Roofing problems are never fun. They seem to happen at the most inappropriate times and can put a damper on your day. While your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, it often takes a beating from the weather.
It’s crucial to be aware of the different roofing problems that can crop up. In this blog post by Energy Advantage Roofing and Solar, we’ll discuss the leading causes of roofing problems! We’ll give you some tips on what to do if you notice signs of an issue. Stay safe – and dry – by keeping an eye on your roof!
1. Rain, Hail & High Winds
High winds, heavy rain, & hail can all cause significant damage to your roofing materials, resulting in expensive repairs or complete replacement.
Rain and hail can loosen or crack shingles, causing leaks that can lead to water damage. They also damage gutters and downspouts, making it difficult for water to drain correctly.
And while there’s no way to protect your roof from the elements completely, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of damage.
- One way to do this is to install hurricane straps to help secure your roof in high winds.
- Using high-quality materials and installing proper flashings and drains can help to reduce the chances of water infiltration.
2. Algae Bloom
Your roof may be spotted by an algae bloom in the summer. Blue-green algae will thrive in moist and warm weather conditions. The growth of this roof algae has now been observed on roofs in Canada and the United States.
While the algae are not damaging your roof, it can be unsightly!
- One way to get rid of it is to clean your roof with a 50/50 bleach and water solution. You can apply this with a pump-up garden sprayer. Rinse the area afterward with plain water from a hose to avoid damaging your shingles.
- If you’re not keen on using bleach, eco-friendly solutions are available that use enzymes to eat away at the algae.
- You can prevent roof algae’s growth by ensuring your gutters are clean and debris-free.
3. UV Rays
While the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays don’t cause direct damage to most types of roofing materials, they can degrade asphalt-based products such as shingles and built-up roofs. This process is called photooxidation, and it causes the asphalt to become brittle and eventually crumble.
UV rays can also cause the protective granules on shingles to break down, which accelerates the deterioration process.
To minimize sunlight damage:
- Ensure that it is adequately ventilated and that there is an adequate layer of insulation between the sun and your roofing materials.
- You may also consider installing a UV-resistant barrier on top of your roof.
Conclusion
If you notice any signs of damage to your roof, contact a professional roofing contractor for an inspection and repair as soon as possible. Waiting to address the problem can result in further damage and increased repair costs.
Energy Advantage Roofing and Solar is your best professional roofing contractor in Phoenix, Arizona – we assess your particular needs and provide the ideal solution!
