Common Roof Damage Culprits

Your roof is one of your home’s first lines of defense against inclement weather. To ensure the roof is doing the best it can to keep your home and belongings secure, it’s the homeowner’s responsibility to keep the roof in tip-top shape. Here are some of the most common roof damage culprits that could leave your house and belongings exposed.

Weather Damage: There are a variety of weather incidents that can cause damage to the roof. High winds and torrential rains can loosen and rip shingles from the roof, loosen or damage flashings, and may cause debris that damages the roof. Snow and ice can contribute to moisture build-up that weakens the integrity of the roof. Hail is also a common cause of roof damage, as large hail stones can cause punctures and gouges in the roofing material.

Overhanging Trees: Overhanging trees are one of the most common causes of roof and structural home damage. While large branches can cause serious structural damage, small branches can also contribute to damage and are often overlooked. Branches landing on your roof can dislodge and damage shingles, cause holes or gouges, and lead to moisture buildup which can deteriorate shingles.

Walking & Standing on the Roof: Unfortunately, most homeowners are unaware they can cause damage to the roof simply by climbing atop the house and moving around. This can damage and dislodge shingles, and easily crack and destroy tiles if you have a tile roof. Not only is this physically dangerous but it can weaken the roof or leave unexpected damage that can worsen over time. Leave climbing on the roof to the professionals.

Aging: Roofs are like people. As they get older, they may not work as well and need to have parts replaced – if not a complete overhaul. Keep an account of the time frame when the roof was installed as well as the inspections that have occurred while under your ownership. Remember – there is no substitute for regular maintenance.

DIY Repairs: Many homeowners use DIY solutions for home maintenance and repairs, which may actually worsen the issue instead of improving it. DIY solutions may make the homeowner feel satisfied the issue is resolved, leading to a larger home repair bill than if they had addressed the original issue correctly in the first place. Roof repair DIY’s are especially dangerous and can lead to serious accidents. We advise leaving roofing issues to the professionals, who can resolve the issue quickly and safely, the first time.

As our home’s first line of defense against the elements, there is only so much we can do to prevent roof damage. The best thing you can do as a homeowner is to keep a watchful eye for potential damage sources, such as overhanging trees, and call a professional roofer at the first signs of damage. With proper and regular maintenance, you can avoid small problems becoming big problems. An annual roof inspection can help keep your roof in good shape and allow you to address small issues before they become expensive obstacles.

At Macbeth Roofing & Exteriors, we can provide professional roofing inspections to examine the life of your roof and advise you on damage and potential repairs. Macbeth Roofing & Exteriors provides professional roofing services throughout Central Virginia.