What Are The Most Common Causes Of Roof Damage?
To solve any problem, you must first identify the source of the it and why it is happening. This is a general rule that is applicable to anything that you can think of, like roof repairs and replacements. When dealing with roof related issues, it not only helps to solve the problems, but it also often helps to avoid them altogether. Roof damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including leaking or improper installations. To avoid major roofing costs and keep you and your loved ones safe, you must understand how roof damage can occur. So, to help you gain more knowledge about your roof, here are the most common causes of roof damage.
Weather
The first cause can happen unexpectedly, and its severity varies all the time. Although it is impossible to avoid or control, it is still important to be aware of and keep an eye on. One of the leading causes of roof damage is weather, specifically wind and rain storms. Powerful storms can rip a portion or the entire roof off. Furthermore, harsh weather conditions can result in missing shingles, holes in your roof that can make your home uncomfortable to live in, and broken roof parts such as gutters. If you experience any storms in your area, it is best to get your roof checked out immediately, even if it appears to be in good condition, because it is always better to be safe than sorry.
Water Damage
In addition to wind, rain and snow are the most common causes of roof damage. As previously stated, leaks are the most common problem that homeowners face, and they are usually caused by heavy snow or rain that seeps through their roof. You can protect your roof from the damaging effects of rain and snow by adding extra protective layers or acting quickly if you notice leaking on your ceiling. If you fix it as soon as possible, you will save yourself a lot of trouble in the future. Moreover, if you find yourself constantly repairing your roof as a result of these problems, it may be time to upgrade to a new one and purchase metal roofing.
Gutters
Speaking of water, gutters can cause issues with your roof, as well. If they are not properly installed, or if they are broken by the wind or harsh weather conditions, the water will not be directed away. This will lead to you dealing with a lot of water on your roof and that is not good for any kind of roof. Sitting water on top of your roof can cause severe damage and water leakage that will not only destroy your living area, but will also cost you quite a lot to fix. With that being said, you must always keep an eye on your gutters to make sure that they are doing their job.
Trees
When there is strong wind in the area and an old tree or any tree for that matter is right beside your house, your roof and home is in danger of dealing with a great amount of damage. Trees and branches can cause significant damages, from damaged shingles to an entirely destroyed roof. If your house is near a tree, you must keep an eye on it. It is best that you keep a record of all the old trees near your house as a precautionary measure to avoid unpleasant surprises. This will allow you to give evidence to insurance companies when you plead that your roof damages were a result of natural causes.
No Maintenance
Roofs are undoubtedly one of the most overlooked aspects of the house. We only pay attention to it when there is a problem and end up spending a lot of money on it. Roof damage is also caused by a lack of maintenance and periodic inspection, since undetected damages can get worse over time. So, the sooner you detect an issue, the less difficulties you will have. That is why it is important to always be aware of the condition of your roof. Routine check up and inspection would avoid your home from getting damaged and will save you a lot of money in the long-term.
Birds and Little Rodents
It is common for homeowners to underestimate the impact of these small creatures that roam around. They can pull away shingles and vent covers, which weakens the roof, in their hunt for food and other resources that keep them alive.. It is best that you keep an eye out for not just birds, but also cats, mice, rats, racoons, and other animals because all of them can cause damage to your roofing. If you notice that there are permanent animals living in your home, it is recommended that you get rid of them right away before they can damage your home.
Keeping your roof in the best condition will expand its life expectancy and save you a lot of money and time. A part of maintaining your roof and taking care of it is knowing how the problems related to it are caused. Some of the common causes of roof problems that most homeowners face are weather, water damage, poorly installed or defected gutters, trees, poor maintenance and birds or little rodents. If you notice any of these signs, it is best that you call a roofing contractor in order to have them dealt with.
