Your roof is the most important structural feature of your home. And although homeowners generally treat it as “out of sight, out of mind”, there are some compelling reasons for you to keep a close eye on the roof over your head.
Of course, leaks are the biggest problem which a Sarasota homeowner generally faces when it comes roof maintenance, but there are many ways in which leaks can originate. Vigilance in roof maintenance can help you to avoid problems both large and small – so let’s take a look at the most common of these roofing issues.
Roofing Issues to Be Aware of
- Missing Tiles or Shingles: Your tile or shingle roofing material is the exterior layer of your roof. Underneath these materials is an underlayment, which is affixed to the roof deck. Although a missing shingle or tile only represents a top-level failure, it should be replaced right away. Any opportunity which water has to seep into your structure can cause problems to develop quickly. Check your roof periodically for missing or damaged materials, especially after storms, and have them replace as soon as possible. Doing so will help to prevent any longer term serious damage to your home.
- Ponding or Water Retention: Most residential roofing has enough pitch to discourage ponding, but if you have flat sections of your roof you will want to make sure that water is not collecting on the roof. This can cause erosion, and can also encourage algae growth and insect larvae. Even if your roof has pitch, check for debris or damage which may be causing water to back up and run off into areas it is not supposed to.
- Overhanging Tree Branches: Some people love the idea of shade over their roof to keep the attic – and their home – cooler. However, tree branches and limbs can cause a lot of damage if they scrape against the top roofing materials, or if they fall during a heavy wind or rain storm. Shade can also cause materials to remain damp and may cultivate algae and mold. Cutting away branches will help to preserve your roof, and may even help with your homeowner’s insurance. If you would like to explore ways to keep your roof cooler, look into roof coatings or sealants, as well as UV protected shingles and tiles.
- Clogged Gutters: Gutters are installed in order to efficiently move water away from your home’s roof, walls, and foundation. Gutters which get clogged with too much debris result in water spilling over the sides, running down the side of your home and causing damage. Gutters can also become clogged with asphalt shingle granules, or can be obstructed by an animal nest (see below). It is important to keep rainwater flowing freely through the gutter system, as backed up water can find an alternate way into your home and attic.
- Critter Nests & Habitation: From squirrels to raccoons, possums, birds and rats, critters making nests on the roof cause a number of roofing issues. They can chew through shingles, soffits and eaves, nest in your attic, and contaminate your insulation. If you see animals or birds frequently on the roof of your home, you will want to check to see if they have made a nest or burrowed into the interior of he attic – and get rid of them as soon as you can.
There is a simple way to identify and eliminate all of these roofing issues and protect your home and family – simply call [company_name] for an inspection and estimate. We will make sure your Sarasota or Venice roof is in top condition.
