COMMON ROOFING PROBLEMS

COMMON ROOFING ISSUES IN AUBURN, MAINE

WHEN CHOOSING THE MOST SUITABLE MATERIAL FOR YOUR ROOF, YOU PROBABLY CONSIDERED SEVERAL ELEMENTS, SUCH AS DURABILITY, LIFESPAN, AND COST

However, even the sturdiest roofs will ultimately face wear and tear; it’s just a question of when. Below are the most common roofing materials and the issues they typically encounter:

DEFECTIVE ROOFING MATERIALS

Whether tiles were inadequately installed, shingles were cracked, or other materials were dislodged during a storm, any damage or misplacement of roofing components undermines the roof's integrity and leads to multiple issues. Even a high-quality, well-installed roof can suffer damage over time due to environmental conditions. Some roof accessories may not have the same lifespan as shingles and will require replacement during the roof's life cycle.

Underestimating the importance of your shingles is a frequent oversight. While damaged or curling shingles may not seem urgent, they expose your roof to harsh weather, increasing vulnerability to further damage. The longer you ignore damaged shingles, the more likely you are to face deeper issues, like rotting sheathing.

WATER INTRUSION

Following heavy rains or snowstorms, water pooling on your roof can result in mold or mildew growth, harming roofing materials and leading to leaks or structural harm. If your roof has minor openings or weak spots, standing water can infiltrate and cause leaks. This is particularly common with flat roofs, although all roof types need effective drainage. Stagnant water can also lead to ice dams, resulting in rotting soffits or fascia boards, which may spread damage throughout the roof and attract pests.

Regular roof maintenance can significantly reduce the risk of leaks and water damage. Schedule routine check-ups or consult a qualified contractor if you have any concerns.

ROOF LEAKS

Roof leaks are prevalent and can arise from various factors, such as insufficient insulation, poor ventilation, ice dams, worn-out pipe boots, or improper installations. If you notice water trickling down your walls, a leaking roof is likely to blame. Look for signs of leaks, such as water stains or mold. Once a leak is detected, it’s crucial to address it promptly to minimize damage. If left untreated, leaks can cause extensive and costly damage, as well as structural issues. At the first indication of a leak, contact a roofing repair expert for a thorough inspection.

IMPROPER ROOF FLASHING

Flashing, made from weather-resistant materials like plastic, aluminum, or steel, is installed in vulnerable areas of your roof to protect joints and fixtures, such as chimneys or skylights, ensuring these areas remain sealed to prevent leaks. When flashing becomes damaged or compromised, these connections are exposed to moisture. Proper installation and securing of flashing are essential; otherwise, you may encounter issues. Damaged flashing should be promptly repaired or replaced by a roofing professional.

INADEQUATE INSTALLATION

Choosing inexperienced or unqualified roofing contractors can cost you more in the long run. Poorly installed roofs are a major cause of mold, shortened lifespan, and long-term complications. While you may save some money initially, this risk can lead to significant issues. It's wise to hire a reputable roofing contractor for professional installation, as roofing can be a hazardous task without proper experience.

Pro Tip: Investigate who will be performing the roofing installation. The sales representative may be knowledgeable, but their team might not be trained properly. Don’t hesitate to ask questions.

TREE DAMAGE

Falling tree branches can inflict severe harm to your roof, but even smaller branches can cause damage over time as they scrape against the surface. They can gradually erode the top layer of the roof, leading to issues with shingles or flashing. Additionally, debris and leaves can obstruct water flow in gutters, resulting in leaks and damage to your home. It's advisable to trim or remove trees that threaten the integrity of your roof.

If you’re unable to clear your gutters regularly, consider hiring a service. If you do venture up there, take the opportunity to inspect for any damage from branches or debris and remove it if safely possible.

CLOGGED OR FAULTY GUTTERS

Clogged or malfunctioning gutters can create leaks along the roof's edge, backups, and standing water that may seep into the eaves, causing rot. Standing water in gutters indicates improper drainage from your roof, which can lead to other roofing issues. Overflowing water from blocked gutters can also damage your foundation.

Various factors can cause gutters to malfunction, including improper slope or the buildup of leaves and debris. Installing a drip edge or gutter screens can help prevent this. If your gutters are clean but still overflow, inspect for potential damage, like rot, rust, or cracks.

DAMAGED SHINGLES

Shingles can sustain damage from high winds displacing them, falling branches, or even animals nesting near the roofline. Whatever the cause, it’s crucial to repair damaged shingles promptly to avoid further complications, which could become more costly if neglected.

COMPROMISED FLASHING

Flashing can fail to function properly if installed incorrectly or if it becomes rusted or corroded. It can be challenging to identify damaged flashing, but corrosion is a clear indicator that further investigation is needed. Signs of water damage in your attic or interior walls, such as stains or mold, may point to compromised flashing. Addressing damaged flashing early can prevent more extensive damage and is typically less expensive than a full roof replacement.

MATERIAL SHRINKAGE

Different types of shingles have varying susceptibility to material shrinkage. Roof shrinkage occurs when the membrane contracts, often due to aging, poor installation, prolonged UV exposure, or microbial growth (like moss or lichen on shingles). This can lead to curling, drying out, or pulling away from flashing, ultimately resulting in cracks or splits that expose your building to moisture.

PEST DAMAGE

When pests decide to inhabit your roof or attic, they can significantly damage shingles as they gain entry. If the situation escalates, some homeowners may find themselves seeking insurance coverage for roof replacement once they realize the extent of the damage.

BALD PATCHES

Loose granules from asphalt shingles leave your roof exposed to the elements, as these granules are designed to protect against heat. Over time, they can wear away, creating bald patches. Once the granules are lost, these areas compromise the shingles' effectiveness, reducing your roof's overall performance. Bald patches not only look unsightly but also increase vulnerability to weather damage.

WHY CHOOSE NORTH EASTERN ROOFING?

At North Eastern Roofing, we bring years of expertise in the roofing field. We provide a wide range of roofing services, including repairs, replacements, and installations. We also offer free estimates, so you can understand the costs before making a decision. Our team exclusively uses high-quality materials, ensuring your roof is in capable hands.

TRUST NORTH EASTERN ROOFING FOR ALL YOUR ROOFING NEEDS

For over one decade, North Eastern Roofing has been committed to honing our craft and delivering comprehensive roof maintenance, repair, and installation services. We proudly serve Auburn and the surrounding areas. If you have questions about our services or wish to schedule a free quote, please reach out to us today. We look forward to assisting you!