Solutions

Common Roof Problems Plaguing Homeowners

All roofs should be in good condition to protect your home and family but wear and tear from the elements tends to wear down roofs and leave them vulnerable to the forces of nature. Roofs can suffer from a host of problems. Some can be minor such as algae that causes staining on roof, seeping moister that make shingles blister, or blown-off or missing shingles. Some problems are a result of poor work done initially on the roof such as buckling shingles as result of poorly laid underlayment, improperly stacked shingles, or when a roof is improperly laid over an existing roof and the shingles begin to cup or curl. Even snow can cause roof problems. When snow melts and then refreezes at the end of the roof it form an ice dam. This happens as a result of the snow packing on the roof and then melting as a result of the heat being released from the home. The water makes its way down but refreezes as it is exposed to the freezing temperature creating a dam of ice. An ice dam can cause water to backup a roof and that can lead to leaks under the roof system or through the flashings.

Prevention and Maintenance

Routine maintenance of you roof can prevent more costly damage in the long run. You should inspect your roof several times a year. If you discover algae, lichen, or moss growing on your roof you should apply a solution to inhibit the spread or further growth of these funguses. If you have a wood roof, you should make sure to treat it in a timely manner to ensure that it will last and to prevent it from rotting. You should always make sure all gutters and valleys are clear of any obstruction and debris. Clean all gutters regularly. Trim back any overhanging tree branches and pull back or trim any vines and/or creepers that grow on to the roof or gutters.

Preventive Measures

Copper flashings installed under the top course with more than one-inch exposed and the insertion of copper flashing strips 15 feet apart will deter the growth moss, mildew, and algae on wood roofs. The ordinary corrosion from the metal inhibits the growth of these funguses. Removing snow from your roof after a heavy snow fall can help prevent leaks and water damage that may occur from ice dams.

Replacing a Roof

If you have had your roof for a number of years and need to replace it, you might find things have changed since the last time you had work done on your roof. Building codes have changed in many areas of the country and now have to meet more stringent codes that may even limit the type of material you are allowed to use. Any dwelling designated a historic site will have to abide by very strict restriction that will include using only original materials utilized in the original construction or authorized substitutions for all construction work done on the property including the roof. Local laws may restrict the type of materials you can use on your structure or even the design of your roof. Planned communities also have strict regulations and replacing a roof in one of these communities will limit your options.

Some common forms of roof problems include:
- Roof leaks and moisture
- Ponding water
- Punctures or broken tiles
- Shrinkage
- Blistering