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If you’re looking up at your roof and wondering just what’s causing all the damage, we have the answers! From weather and age, to wear and tear, your roof takes a real battering year-round.
That’s why proper maintenance is key in order to keep your roof in good condition for as long as possible.
Most roof maintenance and repairs need to be carried out by roofers so whether you need a Frisco Roofer or a New York maintenance company, it makes sense for it to be the professionals who go up the ladders!
In this guide, we’re going to look at some of those causes of damage as well as provide hints and tips to help you keep your roof in perfect condition.
Causes of Roof Damage
So, let’s get straight to it and look at those key reasons why your roof needs repairing.
Wind Direction and Intensity
Roofs tend to experience more wear and tear when they face directly into the wind. Additionally, strong winds can loosen shingles or tiles and cause them to blow off the roof.
Pests
Animals like squirrels and raccoons can cause a lot of damage by chewing through roofs or ripping shingles apart.
They can also create holes that invite in water which can lead to further damage over time. Then there are the issues that insects can cause such as bee and wasp nets
Debris
Falling branches or leaves, as well as dirt and debris, can impact roofs and guttering causing serious damage. Debris also creates an ideal environment for pests, resulting in further damage down the road.
Age
Aging roofs often start exhibiting problems such as leaks, warping, and moss growth due simply to natural deterioration processes. However, with regular maintenance, you can prolong a roof’s life.
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How Can You Tell If Your Roof Needs Repairs?
Sometimes it’s very obvious that you need some urgent roof repairs, but there can be times when you might not be sure if you need to invest in maintenance tasks before the winter season kicks in.
If you are unsure if your roof needs repairs, take a look at the following signs:
1. Leaks
Obviously, water coming in anywhere within your home is a sign that there is damage or weakness somewhere on the roof. Not only is this an indication of needing repairs now, but it also could be a sign of even greater damage that could lead to much bigger problems in the future if not addressed promptly.
2. Age
Roofs don’t have an indefinite lifespan. If your roof is well past its expiration date, then that’s definitely something to consider when judging whether or not repairs are necessary. It’s important to note though that just because your roof is aging does not mean it automatically needs replacing; many roofs can last much longer with proper maintenance.
3. Curling or Sagging Roofing Materials
When materials such as asphalt shingles start to curl upwards or sag downwards, it’s usually indicative of moisture damage and underlying decay which needs urgent attention.
4. Moss Growth or Algae Accumulation
While moss itself isn’t necessarily harmful, it often grows in areas where there is excess moisture present…which definitely isn’t a good sign for roofs! In the same vein, the accumulation of algae can also be symptomatic of leaks and other water damages issues.
What Are the Most Important Things to Keep in Mind When Maintaining Your Roof?
There are a few important things to always keep in mind when it comes to roof maintenance:
- inspecting your roof regularly for any damage or wear and tear, and addressing these issues as soon as possible
- using only quality materials and following the manufacturer’s instructions during repairs/installations
- keeping trees trimmed back from your home so they’re not damaging your roof with their branches
How Often Should You Have Your Roof Inspected for Potential Problems?
A roof inspection is an important part of home maintenance, and the frequency with which you should have your roof inspected will vary depending on its condition.
A good rule of thumb is to inspect your roof twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. You might now be wondering whether you can carry out the inspection yourself.
Well, you could, and you might be able to see obvious issues from the ground. However, without actually getting up onto the roof there might be problems that you just can’t see.
This is when getting in a professional roofing maintenance company can pay dividends in keeping your roof in perfect condition.
