12 Most Common Roof Issues You Need to Look Out For

Did you know that after moisture accumulates from a roof leak, mold growth can form 24-48 hours later? If you want to avoid a leaking roof and other roof problems, we can help.

Are you wondering what some common roof problems are? Not to worry! In this guide, we’ll go over common roof repairs.

Want to learn more? Keep reading.

1. Leaking Roofs

A standard roofing issue homeowners face is a leaking roof. Some people find cracked flashing or broken shingles. These issues can lead to water leakage.

Try to inspect the area near the chimney. Watch for any damaged shingles, because water can slip underneath the shingles. Examine your flashing points and the gutters.

You don’t want to delay. A leaking roof can lead to mold or mildew growth in your home. People in your household could get sick. If you have asthma, your condition could worsen.

Inside your home, look out for a discolored ceiling or damp walls. If you see these signs, you’ll want to hire a professional roofing professional.

2. Standing Water

When water forms little pools on the top of your roof, it can cause issues down the road.

With flat roofs, roofers try to create tapered areas across the surface. Water can run off the roof. The slopes will help prevent any water damage from standing water.

3. Holes or Punctures

Local wildlife can leave behind puncture marks, scrapes, and holes on a roof. See this video of a bear on a roof. If a contractor is walking across shingles, they can damage them, too, if they’re not careful. Woodpeckers can drill holes in the eaves.

Over the years, the damage will worsen and affect the underlying wood.

4. Roof Shrinkage

As roofing material shrinks, problems such as cracking and deterioration can occur. Flashing can also pull apart.

Shrinkage affects roofs that get covered with a synthetic rubber membrane called EPDM.

If you’re worried about shrinkage, consider calling in a professional. Ask the roofing professional to inspect your roof.

5. Blistering and Cracking

Roofs can develop blisters, ridges, and cracks over their lifetime. Built-up roofs get made with a few layers that cover a flat surface. A built-up roof will be more susceptible to blistering and cracking.

6. Ice and Snow Damage

Over time, ice and snow can affect a roof. Snow and ice melt, and water will seep below your shingles. If the water refreezes, you could have an issue.

The ice beneath your roof can push against the shingles and flashing, lifting them. More water or ice can enter in through the gaps.

One way to make sure the winter conditions don’t damage your roof is to conduct inspections. You can also complete regular maintenance.

By keeping up with maintenance and inspections, you can prevent snow-related issues. Ask the inspector if you need to complete a significant repair in a couple of months.

7. Bad Installation

If you work with an inexperienced roofer, you may end up spending more money. A lousy roof installation can cause long term issues. You may experience mold issues or need to replace your roof sooner than you anticipated.

8. Tree Damage

Do you have a lot of trees around your house? During a strong windstorm, a tree could crash into your roof and cause damage. Also, if branches rub your roof every day, they can wear the top layer down.

Make sure you trim your trees often. Watch out for tree limbs that end up resting on the top of your house. If you’re worried, you could look into calling an arborist to come and remove trees.

9. Broken or Clogged Gutters

If your gutters get broken or clogged, water will get backed up into your roofing system. Water can seep into your waves and cause rotting.

Prevent this damage by cleaning out your gutters. You’ll want to get rid of any broken parts or debris. You can also install screens on your gutter’s openings. This way, leaves, and twigs won’t get inside.

10. Poor Maintenance

Try to catch problems early so that you can fix your roof without a massive expanse. If you bypass routine maintenance, you could end up with an expensive repair.

Ignoring problematic areas could cost you. Stick to a regular maintenance schedule and call a roofing professional once a year. Ask them to inspect your roof and point out any problem areas.

11. Roof Flashing

Another common roofing issue you might face is damaged flashing. The function of flashing is to seal holes in the roof system where water could enter. Flashing helps remove leakage issues in these areas.

The material’s galvanized or aluminum steel depending on your roof.
You will find flashing around skylights, in the valleys, and around the chimney.

Oxidation and weather can cause flashing to deteriorate. Sometimes, flashing can loosen and fall away.

Most roofing professionals will cut and shape flashing from sheet metal. Many flashing pieces come formed and can get applied with roof cement.

12. Inspect Fascia on Your Roof

You can find the fascia, the front board, along your roofline or the roof trim. Fascia’s made of sheet metal or wooden boards.

Fascia will act as a layer between the elements of the outdoors and the edge of the roof. The front board can also protect the inside of your home from weather damage.

Moisture can cause problems with your fascia. Watch out for signs of damage or rot. If you notice any issues, make sure you call a professional right away. Learn more about how to maximize a roof’s lifespan.

Now You Know More About Common Roof Problems

We hope you found this guide on roof issues helpful. Take the time to perform preventative maintenance throughout the year. Make a list of things and go through them each month. This way, you can prevent common roof problems.

Keep browsing our helpful resources on home builds, maintenance, buying and selling real estate, and more.