Common Roof Problems
If you understand which roof problems are more common, and what to look for, it is a good idea to put together a roof inspection checklist that will help you prevent minor issues from developing into major headaches. You'll also be able to budget appropriately for roof inspection, repairs, and replacement. If you choose to hire a professional for a commercial or residential roof inspection, having a basic idea of these roof problems can offer the insights needed to make the right choice when it comes to fixing it.
Sloppy installation sounds harmless enough, but if a roof has been poorly secured, it can lead to an avalanche of problems that worsen with time. Ultimately, improper installation will shorten a roof's lifespan and it can be avoided by hiring a competent roofing contractor. A contractor would be able to tell you if your roof has been sloppily installed.
Leaks and moisture are triggered by precipitation such as rain, snow, hail, and ice. If an area of a roof's exterior has been compromised , moisture will attack the structure, which can cause leaks, and it might also lead to mold growth. If there is wood present in the structure of your roof, moisture can cause the wood to rot.
Standing water is often caused by a buildup of dirt or debris in drains. Standing water can place pressure on your roof, and it might eventually cause sagging.
Punctures can be created when new equipment, such as a solar installation, is mounted on the roof. This damage can be caused by the traffic that takes place as the equipment is being mounted. It's important to inspect the roof after equipment installation to ensure that no punctures have occurred. Also, the sealant around roof-mounted equipment such as HVAC units may weaken over time, and can may cause punctures.
Poorly installed flashing can compromise the integrity of the entire roof. Flashing is the term used to describe the material that seals parts of your roof that have been penetrated to install things such as vent pipes, chimneys, and sky lights. When flashing isn't properly mounted, it can cause open seams and reduce a roof's ability to resist punctures.
Birds, animals, or insects might choose to make their home on the roof. If their presence is observed, it's best to take steps to relocate them before they can create a lot of damage.
Tree limbs that overlook or make contact with your roof can cause problems. A tree limb that constantly rubs on your roof can destroy the roofing material's protective top layer. A tree limb that overlooks your roof can fall if there is rain or high wind, causing punctures or leaks.
Shrinkage is a term used to describe what happens when the membrane beneath tiles or shingles contracts. It is often caused by extreme heat or cold, and it can cause cracks in the upper layer of your roofing.
Blistering is an issue that is commonly seen in asphalt shingles and it can be caused by moisture that gets trapped in the shingles during the manufacturing process. Blistering can also be triggered by intense heat and, once the blister pops, it can cause leaks and damage to your roof.
Lack of regular maintenance is a problem that can afflict all roofs, but it can be especially damaging in commercial buildings. The larger and more complicated a roof's layout is, the more subject it is to wear and damage. Commercial roofing is often used to house vital components such as air flow systems. If these components are damaged in any way, they can impact the comfort of those within the building. Also, these can be heavy, and place a great burden on the roof.
All roofing should be regularly inspected to make sure its integrity is sound, but, with commercial roofing, regular inspections by a qualified roofing inspector are absolutely essential. In many cases, it takes a trained professional to identify problems that have a impact on the health of a commercial building's roof.