Recognizing When it’s Time for Re-roofing
Your roof protects one of your most valuable and cherished assets – your home. However, roof structures are complex, and sometimes it can be difficult to diagnose a roofing problem, or determine when re-roofing is necessary. Often, as a homeowner, you’ll notice the symptoms of roof damage before you are able to determine what the source of the damage is. Key signs of roof damage are leaks – those which are directly visible, those which are detectable by the odors which dampness causes and areas of your roof suffering from missing materials or deterioration. Knowing the common causes of roof damage will help you to identify the root cause of the problem and decide whether it’s time to call in the professionals for re-roofing.
What lurks behind the leak?
Leaks can be caused by a number of roof problems, many of which can cause serious damage later on if left unresolved. Getting to the bottom of what is causing a leak as soon as possible can save you a lot of money and trouble down the line.
- Faulty Flashing: Flashing is metal sheeting which is used to prevent water seepage where tiles or shingles meet other surfaces, such as walls and chimneys. If the flashing was poorly installed, incorrectly sealed or has rusted over time, water will seep into the walls and framing, causing rot and structural damage. If this occurs, you will need to have new flashing installed, which will also likely involve replacing any rotting wood.
- Damaged Tiles And Shingles: The gale force winds, torential rains, hail storms, and blistering summer heat experienced in Florida all lead to gradual roofing wear and tear. Damage to the exterior materials of your roof such as tiles or shingle can leave your underlayment susceptible to UV and water damage, which could eventually result in seepage. Sometimes, only individual areas may need to be repaired – but if your roof is particularly old and weather-beaten, it’s probably time for a re-roof.
- Ponding water / Flat roofs: This occurs when a poorly designed roof does not facilitate water run-off, so water ponds instead of being diverted off the roof. This can cause leakage and eventually rot. If you notice ponding on your roof, it’s likely you will need to speak to roofing contractors to determine how best to improve the roof’s design for proper water flow.
- Clogged Gutters: A backed-up gutter will hold water instead of draining it, which can then cause leakage. Clear out your gutters regularly. You may find that your gutter has been installed without asplash guards If your gutter does not have splash guards, water may flow over the gutters or seep in under the tiles or shingles and eventually cause the fascia to rot.
Beating the blow-off
Gale force winds and hurricanes are particularly destructive. When roof materials are blown off or lifted by wind, the roof is left vulnerable to water damage. This sort of problem will be visibly detectable, and repairs or re-roofing should be done as soon as possible.
Noises in the night
Are you hearing any unsettling noises in the night and wondering if your house is haunted? Don’t despair – most roofs are made out of materials which contract and expand with heat and cold and are likely to create creaking sounds. While ensuring your roof vents and plumbing lead stacks screened are properly sealed is a good start. If the noise is especially loud, it may indicate roof damage, which will require professional attention. Call the experts at AABCO Roofing for any of your roofing needs.
