Common Roofing Problems Homeowners Face – Part 1

Although routine maintenance and inspections are a vital part of keeping your roof system safe, no one can predict Mother Nature and her ways, especially in North Texas. There are several common roofing problems that homeowners can expect to face when having a new roof installed, repaired, and maintained.
Roofing problems range from simple fixes to the need for a brand new roof installation. Take a look at the following roofing issues and determine if your home is in need of professional help!

Damage to the roof system does not always mean major catastrophe. Strong winds, fallen branches, and other minor events can harm your roof. That in and of itself isn’t the problem. Missing shingles, leaks, and other issues become a huge burden when not dealt with immediately. Inspecting your roof regularly is a wise choice for your roofing investment.

One of the most common roofing issues is deterioration. While composite shingles are a great investment, over time, they can deteriorate from the harsh Texas heat—the sun’s UV rays. With constant sun rays, shingles begin to blister, dry, and crack. In the end, they fall off the roof leaving your roof exposed to more serious damage.

It’s important to ensure that your roof is never missing shingles. When the sheathing underneath shingles is exposed, your roof is more susceptible to leaks that can reach into your home’s interior.

Though North Texas doesn’t see much snow, unpredictable winter weather does affect your roof system. When snow and ice melt, they are more likely to go under the shingles and flashing. Once the water refreezes, the ice lifts the shingles, creating even more unprotected roofing.

Other weather that affects the roof system is wind. There’s no stopping a wind storm and when it comes with a fury, it can cause serious problems to the roof. As the wind blows, shingles are constantly being lifted. When the wind is strong enough, they tear off completely.

These top three common roofing problems are caused by weather that cannot be stopped. The only fix for these problems is to routinely inspect your roof for loose and missing shingles. If you find shingles in your yard, call a professional to come and make these repairs to prevent further damage.

Besides weather, another persistent problem is overhanding branches. As branches brush against shingles, they start tearing away at the protective top layer on shingles. Without this top layer, your roof is exposed to much more serious damage. Luckily, this problem is preventable. Keep tree branches trimmed away from the roof! This is not only useful for keeping the branches from rubbing against your shingles, but it keeps animals from easy access to your roof.

Common roof problems range from preventable to out of your control. The only way to ensure that your roof is safe from disaster is to hire a professional for at least two in depth inspections each year as well as regular self-inspections.