Roofers have a tough job. They work at heights, carrying heavy shingles and nailing them to the roof's surface. In addition to working hard, roofers are also very knowledgeable. They can recommend the best roofing material to fit your budget and preferences, and they can make repairs, as needed, to ensure your roof continues to keep your home safe. There's a lot to learn about roofing. We are not professionals, but we consider ourselves to be well-informed, and we share the information we know on this website. As you read, you will learn more about roofing as a profession, and you may also pick up some roofing tips you can use on your own home.
Repeated roof repairs, particularly on a shingle roof that should not be at the end of its life, can be both frustrating and expensive. The following are four reasons why you may be having issues with your roof.
1. Moss Growth
Moss on a roof can be pretty, but it can also shorten shingle life. The moss doesn't damage a roof by penetrating the shingles, as moss had no roots. Instead, the issues are caused by the moisture the moss traps against the shingles. This moisture can cause the shingles to degrade more quickly. Moss can also work its way under a shingle, lifting it up and causing it to warp or crack. Cleaning the roof frequently and installing zinc strips to kill moss can solve the problem.
2. Tree Issues
Overhanging trees can cause damage in two ways. The most obvious is by dropping branches on the roof, which can lead to holes in the shingles or damage like cracks and worn granule layers. The second way trees cause damage is by reducing airflow so that moisture collects on the roof. This problem can be made worse if a lot of leaf litter collects on the roof, further leading to moist conditions. Trim back trees so they don't pose a hazard to the shingles.
3. Hail Damage
Hail damage can be sneaky. Often, small hailstones don't leave behind obvious damage like holes or dents on a shingle. Instead, the damage is almost impossible to see right away. The hail strikes loosen and knock off the protective granule coating on the shingles, which reduces their life and makes leaks more likely. You can sometimes spot granule damage by looking at the shingles for shiny spots or checking your gutters for heavy gravel buildup. Replacing the damaged shingles is the only suitable fix.
4. Re-Roofing Woes
Re-roofing is when new shingles are installed over the old, instead of first removing the old shingles. This can save money at installation but lead to a shorter roof lifespan. If your last new roof was installed over the old shingles, the new shingles may not last as long. Rot and decay from the old shingles can sometimes affect the new shingles and cause them to fail sooner than they would if they were installed over fresh decking and underlayment.
Contact a roofing contractor in your area for help with solving these problems for good.