaning your gutters or as much as a full roof replacement. No matter what, you will want to talk to your trusted roofing company and not put off any necessary repairs. The longer you wait, the worse the damage could be and the higher the cost of repair or replacement.
Craven Construction is your East Valley roofing company! If you are in need of roofing repair, maintenance, or replacement, we have you covered. Our team is experienced with roofs of all sizes and materials. We are licensed and insured for added peace of mind when it comes to protecting your home with a quality roof. Call our office today to schedule your FREE estimate!
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About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.