3 decades of roof installations have taught us one very important thing….that is, Spring is brutal on roofs.
Here are the common issues we see every year that cause roofs to deteriorate at an alarming rate:
Roof Leaks
Roof leaks are one of the most common roofing problems that occur in springtime. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including heavy rains, melting snow, and ice dams. To prevent roof leaks, it’s important to have your roof inspected regularly and repair any damage as soon as possible to prevent roof leaks.
It is NJ code to install Ice and Water shield along the eaves, valleys and rakes of your home.
Algae Growth
As the weather warms up, you may notice some green growth on your roof. This is algae, and it can cause problems for your roof if left unchecked. Algae feeds on roofing materials, causing them to break down and deteriorate. It can also lead to roof leaks and other damage. To prevent algae from damaging your roof, have it cleaned regularly. You should also make sure your gutters are clear of debris so that water can flow freely and not pool on your roof, leading to the growth of algae and moss.
Clogged Gutters
Another spring roofing concern that arises is clogged gutters. Clogged gutters can result in roof leaks, as they prevent water from properly draining off the roof. Additionally, excess moisture can lead to algae growth on your roof, which can cause damage and shorten the lifespan of your roof.
To avoid these problems, it is important to regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure they are clear of debris. You may also want to consider installing gutter guards to help prevent leaves and other debris from clogging your gutters in the first place.
Damaged Shingles
Roofs are supposed to withstand strong winds, and in general, whatever you throw at them. However, they will undergo wear and tear, especially after the winter. This will significantly lower their strength, and at times, the roof’s shingles will warp. You’ll be able to tell when your roof shingles need to be replaced, as the edges will have curled upward.
When dealing with damaged shingles, you can either replace each shingle or the whole roof (also known as reroofing). Keep in mind that if you replace single shingles, your roof will look like patchwork as the colors of the shingles aren’t consistent throughout.
Pest Infestation
Critters such as raccoons and birds will want to seek shelter on your roof in the winter as it’s warm. Unfortunately, these cute critters aren’t good for your roof, as they can wreak havoc on eaves, shingles, and so on. If you notice a gap in your roof’s shingles or siding, that’s a sign that critters have moved in.
If you’re renting out your single-family home, tell your tenants to notify you if they spot pests on the property, or if they notice strange noises from the roof. The moment your tenant tells you about pest problems, be sure to remove the pests from your real estate investment immediately. Otherwise, the pest problems will get worse.
Chimney Damage
If your property is particularly old, it likely has cracks that will allow water to seep in. As the weather starts to warm, it will melt the ice, and allow water to enter your chimney via these crevices. And when the temperature drops, the water can turn into ice again, causing the bricks to expand. Eventually, the chimney may crumble.
For that reason, it’s important to conduct chimney maintenance. A professional roofer can apply a special sealant to block the bricks from water.
Moisture and Mold Growth
Mold isn’t a specific roof issue, but rather the result of unresolved roof issues. Your roof will only be the cause of mold if you don’t nip moisture problems in the bud as soon as possible. The moment moisture accumulates on the roof, it can cause mold and mildew. Not only will this result in rot, but will also be harmful to you or your tenant’s health.
Properly maintaining your roof will help in prolonging the life of both the roof shingles and underlying roof components.
Please schedule your roof inspection today with GenSun Roofing Project Consultant