A well working roofing system is essential for a house. It works to protect you, your family, and belongings from the elements along with providing a comfortable living area. Unfortunately, the roof is also the most susceptible part of the house to damage and will need to be reparied. Knowing the most common issues you could encounter as a homeowner can help you understand when you have a real problem on your hands.
While many homeowners are handy and think they can complete small repairs, it is important to proceed with caution when it comes to your roof. Roofing damage can create a dangerous situation! Being a responsible homeowner and knowing what damage your roof has sustained along with knowing when to call a professional.
9 Roofing Issues You May Enounter
1. Leaking Roof
Likely the most common issue you could encounter with your roof is a leak. A leak can develop within a roofing system for a number of reasons and cause significant damage when it is left untouched. Signs your roof has a leak include missing or cracked shingles or tiles, damaged flashing, water spots on the ceiling, or simply water dripping inside your home. If you see any of these signs of a leaking roof, you will want to call a professional roofer immediately. They will be able to safely inspect the roof and offer you quality repair.
2. Pooling Water
Water will pool on a roof when the roof starts to sink in certain areas, but is most common on flat roofs. When water does not drain properly, and is left standing, it can lead to significant issues. Consistent moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and algae growth which further leads to rot. The longer water is left on a roof, the more it will seep into the support system and cause structural damage to the entire home. While water pooling once after a major storm might go away, if it is a consistent issue, call your local roofer.
3. Poor Installation
The largest issues can develop from improper or poor roofing installation. Many homeowners will choose the cheapest roofing contractor they can find because they are on a tight budget. Down the road, significant problems can develop from corners being cut and unskilled workers installing the roof. When you are preparing to install a new roof, it is worth it to spend a little extra now to save on premature roofing failure down the road.
4. Tree Damage
Of course, when a large tree limb crashes on your roof, it can cause damage. If a tree is continuously rubbing against your roof, it can also cause damage. Over time, tree branches can wear down your roofing material causing water intrusion. You can easily help prevent tree damage by having your trees regularly trimmed.
5. Clogged Gutters
Many homeowners do not consider clogged gutters an issue for their roof, but they are sadly mistaken. Clogged gutters will cause water to be backlogged into the roofing system. The more clogged the gutters, the more it can seep into the roof and your home, causing structural damage. Cleaning your gutters regularly or after a large storm is essential to help prevent clogging.
6. Damaged or Missing Tile / Shingles
Your roofing material can become damaged for a number of reasons, including hail, heavy storms or wind, debris, sun exposure, and many more. When the material is damaged or completely missing, it leaves the underlayment exposed and likely to be damaged. The longer you allow the tile or shingles to go missing, the more likely further issues will develop. Contact your roofer to repair or replace the materials immediately in order to prevent further damage.
7. Damaged or Missing Flashing
Flashing offers an essential piece to divert away from the roofing system. When the flashing becomes damaged or goes missing, it can easily allow water to find its way to the most vulnerable parts of the roof. If you notice an area of flashing that has gone missing or is severly cracked, contact your trusted roofing company. The more you leave the flashing unrepaired, more damage can develop.
8. Ventilation Issues
Many homeowners do not realize how important attic ventilation is to a roof. When the ventilation is not functioning properly, it can raise the internal temperature of your home and allow moisture to accumulate. Over time, this can cause your roof to deteriorate from the inside out. Furthermore, it will increase energy costs. Having your roof regularly inspected can help discover issues with the ventilation and prevent significant damage.
9. Pest Intrusion
When the weather changes, creatures and critters of every kind will take shelter wherever they can find it, including under your roof. Not only can this provide a massive headache to homeowners, but they can cause significant damage. Whether their nests are built in a troublesome area, they eat away at the materials, or they keep coming back every time you kick them out, pests create a massive issue. If you discover any living rent free under your roof, call your local pest control agency. They will be able to safely remove the animal from your home and provide you with the best solution to prevent future disruption.
Think Twice Before DIY Repair
If you believe your roof has formed an issue and you cannot safely discover it yourself, contact your local roofing company. They will be able to assess the situation and offer you the best solution for repair. Don’t forget, it is best to have a professional complete repairs and save yourself the trouble of trying to DIY it.
Craven Construction is your East Valley roofing expert! We are available to inspect your roof to help discover any and all issues. Our team is highly experienced with all ranges of roofing damage and will get the job repaired right the first time. Call our office to schedule your FREE estimate and trust your roof is in great hands!
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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.