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Your roof can last for several years. However, there are many things that can damage your roof and shorten its lifespan. That is why it is important to have your roof inspected for damage on a regular basis. Roof repair experts can help inspect any roof whether for a commercial business or your home and then provide a qualified estimate on any repairs or let you know if you need to have the roof completely replaced.

 

A well-maintained roof, constructed with high-quality materials, should last between 20-30 years. There are several ways roof damage can occur, with the weather being one of the biggest culprits. A roof with damage can make it harder for you to sell your home.

 

Let’s go over this article and give you some overview of the things that can eventually damage your roof in the long run.

 

Wind

 

The wind is one of the top causes of roof damage. Strong winds can lift up your shingles. This will leave the other areas of your roof exposed. Inspect your yard for shingles after a windy day. If you see any shingles on the ground, then you will need to call a professional roofing company. Especially in Arizona during monsoon season or when we have a haboob your roof can get damaged from these strong weather conditions.

 

Critters

 

Bats, birds, raccoons, squirrels, and mice may nest on your roof. They can also cause serious damage to your roof. They can tear away the shingles. Additionally, critters can chew through the walls of your home. Not only can this cause serious damage to your roof, but it can also spread diseases. You should have a monthly or bi-monthly pest control company in making sure your roof is protected from all types of pests.

 

Debris

 

Debris includes things such as twigs, pine needles, leaves, and branches. It can cause moisture to accumulate on your roof. This moisture can cause your roof to rot. It can also cause the shingles to deteriorate. If you have trees that are close to or hang over your roof they can cause damage over time. 

 

Ice and Snow

 

Ice can form anytime that the temperature drops below freezing. The ice can cause serious damage to your shingles. Once it melts, the moisture will damage the roof. Snow can also damage your roof when it melts and it can turn into water damage.

 

Gutters and Downspouts

 

Gutters and downspouts are designed to catch rainwater and keep it away from the home. However, if the gutters and downspouts are not working properly, then the water will not seep into the roof and cause it to rot.

 

Ultraviolet Rays

 

Ultraviolet rays are also known as UV rays. They come from the sun. The UV rays can cause your roof to dry out and rot. This is damage that you may not notice.

 

Attic Condensation

 

When your roof is suffering from winter build-up, especially ice dams, there is a good chance that, just below the roof, your attic ceiling will have excessive condensation. Moisture build-up is no minor matter since this can lead to wood rot and mold. Again, proper ventilation is the answer. However, in this case, it is crucial to plug any leaks in the insulation on the attic floor where moist air from below might enter. Furthermore, appliances, plumbing, dehumidifiers, and other devices can cause excess moisture build-up if malfunction.

 

Heavy Rooftop Snow Loads

 

Different roofs are designed to handle different weight loads, and if too much ice and snow accumulate on top of your house, the risk of roof collapse is very real. Wet snow is especially heavy, but large drifts of even lighter snow can exert significant pressures. Sometimes, poor roof drainage and/or poor construction can make the situation worse and lead to an over-stressed roof that begins to creak, leak, and cause ceiling sagging. This is a serious situation, so you should not delay in calling in the professionals when you see or hear the tell-tale signs.

 

Besides causing new problems, snow load and the freeze/thaw cycle can further loosen already unsecured roof flashing, dislodge shaky shingles, and pry open gutter seams where caulk has already broken. For this reason, it is a good idea to have a roof inspection and maintenance job done before the winter season begins.

 

These listed problems can affect every homeowner’s roof during the winter. It would greatly benefit you to take things right immediately slowly by slowly. Taking time to care for your roof just before, during, and immediately following the harsh treatment it receives in the cold season will protect your investment in your home by preventing severe winter roof damage, thereby delaying the need for a new roof, minimizing roof repairs, and avoiding costly leaks.