A roof is an essential part of any house, considering that it adds to the aesthetics and value of the house. However, since the roof is exposed to harsh weather conditions, it is bound to get damaged after some time. These minor damages, if not attended to, could lead to more problems, such as leaks that expose the property. This article highlights four roofing problems that a significant number of homeowners face.
Damaged Shingles
Harsh weather, such as heavy storms and blazing sun, could damage shingles. Similarly, properties close to trees might be damaged by the debris of overhanging twigs and rotten leaves. Homeowners should pay for a roofing emergency service immediately if they notice that their shingles are cracked, curled, or missing.
Failure to repair or replace them exposes the home to water damage. It is important to hire an experienced contractor for the job because they install high-quality materials and assess the entire roof to determine its health. The contractor will determine the cause of the damage, replace the shingles, and advise the owners and occupants on how to prevent further damage.
Roof Leaks
Roof leaks are caused by torn or broken shingles. The problem is also caused by clogged gutters blocking the smooth water flow from the roof. Water that leaks through the roof spatter into the ceiling and walls. This creates water stains near the gutters and chimneys and around the flashings.
Furthermore, the leaking water weakens the basement and compromises the stability of the structure. The leaks could also cause cracks in the floors or the walls. Homeowners must be observant and consult an expert immediately to prevent the cracks from compromising the stability of the house. It is important to watch out for musty odors in the house because it is a common sign of mold growth due to a leaking roof.
Sagging Roof
Common signs of a sagging roof include creaking sounds and cracks in the ceiling or walls. In most cases, a roof sags when water damage compromises the decking. Damaged beams or trusses can also cause this issue by failing to support the roof as required.
Other factors, such as poor roof installation, excessive weight from rainwater water, or accumulated snow and debris, can also cause a roof to sag. The best way to avoid this issue is to hire an experienced roofer to clean the roof after storms and snowy seasons.
Clogged Gutters
Ice, debris, and tree leaves can block gutters, preventing water from flowing from the roof. Clogged gutters can cause ice dams during winter, making the underlayment rot. They can also damage the roof structure if left unaddressed.
Unfortunately, homeowners rarely inspect or unclog their gutters when they accumulate debris. They usually act when water starts leaking, or mildew starts growing on the debris in the gutters.
Rainwater can also get backlogged into the roofing system, seep into the ceiling and walls, and cause structural damage. Moreover, water overflowing from the gutters can damage a home’s foundation, leading to severe safety issues.
A healthy roof ensures a home is more attractive and valuable while saving property owners from costly repairs and safety concerns. For this reason, homeowners should embrace preventative maintenance practices, such as hiring an expert technician to conduct regular inspections and cleaning.
