Surprising Causes of Roof Damage

An efficient and functional roof is not just good for aesthetics. A quality roof keeps your family comfortable, prevents water infiltration damage, and lowers the risk of electrical hazards. All of these factors make a strong case for maintaining your roof and being aware of the causes of roof damage. Discover some possible culprits of roof damage and how to prevent these issues.

Poorly Maintained Gutters

Gutters play a vital role in protecting your roof from water damage. The gutters channel water away from your roof. If this component fails or becomes clogged, water will have nowhere to go but sit on the roof and cause damage.

To prevent this problem, invest in regular gutter inspections for signs of damage or clogs. You may have to repair or replace the gutters based on the extent of damage to protect the roof.

Lack of Tree Trimming

Trees can provide much-needed shade and protection for your home. But if you don't maintain the trees properly, you put your roof at risk of damage.

First, overhanging branches can touch and scratch the roof, which increases the risk of premature roof wear. Also, the branches may fall and puncture the roof during a storm.

Falling leaves and needles can clog gutters, and as mentioned, gutter blockage is a major contributor to roof damage.

Additionally, tree branches over the roof hinder the sunlight, which can contribute to the growth of algae and mold on your roof. The fungi may eat away at your roofing material and eventually cause leaks.

Trees are also home to animals like squirrels and raccoons. These animals can use the trees as a bridge to access your roof. Once on the roof, they can cause severe damage, such as chewing holes through the roof or tearing off shingles.

To protect your roof from these dangers, regularly trim overhanging branches and remove dead leaves and needles from the gutters. If you have any concerns about large trees near your home, consult a professional tree service for removal or trimming services.

UV Damage

The sun's ultraviolet (UV) light breaks down the asphalt in shingles, which causes them to become brittle and eventually break down.

This issue is prevalent in old roofs. Therefore, the best way to prevent UV roof damage is to replace an old roof as soon as you suspect that the roof has served its lifespan.

Strong Winds

Strong winds can cause damage to any roof, but it's significantly damaging to roofs with loose or missing shingles. The high winds can lift the shingles and expose the underlying roofing material to the elements. Wind may also bend and crack the shingles, resulting in premature roof wear.

Invest in frequent roof inspection if your area is prone to high winds. Professionals will be able to identify any loose or missing shingles and replace them before they cause severe damage.

Poor Installation

If your roof wasn't installed properly, it's only a matter of time before the roof starts to show signs of damage. For example, if the flashing is poorly installed, you're at a higher risk of leaks.

The best way to prevent poor installation is to hire a reputable, experienced contractor for your roof installation or repair project. Make sure to research and get referrals from trusted sources before you make your final decision.

P & G Roofing is your trusted partner for all your roofing needs. We have extensive experience in the industry, and our team of experts is dedicated to providing quality workmanship and excellent customer service. We offer full-service roofing, from installation to repair, and you can count on us to advise you on how best to maintain your roof to prevent damage. Contact us or check our website for more details.