Roofing Damage: Factors You Should Be Aware Of

Neglecting the health of your roof can lead to significant damages and financial burdens. Understanding the factors that contribute to roofing damage can not only help extend the lifespan of your roof but also maintain the overall structural integrity of your home. Here are some common causes of damage and what to look out for.

Stormy Weather

Hail, strong winds, and storms pose a serious threat to a roof's structural integrity and are among the most common causes of roof damage. Hail can harm roofs made of any material since it varies in size, shape, and speed.

Falling debris and objects also threaten the components and the framework of a roof when high winds are present. Even though most roofing components are made to withstand winds up to a particular speed, the passage of time and the elements can wear down the roof to the point where it is no longer windproof.

Repairing storm damage as soon as possible is also essential. Any damage to the roof, such as missing shingles or broken tiles, might set off a domino effect that could eventually cause leaks and water damage within the building. To avoid more significant and costly repairs down the line, it is crucial to make the necessary replacements and repairs as soon as possible.

Improper Installation

When installing or replacing a roof, many individuals may not see the need to hire a professional roofing contractor. Yet, a roof's lifetime and strength depend much on the caliber of its installation.

Insecurely fastened shingles are a telltale symptom of sloppy roofing installation. The roof may suffer water leaks and other forms of damage if shingles become loose or fall off due to this. Using recycled or previously used components is another warning sign of a shoddy installation. This can cause the roof to deteriorate faster than expected.

Drip edges should be used in every roof installation to prevent water from pooling along the roof's perimeter. The absence of these components might lead to decay and other problems in the roof.

Trees

Storms and the presence of trees and vegetation around a house can lead to the accumulation of branches and other roof debris. Extreme weather, such as ice, wind, or snow, can cause limbs from neighboring trees to split and drop onto a roof. This is especially risky if the tree is already sick or neglected.

Besides tree branches, other things that fall off of roofs can also damage them. Debris from the nearby environment can accumulate on a roof, especially in the soffits and vents of any additions or dormers. Sticks, foliage, and pine needles can accumulate to form a mulch pile on the roof. Wetness from this mess can accelerate the deterioration of the underside of the tiles and perhaps cause structural damage.

Pests

Pests are a constant annoyance for most homeowners. Unfortunately, these pests may additionally cause significant damage to their roofs. Damage to your roof from pests, whether they be insects, rats, birds, or larger animals, can lead to expensive maintenance bills if not addressed promptly.

Birds, especially if they build a nest on your roof, are a common pest that can cause expensive repairs. These pests have a penchant for tunneling under multilayer roof systems, which can lead to leaks. Even worse, they can use your wood shingles to construct nests, weakening your roof. Furthermore, birds can rip off soffits and other building components to make place for their broods.

Pests like woodpeckers and raccoons can also cause problems. Woodpeckers are attracted to your home by the insects found under the shingles and fascia boards. Raccoons may be destructive, ripping off roofs and vent covers as they try to find their way inside.

Poor Maintenance

Many homeowners do not realize how important it is to check and maintain their roofs regularly, as neglecting this duty can cause costly and extensive damage over time. Though seemingly minor at first glance, roof problems like leaks and cracks can cause serious structural damage if unresolved.

Contact us at Gerardo's Construction LLC for roofing services in the Greater Jackson Area.