A leaking roof can lead to significant damage to your property. In addition, damaged roofs that go unrepaired can be dangerous, so when your roof is damaged, it is important to address it promptly. In many cases, you can minimize the risk to your roof and avoid costly repairs by completing routine maintenance, watching for signs of damage, and making small repairs when necessary.
5 Common Causes of Roof Damage
Consider these common causes of roof damage and the steps you can take to keep your property secure.
Roof Issue #1: Aging Shingles
As shingles age, they can crack or break, allowing water to penetrate your roof’s substructure. Once this occurs, significant repairs or roof replacement may be required.
Asphalt shingles have a relatively long lifespan, with most shingle roofs lasting about 20 years. However, excessive heat, sun, and wind that are common in coastal areas can speed the aging process.
To maximize the life of your roof, replace worn out sections of shingles as soon as they become evident. Additionally, an annual roof inspection can help you keep track of how your roof is aging and when it is time for repair or replacement.
Roof Issue #2: Hidden Roof Damage
Some types of roof damage can be hidden or go unseen for long periods of time, getting worse until the damage is irreparable. This situation often leaves replacement of your roof as the only option. To get the most life from your roof, have it inspected regularly – even if you haven’t noticed leaks.
For maximum life, a roofing expert should clean and inspect your roof for damage that might not be visible from the ground – at least annually. By keeping up with smaller repairs, you can greatly extend your roof’s useful life and ensure your property is safe.
Roof Issue #3: Storm Damage
In the coastal south, strong storms and hurricanes are common. These often come with high winds, hail, heavy rain, and debris that can damage your roof in a big way. For this reason, it is recommended that all homeowners and business owners invest in quality materials when installing a roof. High quality roofing materials can make a significant difference when it comes to minimizing storm damage.
In addition to investing in high quality materials, you can also protect your roof from catastrophic storm damage by having it inspected before the storm arrives. Storms can exacerbate existing roofing issues, so having those repaired before the next storm strikes can help your roof survive the damaging wind and rains. Most importantly, all the local, quality roofers will be swamped after a storm, so you may be left with a less-than-reputable service provider if you’re not already a customer. That’s why it’s important to have a relationship with a roofer before the storm, so you aren’t left out in the weather afterward.
Roof Issue #4: Extreme Temperatures
Extreme heat and UV rays, like those we experience in our service areas, can reduce your roof’s lifespan. In the coastal areas of the South, there is no escaping the heat or excessive sun. However, there are actions you can take to minimize the impact of the climate on your roof.
When replacing your roof, take steps to insulate, ventilate, and install a radiant barrier on the top of your home or building to minimize the impact of the harsh climate. An experienced roofing company can help you explore options for protecting your roof.
Roof Issue #5: Animal Damage
Critters… they’re everywhere, and unfortunately, animals such as raccoons, bats, squirrels, birds, bugs, and mice can dismantle your roof. If you notice animals nesting on your roof, act fast, but don’t try to remove them yourself. Instead, call an experienced roofing company immediately to assess the damage and make any necessary repairs.
Animals are just one common cause of holes in your roof. Debris, age, and poor installation of utility cables can also lead to gaps in your roof. These should be repaired quickly, by a licensed roofer, to avoid further damage.
When it comes to extending the life of your roof, small steps can make a big difference. Keeping your roof clean, watching for these common types of roof damage, and having your roof regularly inspected by a reputable roofing company can help prolong its useful life, ensure your safety, and save you money.
Get a No Cost Roof Inspection from the Experts at Complete Roofing
Complete Roofing is a licensed, bonded, and insured roofing company with locations on the Mississippi coast, Alabama coast, and in the greater New Orleans area. We offer no cost roof inspections, so you can always be aware of the condition of your roof. If our inspection uncovers any issues, we’ll repair your roof, provide easy financing, or handle your insurance claim from start to finish!
When you work with Complete Roofing, you receive outstanding customer service, the highest quality craftsmanship, and a variety of resilient materials. Additionally, our friendly customer service team makes it simple to file an insurance claim or apply for our low-cost financing program.
To schedule your no cost roof inspection, contact the experts at Complete Roofing today.