While you may not be able to completely protect your home and roof from high winds or major storms, many other threats can be managed with pro-activity and the right team on your side. As with most areas of home maintenance, resolving possible issues promptly is best. In addition to roof maintenance, business owners may also find benefit in hiring a roofing company to handle roof asset management. In today’s post, we’re covering six common causes of roof damage.
- Roof Leaks
The source of the roof leak is often due to shingles being damaged or worn, missing or loose. We also see leaks from corrosion or broken seals around areas such as chimneys, vents and skylights. Roof leaks are often tied to mold and mildew issues inside your home, electrical issues and damage to ceiling joists and walls.
- Improper Installation
Failing to vet your roofing team could mean questionable work that will cost you down the road (see our 24 Questions You Must Ask Your Roofing Company or Contractor). Do business with an experienced organization that has solid roots in your community, and one who shares their credentials, certifications and awards. When shortcuts are taken and materials and installation are compromised, the consequences can be costly.
- Clogged Gutters
Allowing debris to accumulate in your gutters means water will collect in areas not meant to stay immersed in moisture. In addition to the roof damage, you’re also inviting pests, some of which can wreak damage to wood and other materials.
4. Failed Waterproofing
Waterproofing can fail for several reasons, including poor design, faulty installation and skimping on maintenance. In a Facilities Net Building Operations Management article, author Karen Warseck mentions open laps as one issue: “Usually it means that the installer has failed to apply adhesive to the entire lap. Sometimes it is caused in built-up and modified-bitumen systems when the bitumen is applied too cold.” Warseck goes on to discuss splits in expansion joints due to poor installation or a roof’s age.
- Weather
We already mentioned severe weather such as hurricanes, tropical storms and tornadoes. Other culprits are hail, wind and extreme temperatures. The damage hail can impose on a roof depends on the type of roof and the size of hail (see Professional Roofing magazine’s table for hail thresholds). Regarding high wind damage, it can begin with winds of 45 mph according to the National Weather Service. Damage from extreme temperatures depends on the type of roofing system you have installed, including the materials used down to the fasteners.
- Fallen Trees
We recommend the Preventing Trees from Falling video from the Insurance Information Institute for some common signs to be aware of when examining trees on your property. Handling diseased, dead and leaning trees is a wise first step. Trim limbs that pose a risk and rely on a professional team when in doubt.
Make sure you partner with the best roofing company in your area. Bone Dry Roofing, locally owned and operated in Charleston, SC, Bone Dry Roofing, locally owned and operated in St. Simons, Bone Dry Roofing, locally owned and operated in Athens, GA. You can contact us today to talk about roof damage at 1-855-BONEDRY.
