In this series, we’ve covered how roof rot and roof fungus can affect not only your roof but your health as well. In this article, we will go over some other common roof problems and pests and some ways to remedy them.
What are some common roof problems?
Leaks
Every homeowner knows that the number one problem they might encounter with their roof is leaks. There are a number of reasons why your roof might be leaking. Most leaks occur near the chimney, or under damaged shingles, near flashing points, at skylights, and near gutters. Watermarks on the ceiling can indicate a leak somewhere on your roof. We also recommend a biannual professional inspection to make sure the roof is being well taken care of.
Blistering
Another common roof problem that can occur is blistering and cracking. Older roofs especially tend to develop ridges, blisters, and cracks. These problems don’t affect every type of roof, and a low pitch to your roof increases the chances of this roof problem. Multiple layers of shingles can also contribute to blistering and cracking.
Gutters
Clogged gutters will often go unattended and are easy to overlook. A vital element of your roofing system, your gutters provide a primary line of defense against water damage. An improperly maintained gutter system allows water to back up into the roof, and this can lead to water seeping into the eaves. If not checked, this damage can lead to roof rot. Give your gutters a routine cleaning and checkup to prevent this roof problem. You can also install screens atop your gutters to keep twigs and leaves from backing up your gutters.
What are some common roof pests?
Birds
Bird rank as the number one roofing nuisance a homeowner can experience. The noise they make can be annoying. When they settle in — roosting and nesting on your roof or under the eaves, your real roof problems start. Notoriously difficult to dislodge, birds create problems on the roof and off. Bird nests and droppings constitute health hazards to you and your family. Keep in mind that birds tend to gravitate towards warmer areas, making your roof look like a vacation destination. They especially favor roofs with solar panels. This roof pest requires professional help to remove. We offer the installation of bird deterrents to keep birds off the roof.
Raccoons
Homeowners underestimate these furry little mammals when it comes to roofs. Your roof offers raccoons a great vantage point. From here, these roof pests can easily spot food sources, and they can even create hide-holes where they live and store their food. Like birds, once raccoons move in, they are hard tenants to remove. Raccoons typically gain access to your roof by crossing overhanging branches. Don’t try to remove these critters yourself. They are wild animals and also carry diseases. Call a professional to help with these roof pests.
Rats & Mice
You might not think that rats and mice can cause problems on your roof, but you would be mistaken. While they typically reside in trash, sewers, and drains, they can also make quite a comfortable place in your attic and roof cavity. Hey are similar to birds in the respect that they are attracted to warm places, so your attic and roof cavity are great places for them to hide and breed. These pests are known to carry several diseases that are spread through their feces, urine, and bite wounds. Suffice it to say, once you notice little droppings, or even see the little tail of an unwanted friend, it’s time to call in the professionals, for where you see one, there are ten others in the woodwork.
Wasps
The annual summer bane of homeowners, wasps love to settle inside roofs. This roof pest typically builds nests in areas easy for them to access. Unfortunately, these nests tend to be difficult for homeowners to find. Despite their small size, wasps pose danger to you and your family and should be dealt with immediately.