If you are a homeowner yourself, you probably have encountered some problems with your roofing in one way or another. This could include minor leaks, cracking, decaying, and other issues that require urgent action. We have listed the most common roofing problems that homeowners encounter and tips on dealing with them.
It is important to remember that roof repair is not an easy task, and it can also pose a lot of risks if handled by an amateur. Just a word of caution, most roofing problems are best handled by a professional roofing company like Service First Roofing and Construction – Oklahoma. This way, you can not only rest assured that your home is safe, but you will also be confident that the job will be done correctly and successfully.
Roof Leaks
The most common roofing problem that most homeowners face is a leaking roof. This issue can range from cracked flashing to broken or bent shingles, tiles, slate, and many others.
Roof leaks can usually be found near the chimney, under bent or broken shingles, around your gutters, near the vents and pipes, at the flashing points, and in low spots. Once you notice a leak or signs of leaks such as discoloration on ceilings and walls, consider it a signal to call your trusted roofing company. Have it checked by specialists before it becomes worse.
Pooled Water
Water forming littles pools or pons on the roof can lead to more severe damages in the future. Form tapered areas over the surface of your flat roof to allow water to run off. This trick helps keep your roof free from damages that pooled water may cause.
Punctures and Holes
Scrapes, puncture marks, and roof holes are caused by foot traffic, whether from local wildlife or roofing contractors walking over shingles. Little by little, the damages can buildup and turn into one big serious roofing. Eventually, the punctures and holes will endanger the underlying wood and expose it to several risks like moisture and decaying.
Shrinkage
Shrinking of roofing materials can lead to many other problems in the long run, including cracking, pulling apart of other vital parts, and deterioration. EPDM roofs are the types of roofs that are most prone to this particular issue.
Solving this problem requires the help of a licensed professional, one who has enough experience to diagnose the said issue. You may need to have your roofing inspected for other signs of shrink-related problems.
Cracking and Blistering
Roofing systems develop all kinds of age-induced damage over time, including cracks, blisters, and ridges. Different types of roofs are prone to various damages. Some roofs that comprise of several layers are prone to cracking and blistering.
Snow and Ice Damage
Ice, when it melts into the water, it seeps through the different layers of the roof and causes damages underneath. When the meltdown freezes again, it causes the roof to push up against the flashing or shingles and lift them. This creates a gap through them, giving more space for more water and ice to get in.
To keep your roof from getting damaged by winter conditions, make sure to have established roofing inspections during the spring and fall. This will help determine early signs of damages so you will not get caught off guard when an emergency occurs.
Poor Installation
Every homeowner should take into mind the consequences of not hiring proper professionals. Choosing to work with unlicensed and inexperienced roofers will not save you money but can do more harm than good. Lack of skills can result in poorly installed roofing systems susceptible to long-term complications and shorter life expectancy. Poorly installed roofs are prone to molds and other poor installation-related damages.
Clogged Gutters
Gutters can also be prone to clogging and breaking, especially in the absence of proper maintenance. This can result in water backing up into the system and seeping into the eaves, creating a breeding ground for molds and rotting. To prevent such damages, do not neglect regular maintenance and inspection of your gutters. Make sure that twigs and leaves cannot get into your system at all to avoid clogging.
Poor Maintenance
Most roofing problems are rooted in either proof installation or poor maintenance. Aside from immediately giving attention to signs of potential troubles, experts cannot stress enough the importance of sticking to a regular maintenance routine.