Some roofing problems are immediately apparent, such as when a storm blows shingles completely off the roof. Others, however, are not as easy to identify. Roofs are constantly exposed to the elements, and the changing seasons bring new challenges for this essential part of the home.
For example, in spring and early summer, constant rain raises the chances of experiencing a roof leak. Winters in Northern Virginia can be surprisingly harsh, with freezing temperatures and strong winds that can cause a lot of damage to roofs.
A roof replacement can be an expensive endeavor, and a damaged roof may also compromise the structure of your home and its inhabitants. Therefore, regular roof inspections from qualified roofing contractors can play a valuable role in protecting your home. It is also helpful to be familiar with the types of roofing problems that homes in the area often experience.
1. Leaks
Roofs are vulnerable to leaking, particularly as they get older. There are also lots of ways a leak can develop, whether water gets in and leaks past the roofing through the hole of a popped nail or damaged flashing is to blame. In some cases, leaks may be so small that they are difficult to detect. For leaks that are readily apparent, it is worth noting that the place in the home where the leak is detected is not always close to the source of the leak.
Winter weather has a way of exacerbating leaks of all sizes. In addition, the excess snow and freezing temperatures can cause new leaks to develop.
Regular roof inspections and maintenance are the best ways to ensure your roof is free of leaks and that your home will be prepared for winter weather. If you do find water leaking into the home, it is important to call a roofing contractor immediately to find the source and determine the best course of action.
2. Pests
When the temperatures drop, insects and other types of creatures might seek warmer shelter and protection from the elements in your attic. This may not seem like a major problem initially, but the weight of animals can compromise the roof over time.
If you are experiencing an insect infestation in your attic or roof, it is best to get in touch with exterminators, while local wildlife experts should be the first port of call for animal infestations in the attic.
3. Condensation
Many Northern Virginia homes experience condensation during winter. Our variable weather means there will often be days when warm air inside the home comes in contact with cold surfaces from outside. Although condensation may seem harmless, if it persists, it could cause mold and mildew to develop, which places the structure of the roof in danger.
The best way to avoid the problems associated with condensation is ensuring that your roof has adequate insulation as well as appropriate ventilation.
4. Blow-Off Damage
High winds can cause significant harm by blowing roofing completely off the top of the home. This type of damage may be found in just one section of the roof, or it may impact a full side of the roof after exposure to particularly high winds. Roof sheathing and roofing felt might also be blown away by severe winds.
There is little that homeowners can do to prevent this from occurring. Professionally installed roofs will be able to withstand the elements to a degree, but severe storms still pose a risk. Roofing contractors can install new roofing in the damaged sections and ensure that the rest of the roof is properly reinforced to provide additional protection during storms that arise in the future.
5. Buildups Of Ice
Following a heavy snowfall, ice can form on rooftops and create ice dams. Eventually, these ice dams will melt when they come into contact with surfaces that are warmed from within the home. This can cause a range of problems, including placing weight on the gutters and the roof, preventing water from draining efficiently, and endangering the ventilation in the roof and attic.
Buildups of ice on the roof should always be addressed swiftly to minimize the potential damage.
6. Damaged Shingles
Whether they are made of wood or asphalt, roof shingles wear out over time. They are also susceptible to damage from impact, wind or even foot traffic. In addition, older shingles may curl or become brittle.
In some cases, it may be possible to repair damaged roof shingles. However, sometimes a full replacement is necessary. Professional roofers can examine your roof and identify the best way forward depending on the material of the shingles and the extent of the damage.
Reach Out To Adelphia Exteriors
Ensure your roof is prepared for every season with help from the experts at Adelphia Exteriors. Reach out today to learn more about Adelphia’s roof replacement and repair services or to request a free roof evaluation.