Home & Real Estate

Common Reasons For Roof Damages and What to Do About It

Common reasons for roof damage include missing tiles and shingles and the effects of heavy storms on roof construction. These storms bring torrents of rain and thunder, as well as hail. These elements can cause water damage and leaks. Fortunately, these problems are preventable.

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Standing Water

The accumulation of standing water on a roof is one of the most common causes of roof damage. This type of water can form mold, accelerating your house’s aging process. It will also weaken and rust your metal and wood roofs. Ultimately, this water can cause your entire roof to collapse or deform. To avoid such a situation, hire professional roofing companies in Phoenix to come and assess your roof.

Ice Dams

Ice dams can be prevented by ensuring that the attic is well-ventilated. If the attic is not sealed, you can use a weather stripping cap over the attic hatch to prevent warm air from penetrating the space. Warm air inside the attic can melt snow on the roof and freeze it, creating an ice dam. Make sure that all vents are outdoor-facing.

Tree Branches

Tree branches can damage the roof if they are too low and are not trimmed regularly. These branches may be light or heavy, but they can still scratch and break the shingles over time. They can also clog gutters. Therefore, ensuring that it is properly maintained is essential regardless of the type of tree.

Heat

Heat damage to your roof can lead to some issues. Roofs are constantly exposed to high temperatures, and UV rays are susceptible to damage. High temperatures can also lead to rapid expansion and contraction of roofing materials, weakening their integrity. Metal roofs are particularly vulnerable to this problem.

UV Rays

UV rays from the sun damage a roof in several ways. First, they damage the roof’s protective coating, protecting it from weather-related damage. Exposure to ultraviolet rays can cause the coating to rip and rupture. This exposes the underlying layers of the roof to the elements, accelerating the process of damage and leading to roof leaks.

Walking On The Roof

Although walking on a roof is not the worst thing you can do, you should exercise caution. This can damage shingles and other roof elements, such as underlayment. Additionally, the pressure from walking on the roof can cause significant stress to the shingles. Furthermore, if you aren’t careful, you could fall off your home, resulting in severe injuries.

Stagnant Water

Stagnant water can damage your roof in a variety of ways. For example, it can cause mold and mildew to grow in it, damaging the roofing material and causing structural issues. Standing water can also lead to leaks and is especially hazardous on flat roofs. The best way to prevent this problem is to get a roof inspection annually from a professional contractor.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes are one of the most destructive natural disasters that can cause extensive damage to your home. With winds exceeding 261 mph, these tornadoes can flatten homes and send cars and debris flying. Tornadoes can also travel for several miles before dissipating. If you live in a tornado zone, be prepared for damage to your roof.