The investment you made in your house, as well as everything inside, is protected by having a good roof over your head. Your roof, on the other hand, can only be as trustworthy as the business that installs it. That is why it is critical to hire a reputable and trustworthy roofing contractor. Having said that, no roof is unbreakable. Problems can happen from time to time, and the best thing you can do is prepare yourself. A competent roofing contractor can pinpoint the source of your roof problem and quickly resolve it. However, knowing the most frequent causes of roof damage can help homeowners do everything they can to prevent it and get any necessary roof repairs done quickly.
The top 10 causes of common roof problems in Florida that may necessitate roof repair are listed below.
- Lack of Maintenance
You should have your roof inspected at least once a year. Following any significant storm events, you should schedule a professional inspection. Many things can go downfall with your roof over time, and you must stay on top of it on a regular basis to keep it in good working order. Mildew, sagging, and huge holes are all signs of a roof that has been neglected.
- Inadequate Ventilation
The key to a long-lasting, resilient roof is proper ventilation. Vents should be located near the top and near the bottom of the roof, either at the eaves or in the soffits. Because we all know that heat rises, cool air enters from the bottom and warm air exits from the top. Proper ventilation also aids in the retention of heat and moisture in your attic. Otherwise, heat and moisture buildup on your roof’s structure can lead to deterioration and premature ageing. Inadequate ventilation also increases energy expenses and promotes the growth of mould and mildew.
- Wind & Storm Damage
Although high-wind-resistance shingles will withstand larger and longer winds in Florida, the wind will still have an influence. Wind damage can cause shingles to blow off, bend over, or loosen. Overhanging tree branches may shake and harm your roof as a result of this. Wind damage is highly likely during a storm, especially if it’s a hurricane or the wind speed is high.
- Roof Leaks
It doesn’t matter what kind of roof you have; if you develop a leak, you have a problem. Your roof is designed to function as a container’s lid. This lid’s purpose is to keep everything within dry. Once a leak has been discovered, the only thing you can do is try to patch it immediately to limit the damage. Leaks can happen for a variety of causes; the issue is recognising them in time and starting the restoration immediately.
- Exposure to UV Light
Although certain roofing shingles are UV-light resistant, years of exposure to extreme ultraviolet rays can cause your roofing to fade in colour and lose strength.
- Plants
Overhanging tree limbs can abrade the shingles’ surface and wear away the protective top layer, causing the roof to deteriorate. Branches falling on the roof can cause even more significant damage.
- Improperly Installed Flashing
Flashing is what seals the sections of your roof that have been breached (vent pipes, skylights, chimneys, and heating and cooling systems, for example). When flashing is improperly installed, it can result in open seams and laps, causing tiles to blow off. In addition, improperly installed flashing might diminish your roof’s puncture resistance.
- Roof Debris in Excessive Amounts
The accumulation of leaves, sticks, dirt and other types of roof debris on your shingles can obstruct effective water drainage. Puddling, moisture buildup, and roof degradation may occur as a result of this. Roofs can also be damaged by branches and debris during a windstorm.
- Failure of the Ridge Cap
Your ridge caps are exposed to the most wind of any portion of your roof. They frequently require replacement or repair before the rest of the roof. Failure to fix this problem could result in a roof leak.
- Critters
Small creatures, birds, and insects have the potential to do a lot of damage. It’s preferable to expel them before they have a chance to establish a footing.
Working with reliable providers is one of the best ways to deal with common causes of leaking roofs. Hire someone who has previously worked with a friend, neighbour, or coworker wherever possible. You are less likely to encounter an issue if they come highly recommended.