Roofs can take a lot of beating before they need to be replaced. This is why keeping an eye on the roof and being aware of roofing problems is an important responsibility of a homeowner. Here are the most common roofing problems homeowners face.
1. Storms – Of all weather-related events, storms can inflict the most damage on a roof. The combination of high winds and rainwater can force moisture into vulnerable areas like the roof edge. High winds can also tear off asphalt shingles and toss debris into the air, which can cause impact damage. Storm damage is one of the most common reasons for filing an insurance claim.
2. Poor ventilation – Lack of attic ventilation can trap hot and humid air in the attic, which can result in damage to the roofing structure. A properly designed roof should have exhaust vents at the ridges, which should release hot and humid air. This action creates negative pressure in the attic, which should pull cool and fresh air through the vents located at the soffits. In addition to helping prevent structural damage, attic ventilation also helps lower the amount of heat that radiates indoors.
3. Installation errors – Installation errors are one of the most common causes of roofing failure, and hiring a good roofing contractor can help prevent it from happening to your home. When hiring roofing contractors, make sure their warranties include workmanship coverage. Many roofing manufacturers offer both factory and workmanship coverage through certified contractors.
4. Tree branches – There are benefits to having trees in the yard – they provide shade that can help cool down your roof – however, overhanging tree limbs can scrape the protective granules off asphalt shingles or the coatings off metal roofing. They may also fall on the roof during a storm. Furthermore, they let small animals like squirrels onto the roof. Tree branches need to be trimmed with at least 10 feet of clearance between the rooftop and the outermost branches. If you’re unsure how to trim the branches without harming the tree, a local arborist can do it for you.
Renovation Team is your leading provider of roofing and siding services. Give us a call at (636) 428-3634. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in St. Louis, St. Charles and Creve Coeur, MO.