Your roof is one of the most vulnerable structures in your home. Although they are designed to withstand harsh conditions, roofs need to be maintained regularly to avoid disastrous damages due to prolonged exposure to sunlight, cold weathers, snowstorms, heavy rainfall, lightning, and thunderstorms, etc. Given the rough weather conditions it’s exposed to, it’s only natural for your roof’s condition to deteriorate over time. Damaged roofs could result in leaks, water damage, and mold infestation, and may eventually collapse. However, some issues can be easily fixed when spotted and handled early on. Here’s how to know when it’s time to call a professional roofing service.
Missing or Damaged Shingles
A missing or damaged roof shingle may not seem like a significant issue, however, if left neglected, it can easily trigger a larger issue. Typically, the severity of the problem depends on the size of the missing shingle or the extent of its damage. Though, keep in mind that even if a small portion of a shingle is missing, this could pave the way for interior damage, including mildew, mold, structural damage, water damage, and leaks. Not only does a missing shingle ruin a home’s curb appeal, but it can also create further roof damage. Water can pervade the other shingles if one is missing; this, along with sunlight exposure and other environmental conditions, can cause other surrounding shingles to loosen up or become damaged. A rotting sheathing, incorrect installation, harsh weather, or simply wear and tear are all reasons why your roof’s shingles may get damaged or go missing.
Granule Loss
Contrary to popular belief, mineral granules are not just part of the design aesthetic; they are added to shingles to protect them from sun exposure and increase fire resistance. Normally, shingles lose their granules over time; however, other factors such as heavy rains, storms, and hails can also result in the loss of this protective coating. Granule loss can be easily detected, as when granules get loose, they run through the gutter system along with water and pile up on the ground. You can also simply take a look at your roof to detect granular loss. Any spots or discoloration may suggest that it’s time to call a professional roofing service. Without a granular coating, you may experience leaks and further roof deterioration.
Moss-Covered Roof
The ideal environment for moss to grow would be wet, dark, and cool, which is often found in cold-climate cities like Toronto and Perth. While it may look harmless, and even aesthetically pleasing, a moss-covered roof is a sign that it’s time to consult a professional. Moss is naturally wet, which means that it will automatically create a damp environment where insects can grow. Not only is this damaging to the roof’s structure, but it can also cause the wood to rot. Moss is also characterized by its steady growth - as it grows, pests can dig their way under tiles, shingles, and shakes. Holes and thin openings that result from moss growth can lead to water leaks.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is the metal strips that are attached to the edges and seams of your roof. Flashing is designed to protect your roof’s most vulnerable spots, and if it gets cracked or bent, moisture will freely run along the seams of your roof. Although roofs are often protected by roofing felt or a similar underlayment, this layer can be easily damaged when exposed to excess moisture, eventually leading to leaks. This is especially a problem during the heavy rainfall season. Poor installations or repairs, accidentally stepping on or bending the flashing while maintaining the roof, aging, exposure to external environmental conditions, and snow or rainfalls that come along with winter may all be contributory factors to damaged roof flashing.
Algae and Mold
Your roof is prone to collecting algae and mold, especially if you live in a humid environment. The perfect environment for fast algae growth would be weather where heat is combined with moisture and shady, damp areas. Most roof shingles come with limestone fillers that provide nutrition for algae spores, making it the perfect environment for growth. Algae can negatively impact your home’s appearance, significantly decrease its value, can cause permanent stains and damage to the underlayment, can cause wood to rot, damage your roof’s integrity and structure, and can cause health problems if you start to breathe in the dangerous bacteria.
Many roofing issues may not seem significant at first sight. However, when left untreated, these problems can have detrimental consequences. To prevent serious issues, you must regularly maintain your roof. You must also call a professional roofing service as soon as you notice any signs of damage to prevent further harm.
