Keeping your roof in tip top shape is usually pretty easy. After all, the roof is one of those home components which may last for a few decades or even longer. There are threats that can cause damage on your roof however. Learning more about roof damage and how you can prevent it can help ensure your roof will last a long time. Although some roof damage in Plymouth Michigan simply can’t be avoided, knowing the cause and what should be done if your roof is damaged can help to reduce damages and costs of repair. Here are some of the common causes for roof damage:
Common Causes of Roof Damage in Plymouth Michigan and Tips to Avoid Them
Much of the damage caused to roofing is more than one factor. In fact, storms and weather can affect different roofing in different ways. For instance, a roof that is just installed will be more susceptible to damage from weather than one that was installed 15 years ago. Other factors will also play a part in the damages that may be caused including the type of roofing material that is installed on the roof. With that being said, here are some of the common reasons you might find roof damage on your home:
Damage From Hail Storms
A huge threat to almost any roofing material is hail. The larger the hail stones are the more likely it is to damage your roof. It may not be immediately apparent but when hail strikes the roof it can puncture the roofing materials. This leaves a small hole in the roofing surface where water can get in. One of the big problems with hail as well is that it usually affects the entire roof. So if you have hail damage on your roof, odds are that you’ll need a completely new roof installed on your home.
Damage From High Winds
Another one of the threats from Mother Nature is wind damage. Wind can play a huge role in roof damage because it is usually what breaks shingles from the roofing surface. As the wind gets under the roofing shingle edge it can lift it from the roof and bend it backwards usually breaking the shingle and exposing the roofing decking or underlayment. You may notice pieces of shingles in you yard if this has happened on your home. If so, be sure to get it inspected as soon as possible. Wind can also break branches from trees which can fall and impact the roofing surface which may also cause damage. Typically, a roof repair can solve minor damage from wind broken shingles or small branches falling onto the roof.
Damage From Wildlife
One problem that many people don’t consider is damage to the roof from wildlife. Those cute little squirrels that scurry about can sometimes damage the roofing. Not only that but if birds or other animals start to build nests in the ventilation for the roof they can cut off air flow which will cause your roof to age prematurely. If it’s not dealt with, it may lead to a ventilation problem in your attic which can cause problems.
Damage Because of an Aging Roof
Over time the roofing materials start to break down. For asphalt shingle roofing this breaking down usually happens about the same time the warranty expires. So if you have 15 year shingles on your home and it’s been about that long, you may start seeing damage because of the age. The roofing will be much more suceptible to damage from wind, hail, and weather. Although roof repairs may be done on an aging roof, it’s usually a good idea to have the roof replaced once it’s over the time of the original warranty for the roof.
Not Getting Regular Roof Inspections on your Roof
While no one really thinks about their roofs until there is a problem, there are some things that should be done to keep your roof in good shape. One thing that can really help stop problems before they become roof leaks is to get a roof inspection on the roof. A roof inspection can locate small potential problems and have them repaired before any damage is done to the home. Of course you’ll need to hire a professional roofing contractor such as Home Pros Plymouth to inspect the roof and make any repairs. Call them today at 734-548-9911 to set up an appointment to have your home’s roof inspected.
