Common Causes of Roof Damages
Whether you’re repairing a leaking roof, installing a new one, or needing to replace an old one, it’s important to consider some common causes of roof damage. These include improperly installed shingles, harsh weather conditions, improper ventilation, and moss and lichen.
Harsh Weather Conditions
One of the most common causes of roof damage is harsh weather conditions. These conditions can cause ice dams, freezing cracks, and condensation. As a result, your roof may lose its stability. This can lead to a higher repair bill. Luckily, there are ways to detect roof damage before it gets worse.
Harsh weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and wind, can ruin your roof. Constant exposure to these elements can tear it down, creating unwanted pools of water. In severe cases, harsh hurricanes can wipe out entire roofs in one fall. Exposure to the sun can also damage your roof beyond repair. That is why regular monitoring and maintenance are crucial to maintaining a roof in good condition. A roof repair St Louis County MO expert will be able to identify and repair any damages quickly and efficiently.
Improper Installation Of Shingles
Improper installation of shingles is one of the most common causes of roof damage. When shingles are not installed properly, they lose their holding power, causing them to fall off the roof. Even worse, if shingles are not replaced immediately, the damage may not be apparent until the shingles have already fallen off the roof. Therefore, it is best to hire a professional roofing contractor to check the condition of your roof.
Incorrect installation of shingles can also lead to leaks and deterioration of the roof. The first sign of a deteriorating roof is the appearance of curling shingles. This is caused by nails that are installed too high on the shingle. This causes the top layer to come apart and the bottom layer to slide off the roof.
Improper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential for a roof’s longevity. A lack of ventilation can lead to thermal shock, damaging shingles. It also can cause mold and other health concerns. Improper ventilation can also cause rust to form on metal components. This can eventually lead to plumbing and ventilation failure.
Improper ventilation can be difficult to detect. The result is a costly repair bill. Fortunately, advanced roofing companies can help. They can perform a free drone inspection to evaluate your roof’s ventilation problems.
Lichen And Moss
Lichen and moss can damage a roof by breaking down shingles and exposing structural components. They can also increase your insurance rates, so you should keep your roof clean. In addition to physical damage, lichen and moss are potential causes of mold growth. Fortunately, these problems can be prevented with proper care.
The first step in preventing roof damage caused by lichen and moss is to prevent its growth. Once it has begun to grow, lichens can damage the roof’s surface, especially if it gets wet. You can prevent this by getting help from a professional who knows how to clean the roof safely.
Rats
Rats are one of the most common causes of roof damage in homes and businesses. They live in the roof space of homes and usually feed in the evening and early morning. This habit allows them to take advantage of the cool temperature to get their food. These animals typically feed in groups of five to ten and return to the same food source. In addition, they have excellent climbing abilities, so they can easily access the upper part of your structures.
Ice Dams
Ice dams can cause serious damage to the roof of your home. They cause shingles to lift, clogged gutters, and water back up in the home. This water can ruin the sheetrock, exterior walls, and even paint. In addition, they can lead to warped floors and stained ceilings. They can also cause soggy insulation in the attic, losing its R-value and attracting mold. If you suspect that you might have an ice dam on your roof, don’t attempt to remove it yourself. This can cause further damage to your roof and could endanger the plants in the area. Instead, try to use a box fan to direct the cold air at the ice dam to freeze the water.