Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home. A damaged roof leaves your belongings and your family at risk. It can also lead to interior damage as well as increased heating and cooling costs. There are several common causes of roof damage. Knowing these potential causes can help you spot problems as soon as they begin.
Poor Maintenance – This is perhaps the biggest controllable cause of roof damage. If you can identify and address a problem or damage soon after it occurs and address it quickly, you can prevent more extensive damage and more expensive repairs later. Having a regular roof inspection by a roofing professional like Pyramid Roofing provides the best chance to spot problems early. Fixing problems quickly not only prevents further damage, but can also extend the life of your roof.
Wind Damage – Strong winds can loosen and lift roofing materials, which can lead to significant roof damage. Strong winds are capable of blowing parts, or even all, of your roofing materials completely off your home. If you’ve experienced strong winds or see signs of wind damage, you should have your roof inspected.
Hail Damage – We’ve all seen the damage hail can do to cars. It can do similar damage to your roof, denting your shingles, causing weak spots, and loosening the granules. Hail can do significant damage to your roof, but it is often undetectable from the ground. It’s always a good idea to have your roof inspected for damage after a hail storm.
Snow and Ice Damage – Kansas City gets its fair share of snow and ice in the winter. Most roofs can handle the typical amount of snow we get, but in some cases, extreme snow fall accumulations can put too much weight on your roof. This is more likely if your roof doesn’t have an adequate slope. Ice can also cause significant damage to your roof. Ice can collect in your gutters and along the lower edges of your roof. As snow and ice farther up on your roof melts, the ice blocks the natural flow, causing it to back up under flashing, shingles, and tar paper, where it will flow into your home causing interior water damage. In some cases, the melting ice can drip in your house for days.
Poorly Maintained Gutters – Gutters channel water away from your home to prevent mold and wood rot. When they become clogged, water collects, causing damage to the surrounding areas or overflowing. Clogged gutters can also pull away from the house, taking part of your roof with them.
Trees – Trees next to your house contribute to debris that can cause damage, clog your gutters, and trap moisture against your shingles. Branches can also fall off and damage your roof.
Corrosion – Flashing and other metal components of your roof are prone to corrosion. When they rust, they become brittle and may break or create holes in your roofing materials.
After significant weather events or anytime you suspect damage, it is recommended that you have your roof inspected by a reputable and qualified roofing contractor like Pyramid Roofing.
