We often talk about all the ways we can fix up your roof and how to keep it in good shape, but do you know what the most common causes of damage to roofs are?
Understanding the most likely ways that a roof can be negatively impacted allows you the opportunity to stay ahead of what could go wrong. Then, you can make any changes you might need to.
Let’s take a look at the four most common ways a roof can be damaged:
- Storm damage- From snow storms to high winds, and everything in between, your roof goes through a lot during heavy weather. Snow can build up and cause ice dams and leaks. If you have any prior damage, rain can easily cause leaks as well. Heavy winds can sometimes pull back and fold shingles if they are not strong enough. This is why it is so important to stay on top of roofing repairs.
- Falling trees and branches- Any large tree or tree branch that is close to your home can become a problem. Become aware of each and every tree and how sturdy it is. If a tree is dead, have it removed immediately. If the branches are hanging over your roof, they can fall and cause damage, or even just pull up shingles from scratching at them during heavy winds. This can be solved by cutting down those large branches, or just calling a professional to trim or remove the tree. This will be much cheaper than having to replace your roof or repair holes in it.
- Clogged or broken gutters- Anytime a gutter is clogged or not working properly, it can cause water to back up and pool on the roof. If it is cold out, this can become an ice dam. Otherwise, it can cause leaks. Constantly have your gutters checked for clogs or the need for repairs. If needed, just clean out your gutters, have a professional clean them, or simply have them replaced. Again this is much easier and cheaper than having to patch up or replace a roof.
- Avoiding making repairs- When you avoid necessary repairs, a small hole, dent, or folded shingle can easily turn into a much bigger problem. If you know that your roof is really old and hasn’t been replaced in a long time, it is important to stay aware of how it is looking. This can be done with inspections. We always offer free inspections, and many roofing companies do. If you aren’t sure how your roof is holding up, give us a call so we can take a look.
