Roof Repairs: Keeping your Home Safe
Your roof is your home’s first line of protection against the elements. The roof is constantly subjected to extreme weather which can lead to leaks, damage and possibly structural issues. When it comes to roof repairs, timeliness is very important! Finding and repairing an issue quickly can keep a small issue from becoming a huge problem. This article will provide useful roof repair tips to help homeowners protect their investment and provide a safe and dry place to live.
Common Roof Dangers
If you know what causes roof damage, you can be more proactive in preventing problems from becoming worse. Common causes of roof damage include:
- Weather: Shingles can be damaged from constant high winds, hail, and heavy rain. All of which contribute to roof vulnerabilities. UV exposure for extended periods of time can deteriorate roofing materials.
- Materials: The ageing process of roof materials can lead to roof issues. As shingles age, they become brittle, crack, broken tabs, or lose granules and flashing will rust and corrode. Sealants will also degrade and dry out throughout time.
- Poor Installations: Poorly installed roofing will lead to leaks and losses in performance, which leads to truncated roof lifespans.
- Neglect: Lack of routine maintenance, including roof inspections, can lead to small issues worsening. Clogged gutters, green molds, or minor shingle damage are often neglected until it is too late!
- Accumulation of Debris: As the leaves and debris build up, they can retain moisture, which will rot the roof and accumulate water, promoting mould growth and water damage.
- Animal Activity: Animals seeking food, especially right before winter can cause damage. Squirrels and other animals will chew roofing materials or even shingles away. Birds will search for food in left over roof spaces, and dislodge whole tab areas of your shingles.
Indications You’re in Need of Roof Repairs
By routinely inspecting your roof, you can identify potential issues before they become serious problems. Look for the following signs:
- Missing or Broken Shingles: Curled, cracked, buckled, or missing shingles represent wear or storm damage and can prevent your roof from properly shedding water.
- Granule Loss: If you notice granules from your shingles in the gutters, it is a sign that the shingles are deteriorating and the protective top coating has been lost.
- Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls: Definitely a sign there is a leak in the roof.
- Sagging Roof Deck: Indicates there is a really serious issue with roofing structure that will require immediate attention (usually from a professional).
- Gutters that Have Been Obstructed or Damaged: Clogged gutters can cause water to backup and get underneath the roof.
DIY vs Professional Roofing Repairs
Some minor roof repairs, such as cleaning gutters, could safely be done by homeowners, but most repairs should be done by qualified professionals. Working on a roof can be dangerous, and if something goes wrong, there is scope for further damage, voiding warranties, or compromising structure integrity.
A professional roofing contractor should have the necessary training, experience, and safety equipment to perform repairs efficiently and effectively. They should also be able to identify problems, suggest solutions, and demonstrate the repairs were made to the appropriate standard. Whenever in doubt about repair, you should reach out to a licensed reputable roofing company for your own safety and for the safety of your home.
Roof repair tips:
- If you’ve got a problem with your roof, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Take Action As Soon As Possible: Don’t let roof problems linger. Small leaks turn into large leaks and the damage grows over time. Fixing a roof problem sooner costs less and can mitigate the extent of damage.
- Document The Damage: Always take clear pictures or video before you begin repairs so you can show the damage to the insurance company and communicate with contractors.
- The Importance Of Regular Maintenance: A proper schedule of maintenance includes a regular roof inspection and gutter cleaning at least once a year, and the immediate repair of anything, even small defects that appear on the roof to prevent larger problems from appearing in the future.
Your roof is an important protective barrier for your home and property. If you and your family are aware of the most common causes of roofing damage, how to spot the signs of damage, and when and where you should take action you will be able to protect your home from damage, leaks, and deterioration. Minor roofing repairs might be appealing to DIY for a few reasons, but repairing or replacing a large portion of your roof should always be handled by an experienced professional.
A certified roofing contractor can repair or replace your roof safely, correctly, and effectively; and allow you to sleep well at night knowing your roof will outlast the manufacturer warranty.
For more information on how to repair a roof, or to discuss getting a professional roof repair/maintenance assessment process, just reach out to us today. Visit Hart Roofing’s service for expert roofing solutions. You can even book your roofing consultation online. Our goal is to help you have and maintain a strong roof over your head.
