Key Takeaways –
- External elements and internal deterioration all contribute to roofing damage.
- Frequent roof maintenance and inspection cause significant strife to your place.
- Five major damage types can ruin your roof.
- Professional roof maintenance mitigates losses resulting from damage.
- The Queen Team General Contracting is a popular choice for roof maintenance in Cumberland County.
No one ever thinks their roof will need repairs until there’s a big, leaky mess in their living room. By then, it’s simply too late, and you have to fork over a lot of money for roof repair. But what are some things that you can do to help keep your roof in good condition and avoid these costly repairs? Here are five things ruining your roofs and how to fix them!
Also, Read – A Roof’s Anatomy and How it Keeps Your Home Safe and Dry
How Rain, Snow, and Ice Ruins Your Home
Every year, Americans suffer water damage to their homes, and the costs associated with repairs can be astronomical. Here’s how water accumulation from rain, snow, and ice ruins your place!
Rain
Persistent rain and lightning can hurt your roof beyond repair. Even a tiny leak results in significant problems, so it’s essential to let a professional inspect your roof regularly. If you observe any signs of a water leak, repair them immediately.
Another way that rain can damage your home is by causing flooding in your basement or crawlspace. If you reside in areas with a high water table, it’s essential to ensure that your basement is adequately waterproofed. Consult a professional to waterproof the basement.
Snow and Ice
Another hazard that homeowners need to watch out for is potential snow and ice damage. A common way snow damages your home is when icicles form on roof gutters and then fall onto walkways or driveways below, causing severe damage (not to mention injuries). To prevent this from happening, clear any snow and ice off your gutters before it builds up.
Another way that snow and ice can damage your home is by causing the formation of “ice dams.” Ice dams form when snowmelt refreezes at your roof’s edge, forming a dam preventing water from draining correctly. This can lead to serious leaks and water damage inside your home. Keep areas around your roof (such as attic vents) clear of snow and ice to prevent ice dam formation. You should also consider installing heated cables along the roof’s edge.
Wind Damage
Wind damage to your roof can occur in many ways. The most typical type of wind damage is caused by flying debris, such as tree limbs or branches. When these objects strike your roof, they can cause holes or tears in the shingles or tiles. Wind-damaged shingles or tiles are more likely to leak, damaging your roof further.
Excessive wind pressure and airflow also cause tiles to lift. This can happen when strong gusts of wind get underneath the edges of the shingles or tiles and lift them. Once the shingles or tiles are lifted, they no longer protect your roof from the elements and allow precipitation to seep into your home, leadingt to extensive water damage.
Finally, high winds can also cause physical damage to your gutters and downspouts. Loose or insecure gutters and downspouts can wilt under pressure, leading to leaks and water damage.
Damage From the Sun
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can break down the asphalt granules that make up your roofing shingles. When this happens, your shingles become more susceptible to wear and tear and fail to protect your home effectively.
The sun can also cause your roof decking to warp and rot. This can lead to leaks and other serious problems. The best way to prevent this type of damage is to have your roof inspected by a professional regularly. Roofing professionals will identify areas showing wear and tear so you can address them before they become more significant problems.
How Lichen and Moss Damage Your Roof?
Lichen and moss both love moisture. They use it to help anchor themselves to your roof. Over time, as they grow and spread, they can lift your shingles, causing them to crack and break. This leaves your roof vulnerable to leaks and decreases your shingles’ lifespan. In extreme cases, lichen and moss can cause your gutters to detach from your roof!
But you have to worry about not just the physical damage these plants can cause. They can also shorten the lifespan of your roof by trapping moisture beneath your shingles. This trapped moisture leads to the growth of mold and mildew, which can ultimately lead to rot. And no one wants a rotted roof!
The Dangers of Overgrown Trees
When trees are left unchecked, they can grow into a real menace. Branches that hang over your roof can scrape against shingles, causing them to become damaged or even dislodged. In addition, falling branches can cause severe damage to your roof, and if a large enough branch falls, it could even punch a hole right through the roof itself! Not to mention, overhanging branches provide easy access for squirrels and other critters looking for a way into your attic.
Protect Your Roof from Damage by Scheduling Frequent Maintenance
A professional roofing service can inspect your roof for potential problems and ensure it’s in good condition. They can also perform necessary repairs to keep your roof in top shape. Roof maintenance is crucial because it can help prevent minor problems from becoming big.
Having your roof inspected after severe weather conditions is also a good idea. High winds, hail, and heavy rains can all cause damage to your roof. If you suspect your roof has been damaged, you should call a professional roofing service immediately. They’ll be able to assess the damage and make any necessary repairs.
Have you been neglecting your roof? It’s not too late to book a consultation with The Queen Team General Contracting and get back on track. Our team of experienced professionals can help you maintain your roof, so it lasts for years.
Don’t wait; book a consultation in Cumberland County today!