How do you know when it is time to replace your roof instead of just
repairing it? Below you will find common roofing issues and how to
handle them. A roof should last upwards of twenty years with proper
care and maintenance.
Algae: Algae is a nuisance. It will
discolor your shingle roof making it look dirty. Often times people
mistake algae for dirt or tree droppings. Algae often occur in the
southeast where temperatures are warm and humid. It is best to purchase
algae-resistant shingles to prevent issues from arising. The good thing
to note is that an alga does not cause the service life of your shingle
to decrease however it is an eye sore.
To get rid of algae it is best to hire a professional roofing contractor
to treat the issue. Using a gentle solution they will work to decrease
the discoloration of the roofing while taking special care to not
loosen or remove the granules covering the shingles.
Flashing:
Flashing on a roof can become damaged from improper installation or
settling of the structure. If you find this is the case with your roofs
flashing it is good to know that this can be repaired. The roof does
not need to be replaced. The flashing can be removed and replaced only
needing to repair the flashing and asphalt shingles that had become damaged.
Buckling:
Roof buckling is a common issue with roofing. It can be caused because
of several different issues such as improperly laid felt, poor roofing
ventilation or a wrinkled underlayment. The process to fix the buckle
is a bit more complex than fixing algae or flashing.
In order to correct the issue with your roof buckling it is best to call in a professional roofing contractor.
You will need to allow the moisture that has built up in the roofing to
escape and return to the proper moisture level. This should allow the
roof to lay flat again. Next the shingles and felt where the wrinkle
has occurred will need to be cut out and replaced adding extra roof
ventilation as well. Roofing contractors will be able to properly vent the attic if it is not adequately done so to begin with.
Ceiling
Spots: When a leak occurs in your roof you can get occurrences of
ceiling spots. This is a roof repair issue in most cases although if
the issue has gone unnoticed for some time you could be looking at
issues with mold and mildew along with the ceiling spots. If enough
damage has been done and several spots of water entering have been
noticed a new roof may be in order.
A professional will come in
and determine if there is a leak in the attic, they will check the
chimney and flashing for cracks, will look for a travel source for the
leak from the original spot and will check the roof for shingle damage.
These
are just a few issues that can occur with your roof. Other things to
keep an eye out for are missing shingles. If a shingle is missing the
area underneath is not protected. Be sure to have this fixed ASAP. Roof
blistering can occur when too much moisture is allowed to build up
within the shingle area. Missing granules can occur as the shingles
age. If you find many shingles are becoming bare or the granules
thinning it may be time for a new roof. Rotting as well is an issue
that can lead to a new roof. Consult a professional roofing contractor
if you suspect any issue with your roofing material.
