Roofs are integral for shelter against the harsh elements of the outdoors. Being the highest point of the home, it serves as the primary defense against potential structural damage. As a firm foundation keeps a home securely anchored to the ground and sturdy walls keep the household safe inside, the roof must be resilient to protect the entire house. The construction materials and the roof design play a vital role in making the structure resilient to anything that may damage them. The quality of roof work affects overall functionality, and only professional roofing contractors should handle the proper installation. Poorly built roofs jeopardize the resilience of a home and are safety hazards.
However, well-built roofs are not entirely indestructible. They suffer deterioration from natural and human-made causes. A damaged roof can cause significant inconveniences to any home and is costly to repair. Numerous factors contribute to ruining and below are the main causes of roof damage.
1. Improper Roofing Installation
Many roof repairs are rooted in improper roofing installation. Some homeowners opt for cheap and fast services, which yield equally cheap results and quick deterioration. From the exterior to the interior, each part of the roof must be completed and installed correctly to make it resilient. Faulty roof installation involves the following:
- Not using underlayment for waterproofing
- Failing to install flashing for proper runoff
- Using poor-quality sealants or not using sealants at all
- Failing to fasten shingles correctly
- Uneven placement of shingles across the roof and shingle overhang
- Building over old roofing
These malpractices not only subject the roof to susceptible damage but also compromises the safety of the home. Proper roofing installation leverages home security and adds to property value.
2. Poor Maintenance
Some homeowners only inspect their roofs when damages are already visible. Homeowners still need the aid of professional roofing contractors for a thorough sweep of every part of the roof. Without regular inspections, there might be underlying issues that can cause more damage over time. Likewise, neglecting minor signs of deterioration or putting off repairs contributes to severe roofing problems in the future. Immediate repairs prevent small damages from turning to bigger ones.
3. Weather
A roof encounters numerous weather elements throughout the year, including heat, wind, rain, hail, and snow. Prolonged exposure or forceful contact with these elements brings a plethora of issues to roofs. UV light and high heat, especially during summer, can cause roofing materials to warp, bleach, decay, or crumble. Thunderstorms, hurricanes, and hailstorms can loosen shingles and expose roofing materials. In extreme cases, strong winds can rip off an entire roof structure.
Pressure from the heavy accumulation of snow in cold climate regions risks the roof to collapse. Ice formation blocks the gutters and downspouts, while water leaks from melting ice dams can run underneath the roofing system.
4. Pest invasion
Some members of the wildlife community often wander in roofs. They seek shelter from predators and weather, especially during winter and spring. Gnawing mammals like rodents and raccoons can chew through roofing materials and use debris for their den. Birds tend to build nests on gutters, which can block drainage, and their droppings are acidic to corrode shingles. Insects bore through roofing materials and make their homes inside the roof’s hollow spaces. Honeycombs stain shingles and erode them to the point where they require replacement.
Pests must immediately be removed as they not only damage the structure, but they also are a threat to the safety of the home. For severe infestations, homeowners must call animal control. Afterward, they should have the damages fixed by professional roofing contractors.
5. Aging and Worn-Down Materials
Roofs are susceptible to wear and tear as they go through a lot in their lifetime. Exposure to pollutants in the air and chemicals wear down shingles over a certain period. While sturdy materials can last for decades, they eventually weaken and become brittle with aging. If the roof is already past its warranty, replacement is better than frequent, costly repairs.
Investment in a proper roof installation is significant in keeping roof damages minimal. Reinforcing roofs to be sturdier increases their capacity to withstand conditions that can cause structural damage. Likewise, cracks, gaps, and holes must be sealed to prevent weather elements or pests from entering spaces where severe damage can originate.
The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends regular inspection during spring and fall, and full assessment must be done after experiencing extreme weather conditions. Early detection of roofing problems prevents major inconveniences and saves time and money.
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Fahey Roofing + Contracting has a reputation for outstanding service and integrity since 2008. Their roofing and contracting expertise assure homeowners of excellent work, and their dedication to customer service guarantees satisfaction. Contact Fahey Roofing + Contracting today at (304) 202-6247 (West Virginia), (740) 523-0380 (Ohio), or visit their website and request a quote.
