A roof is the most important part of your home, but it’s also one of the least visible. It’s easy to take it for granted until something goes wrong. If you don’t know what to look for when checking if your roof needs repairs, then here are a few of the most common causes of roof damage that you should be aware of that can leave you with costly repairs.
Animal Damage
Rodents like squirrels can chew through shingles and even your roof deck. If you think that this could be happening at your house, there are several ways that homeowners can fix this problem. Ensure that they can’t reach your roof by trimming any tree limbs that grant them access. If they make it into your home, you will need to hire someone who specializes in removing these pests from your home.
Wind Damage
Many people know that wind damage is the most common cause of roof damage. High winds can blow shingles off, damage them, and in catastrophic events, even blow your roof off. A damaged roof can cause leaks and water damage inside your home. The best way to prevent wind damage is to have a sturdy roof that can withstand high winds. Look into alternate materials, such as metal roofing, if you need to a hurricane-proof your home.
Ice Buildup
Ice can be a major cause of roof damage. Ice and snow that stays on top of the home for extended periods can eventually cause leaks in your home’s ceiling or walls. If you notice water stains on ceilings or inside walls or an accumulation of ice along any area of your roof, you may want to have it inspected just to be sure.
Improperly Installed Shingles
It’s important that shingles are installed correctly and evenly. Water can get into the roof deck and cause rot if they aren’t. Improper installation is also a common cause of failure due to improper placement or shingle size. In addition, improper ventilation can lead to moisture buildup inside of the home, which can make your roof more susceptible to mold growth and eventual damage. It is essential that you hire a professional roofing contractor for all of your roofing needs.
Aging Shingles
The most common cause of damage is your roof’s shingles. Shingles are the layers covering most roofs and can be made from various materials such as asphalt, metal, or clay tiles. They’re laid out in an overlapping fashion, making it so water can’t get through.
As shingles age, they’re subjected to elements like wind, sun, rain, and hail, which cause them to break down or crack open if they’re already damaged by previous impacts like falling tree branches or ice accumulation.
Protect Your Home
Protect your home against roof damage, so you don’t have to deal with costly repairs. When it comes to roof damage, you want to be sure that the repairs are done right. If you let it go too long, it can lead to more expensive repairs down the road, like leaks from water damage.