While roofs are designed to withstand harsh weather, storms and high winds can damage or loosen shingles and tiles. It is important to spot these signs and take action quickly to prevent water damage.
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Even a small crack in a shingle may seem like no big deal, but your roof is your home’s main line of defense against rain, snow, and ice. And if a gaping hole lets water in, it can cause serious issues, including structural damage and rot. So a little fix now can save you a lot of trouble later.
If you spot a shingle that’s missing or damaged, the first step is to assess whether it’s safe to get on your roof. If it’s a flat shingle and the edges are intact, it can be replaced by simply sliding a flat pry bar under the shingle’s edge and pulling it up. However, if the edges are damaged or the shingle is brittle, it’s best to let the pros handle this kind of repair.
Unless your roof is brand new, it will likely have sealant spots under the shingles that prevent them from lifting or peeling. These are usually yellow in color and resemble caulk. If the sealant is old or cracked, it can break apart, allowing water to seep into your home. So, if you have this issue, it’s important to remove the existing caulk and replace it with a high-quality product.
Your roof is exposed to a lot of environmental stress, including UV radiation and temperature changes. Over time, this can cause the shingles to heat up and expand, then cool down and contract. This repeated cycle can cause shingle deterioration and eventually lead to leaking.
Missing shingles and loose tiles can allow water to leak into your home, causing ceiling stains and wall watermarks. If the leaks go unrepaired, moisture can reach the wooden structure of your home, causing rot and mold. The good news is that most homeowners insurance policies cover the costs of roof replacement if you have sustained major damage from storms and other natural disasters. So, don’t hesitate to call a professional when you notice shingle or tile damage. They can help you choose the right kind of replacement material to minimize future problems. They will also provide you with a free estimate of your roof’s cost.
Leaking Gutters
The gutters on your roof serve to prevent water damage to the foundation and basement of your home. If they are leaking, it is important to repair them as soon as possible so that the excess water does not cause further damage or promote the growth of mold and mildew which can lead to health issues for your family.
Leaky gutters can be caused by a number of different things. The first is that the sealant on the corners and seams of your gutters can start to degrade over time. This can be easily remedied by replacing the sealant with a gutter specific type of sealant.
Gutters can also leak if they are not angled correctly. Your gutters should be angled slightly downward so that rainwater can flow freely into the downspouts. If your gutters are hung incorrectly, it can lead to them becoming detached from the fascia board or sagging. This can lead to the downspouts not draining properly and can result in water spilling over the gutters, onto the ground and into your home.
Gutter leaks can also be caused by the gutter fasteners coming loose or rusting over time. This is usually a result of the constant exposure to the elements and the changes in temperature over the years. Gutter fasteners should be checked on a regular basis and tightened or replaced as needed.
Another reason for gutter leaks is that they can be clogged with leaves, dirt and debris which will slow or stop the flow of rainwater. When this happens, the rainwater will overflow and spill out of the gutter and down the sides of your house. This can lead to foundation damage, rotting fascia boards and soffits, as well as leaks into the attic and basement of your home.
If you are experiencing any of the problems discussed above, it is important to call a roofing contractor as soon as possible for gutter repairs. When left unattended, leaky gutters can lead to a number of different safety and security concerns for your home including wood rot, rust, basement flooding, mold growth and damage to items stored in the attic.
Cracked Flashing
Roof flashing doesn’t get much attention but it’s one of the most important parts of a solid roof. This thin material, typically made of galvanized steel, keeps water from getting into places where it doesn’t belong. In fact, most roof leaks stem from cracking or missing flashing. So, it’s critical to understand how to spot flashing problems and to know when to call for repairs.
The most obvious sign that your roof flashing is in trouble is a noticeable gap or crack, visible where the flashing is supposed to be sealed tightly against surfaces. This can be due to age or physical damage, such as from inclement weather conditions like hail and wind, or it may be the result of incorrect installation.
In some cases, it’s possible to repair minor flashing issues, if you catch them early enough. For instance, if you notice that there are small holes from corrosion in your flashing you can fill them with roofing cement. If the hole is bigger than an inch, however, you should replace the damaged segment of flashing. Ensure that the new flashing is cut to size, fits properly and overlaps correctly with the existing flashing to create a watertight seal.
As a general rule, it’s advisable to leave all flashing repair to qualified roofers. Climbing onto your roof without the right equipment and training can be extremely dangerous, especially if you’re not familiar with how to identify and handle flashing issues. A professional will also be able to assess the extent of the damage and provide recommendations for comprehensive repairs.
Keeping an eye out for these common roofing problems is an easy way to protect your home from costly water damage. Regular visual inspections and timely repairs will prolong the life of your roof and minimize the need for replacement. In addition to avoiding expensive repair bills, maintaining the integrity of your roof will help to lower your energy costs by preventing heat and cold from seeping into your home. If you are looking for a local roofing contractor to help with your repair needs, Lyons Roofing is here to help!
Damaged Vents
There are many reasons that your roof may leak, and not all of them have to do with shingles or tiles. One of the most common is a vent that’s been damaged. Leaking roof vents can be a real problem, especially since they allow pests and moisture into the home.
There’s a few ways to fix this issue. One is to use caulk, which can be a quick and easy solution. Another is to replace the vent entirely. This is a more expensive option, but it will ensure that the problem doesn’t come back in the future.
The first step in repairing a leaking vent is to clear out any debris that’s clogging the area. This can be anything from leaves and twigs to birds’ nests or even dead animals. If you can safely access your rooftop, then this should be relatively easy to do. If not, you’ll need to hire a roofing professional to get the job done.
You should also clean the area around the damaged vent with a damp cloth. This will help to make sure that the caulk has a smooth surface and isn’t blocking the area. Then, you can apply a coat of primer to the area around the vent and then two coats of oil-based paint. After that, you can let the paint dry before using it to seal the vent.
When you’re finished with the project, you can test out your work by looking into your attic on a windy day to see if air is flowing through the vents as it should. You can also try running a fan in your attic to see if it helps to keep the area dry and cool.
It’s important to check your roof for damage regularly and take any necessary steps to repair it before it gets out of hand. By keeping your roof in good shape, you’ll prevent water damage and other problems down the line. It’s also important to remember that climbing on the roof is dangerous, so major repairs should always be left to professionals.