Your roof is exposed to the elements 24/7 and it takes a beating to protect your home, but most homeowners don’t pay much attention to their roof until something goes wrong. Knowing the common causes of roof damage will help you know when to inspect your roof and what to look for, so you can address any issues before they escalate into serious problems.
1. Severe Weather
Inclement weather is the most common cause of roof damage, and it’s always a good idea to perform a roof inspection after a severe weather event.
- Hail damage might not seem significant because it’s sometimes hard to see, but a hailstorm can destroy the granule layer on your shingles. When this layer is compromised, holes can wear in the shingles and create leaks.
- After high wind events, you might notice tears or cracks in your shingles, shingles that curve up at the corners, or some that are missing. This gap in your roofing materials can leave your roof exposed, making roof repair a top priority.
2. UV Sun Damage
Sunny skies might seem harmless compared to severe weather, but prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can be just as damaging to your roof. Colorado’s high altitude and intense sunlight accelerate wear and tear, making UV damage a common culprit for roof issues over time.
- Shingle Deterioration: Prolonged UV exposure weakens the asphalt in shingles, causing them to become brittle and prone to cracking. This can lead to leaks and costly repairs.
- Fading and Discoloration: UV rays can cause shingles to fade, impacting your home’s curb appeal and signaling potential structural wear.
- Heat Damage: Sunlight intensifies heat absorption, which can warp roofing materials and shorten their lifespan.
3. Overgrown Trees
While trees enhance your landscape and provide valuable shade, they can also present risks to your roof. From falling limbs to debris buildup, regular roof inspections are essential if you have trees on your property.
- Fallen Limbs: Storms can cause tree limbs to break, and if they fall on your roof they can damage your shingles or even the roof structure itself.
- Overhanging Branches: Branches that hang too close to your roof can scrape against the shingles, causing wear and damage over time.
- Pest Access: Tree branches near your home provide a bridge for critters and insects to reach your roof, where they can damage shingles, siding, and more.
4. Poor Installation or Repairs
The quality of your roof’s installation or repair work plays a significant role in its durability. Poor workmanship can leave your roof vulnerable to damage.
- Loose Materials: Improperly installed shingles or flashing can become loose over time, leaving your roof exposed to the elements.
- Leaks and Water Damage: Poor sealing can result in leaks, leading to water damage and structural issues.
- Premature Wear: Low-quality materials or shortcuts during installation can reduce the lifespan of your roof, increasing the need for frequent repairs.
5. Clogged Gutters
Gutters are essential for directing water away from your roof and home, but clogs can create problems that lead to roof damage.
- Water Backup: Clogged gutters can cause water to pool on your roof, potentially seeping under shingles and causing leaks.
- Ice Dams: In colder months, clogged gutters can contribute to ice dams, which add extra weight and create cracks in your roof.
- Shingle Damage: Standing water can cause shingles to warp or deteriorate over time.
Protecting your roof is crucial to maintaining the integrity of your home, and understanding the common causes of roof damage is the first step in proactive maintenance. If you suspect roof damage or want to stay ahead of potential problems, Lion Roofing & Gutters is here to help with professional inspections, preventative maintenance, and repair solutions tailored to your needs. Don’t wait until small issues turn into major headaches—contact us today!
