5 Common Causes of Roof Damages and What to Do

Are you worried about your roof’s health? With the high cost of roof repair and replacement, there’s every reason to be!

Information, they say, is power. Knowing the common risks your roof is prone to puts you in a position to prevent them and, hopefully, this will stop you from needing to contact a commercial roofing company in an emergency situation.

So without much ado, let’s find out the causes of these common roof damages and what you can do.

1. Clogged gutters

Clogged gutters are one of the greatest causes of roof damage, especially in areas with considerable vegetation. Your roof gutters are designed to transport rainwater away from your home so that it doesn’t fall along your walls.

Leaves, twigs, and other forms of debris can get on your roof and clog the gutter over time. The gutter can no longer channel rainwater away from your home when this happens. Rainwater accumulates on your roof, soaks up the shingles, and infiltrates your home. A leaking roof will leave you searching for the nearest Roofer in Boise or roofing company near you. Professional roofers like these can repair the damaged area and assess other spots on your roof that may need repair or reconstruction. In addition, this leak can result in a moist attic and a thriving ground for mould and mildew growth which will require interior work too.

But that’s not even all. Since water can no longer be directed from your home, it spills over the clogged gutter, dropping along the sides of your home and into your foundation. That may result in foundational cracks.

Protect your home and roof by clearing your gutters regularly, especially during spring and late fall.

2. Ice dams

Snow can seem a pleasant crystal, but it’s no friend to your roof. When snow accumulates on your roof, it may form ice dams along the edge of your roof, which prevents the snow from draining away. With nowhere to go, the snow melts on the roof, and the water gets into pore spaces.

Water expands while turning into ice. So when next the temperature dips, the water in your roof’s pores expands, further ripping those spaces open. This gives way for more water to come in, and your roof may start to leak.

If you notice moisture in your attic, your roof is probably leaking. And if it’s during winter, it could be a result of snow and ice roof damage. Get a licensed roofing contractor near you immediately to fix your roof and prevent further escalation.

It’s best to eliminate ice dams from your roof every morning to prevent this type of roof damage.

3. Overhanging branches

Hanging branches are another risk your roof is prone to. When dead, overhanging branches can drop on your roof and cause damage, especially when heavy. This can cause severe leaks. Snow can also weigh down on branches in winter and harm your roof.

It’s therefore important to trim nearby trees as soon as the branches start growing over your home.

4. Blistering

Adequate ventilation matters in your home. A poorly ventilated attic causes the roof to get too hot, leading to blisters. A qualified roof contractor can help install the right ventilation to protect your roof.

5. Neglect

Neglect is arguably the most common cause of roof damage. Failure to care for your roof will give room for issues to progress unchecked. Imagine neglecting your roof and ice dams form, the gutters get clogged, and overhanging branches get on it. That could be disastrous, and you don’t want that.

Bottom line

There are other causes of roof damage, but clogged gutters, ice dams, overhanging tree branches, and neglect are the most common. Ensure you pay due attention to your roof’s health, as that’s vital to the overall condition of your home.