If you are a homeowner, you realize the importance of keeping the roof in good condition. It protects you and all your possessions within the house. However, it is the most exposed part and affects several environmental calamities daily. So, roof damage is unavoidable.
But when you make rapid repairs, you can cut down on expensive restoration and fixes. Therefore, it is essential to understand the factors that cause roof damage for quick diagnosis and navigation of the problem. In persuasion, we have compiled a list of the most common reasons for roof damage and some expert tips to prevent them. So, read on if you are looking for ways to protect your home.
6 most common reasons for roof damage
- Pooling and Puddling
- Leaf & Moisture Build-up
- Use Of Incorrect Materials
- Nesting Pests & Animals
- Poor Installation & Repairs
- Debris Build-up
1. Pooling and puddling
Pooling or puddling refers to water accumulation in specific areas of your roof. Though it is normal for water to pool and puddle after a rainstorm, if the water isn’t drained immediately, the same can lead to serious damage to your roof.
The stagnant water puts up an unnecessary load and even leads to the development of moss and mold. In addition, it weakens your roof and allows water to seep in and cause roof damage. Therefore, it is important to check for signs of pooling and puddling to take remedial actions as soon as possible.
2. Moisture and leaf build-up
While trees and plants beautify your home’s landscape, they can lead to severe gutter and roofing problems. In addition, when the leaves are left on the roofs for a prolonged period, it leads to rotting and deterioration of roofing materials. So, keeping an eye on leaves and other debris accumulation on roofs is essential.
3. Use of incorrect materials
As no two roofs are the same, you must choose the roofing materials for repairs and replacements accordingly. The moment you ensure the correct details for your roof, it will ascertain you don’t encounter any problems in the future. That said, homeowners must always look out for professional roofing services. Roofing professionals adhere to high-quality materials, repairs, replacement, and other roof-related services for their clients.
4. Nesting pests and animals
If pests and animals are allowed to nest and take shelter on your roof, they not just can lead to serious damage to your roof but also can give rise to the health and safety of you and your loved ones.
Birds, rodents, or other pests and animals can nest on your roof, tear holes in roofing material, damage insulation, clog gutters, and can even give rise to several other damages to your roof and attics.
5. Inadequate ventilation
Another significant reason for roof damage which is often overlooked, is inadequate roof ventilation. It can lead to several problems. Inadequate ventilation leads to the growth of mold and mildew as moisture and heat escape becomes difficult. Also, it promotes premature deterioration of your roofing materials.
It is vital to ensure that the roof is properly ventilated. The most promising way to do this is by installing vents in your soffits and ridge line or else installing a solar-powered attic fan.
6. Debris build-up
Along with leaves, other plant matters, such as branches and twigs around your home, can also damage the roof. For example, when branches constantly rub against your roof, it can wear down roofing materials and give rise to leaks.
Additionally, when the accumulated debris remains for a prolonged period, it starts to act as a sponge- soaking up water and causing similar deterioration issues similar to leaf build-ups. So, it is vital to trim off trees and bushes near your roof and keep an eye on debris accumulation on roofs.
Endnote
Roof damage can lead to a range of severe problems. However, the same is preventable to a greater extent when spotted earlier. So it is essential to understand the common reasons for roof damage and the proactive steps you need to undertake to address such roofing problems.
This is the correct way to keep your roof in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the line. Mentioned above are the most common reasons behind roof damage and now, when you know them, get them fixed in time.
However, choose only to hire a professional roofing company for any roof-related work. Only professional roofers have the adequate knowledge and expertise to spot potential problems in time and prevent them from worsening down the line.