10 Common Things That Can Damage Your Roof

10 Common Things That Can Damage Your Roof

Your roof protects your belongings and family against unruly weather, making it an essential part of your home. That said, minor damage can compromise its functionality. Therefore, addressing roofing issues immediately to prevent further harm to your building is crucial. Despite this, many overlook it until serious problems arise. It’s important to familiarize yourself with things that can damage your roof to help you prepare accordingly. Here are a few you should take note of. 

  1. Hail

It can be hard to diagnose hail-related damage to your roof; sometimes, hail may create large and conspicuous punctures or leave only small cracks that are difficult to spot. With asphalt roof shingles, little cracks will allow water to leak into the roofing system, knocking out the granules and damaging your roof with time. Hail can also destroy the coating on your shingles, giving rise to bare spots. Ignoring this can also leave your home prone to UV rays and moisture while shortening your roof’s lifespan. If you suspect hail damage, consider calling professional roofing contractors to inspect and correct it.

  1. Sunshine

Harsh sunshine can also compromise your roof, so keep this in mind. For instance, areas without shingles can suffer significant damage from scorching sun rays. It’s also worth noting that the sun can crack the shingles of older roofs. In this case, installing a new roof is highly advisable to ensure your home can withstand the sun’s powerful radiation.

  1. Animals

It’s common for animals like birds, rats, and bats can infest your roof. Woodpeckers, for example, usually poke into your shingles when hunting for insects. Likewise, raccoons can destroy your vent covers and shingles. On the other hand, bats can give you several reasons to worry if they make your attic their home; they can attack walls and destroy your wiring and insulation. Also, you won’t enjoy the foul smell and diseases these animals can bring to your living space. Fortunately, performing routine fumigation can eradicate these critters in your home. Inspect your roof and attic for signs of pest infestation or holes that allow birds to creep into your building.

  1. Damaged roof flashing

Roof flashing is a thin material used by contractors to weatherproof your vents, chimneys, and edges. Damaged roof flashing can allow water to flow underneath that area and ruin your roof. With time, weather can weaken the flashing seal, making it loose and increasing your risk of water damage. Investing in good flashing will allow you to guard against water penetration, so feel free to consider this.

  1. Trees

There are several hidden ways trees can threaten your home. For example, algae and moss from overganging branches can reach your roof sooner or later. While typical algae may not cause immediate danger to your roof, it can tarnish your home’s aesthetic appeal if left to thrive. Moss can pose hazards to your roof by creating wet patches that speed up deterioration. Therefore, consider pruning or cutting overhanging tree branches to make your roof much safer. Working with professionals is recommended if the branches are too close to your roof. This way, you can prevent damage and extra costs, so keep this in mind. 

  1. Strong winds

The wind is a common threat to your roof; it can lift roof shingles or edges, exposing your home to debris and harsh weather elements. You should note that wind damage risks are higher in severe storms. Unfortunately, missing shingles can prevent your roof from effectively protecting your property from rain. It’s a good idea to call a professional roof contractor to come and inspect your roof for possible damage and repair it.

  1. Snow and ice

Homeowners in cold climates are often concerned about snow and ice roof damage and for good reasons. Normally, snow can melt off your roof without any cause for alarm. However,  roof cracks can allow moisture in, causing structural damage. Therefore, ensure you fix your roof before winter to avoid this. It’s also worth noting that winter ice dams may appear on the edges of your roof and can spill over into your gutters. This ice buildup can pressure your shingles and even displace the sealant. Fortunately, good roof ventilation and attic insulation can prevent ice dam formation, so feel free to consider this.

  1. Shoddy repair jobs

Indeed, shoddy repair jobs can affect your roof negatively. Therefore, always work with roofing contractors if you lack the skills to fix your roof. However, several unqualified roofing contractors are out there, so look for experienced, licensed, and qualified professionals to work on your roof. Unqualified roofing contractors may cut corners or pay less attention to details when roofing your home. On the other hand, proven professionals can repair your roof and make new installations according to quality standards.

  1. Debris on downspouts/gutters

Poorly maintained or clogged gutters can hinder water flow from your roof. Over time, accumulated water can dampen and cause leakage issues and rotting. Therefore, ensure you clean your gutters regularly to prevent leaves and twigs from increasing significantly. Routinely inspecting and fixing gutter damages can also promote its functionality and longevity, so feel free to consider this. 

  1. Poor roof design and quality

Faulty roof designs can make your home vulnerable to damage. Examples of bad roof designs to watch out for are shallow valleys that intersect or upper roofs that direct water to lower roofs. Moreover, poor roof design and substandard materials can dent your curb appeal and decrease your home’s value, so keep this in mind. Therefore, consult professional architects to ensure your roof design won’t challenge you. Before investing in roofing materials, research various brands to get the best value for your money. Fortunately, sites like clearambershop.com have different kinds of roofing products ranging from polycarbonate sheets, multiwall, glazing bar systems, and corrugated roof shingles to meet your needs. 

Indeed, various factors can cause your roof to deteriorate quickly, making it essential to identify and address them. Hopefully, you’ll consider the tips discussed above to achieve the desired outcome.