The roof is the most crucial part of your home. It’s the very first line of defense from external elements, bearing the brunt of the weather’s adverse effects. It’s also one of the main components of your home’s curb appeal—which is actually more crucial for your home’s value than you might realize! As such, it’s important to call for a roofer near you to repair it as soon as you find any signs of wear and tear on it.
However, as important as it might be, it’s often difficult to notice any damage on it until it’s too late. To ensure that you avoid any complications, it’s best to become more knowledgeable about the factors that pose a risk against your roofing solution. Here are six things that you might not know are ruining your roof from the outside:
1. Rain and Snow
Moisture is your roof’s number one enemy. If your roof has been properly installed and it’s been in good condition, then the average rainfall should not do much damage to your roof. However, if rain or melted snow can’t drain off your roof, that’s where your problems begin!
Standing water will erode any type of roofing material. Any trapped moisture that seeps into your roof can damage your home’s entire structure—so you should take action quickly.
2. Clogged Gutters
If your gutters are clogged, they will not be able to drain water away from your roof and your home’s siding.
Pooled water will slowly cause rot and molds. If your gutters are filled with branches and leaves, a mold infestation may begin—quadrupling all the problems you have in a short amount of time.
3. Trees
Large trees are great to have around your home because they provide shade and a cool microclimate, making it wonderful to step outside. However, if left to overgrow, a particularly large branch falling onto your roof can puncture shingles and create a path for water to enter your home. Aside from that, fallen leaves can clog your gutters and trap moisture on your roof. Some trees may even drip sap and resin onto your roof, softening asphalt and blistering shingles.
Fortunately, regular trimming and leaf removal will go a long way in protecting your roof from tree damage. If you aren’t very familiar with the trees around your home, you can get advice from a qualified arborist.
4. Algae Growth
Humidity, warmth, and poor quality shingles can lead to the growth of algae on your roof. Blue-green algae are a common infection across roofs in the United States. This growth is difficult to control, discoloring your shingles and causing rot on your roofing materials.
You can prevent algae growth by using algae-resistant shingles.
5. Installation Errors
Installation errors can heavily impact the quality of your roof.
For example, improper installation can lead to broken roof flashing. Flashing is installed under shingles to ensure that moisture does not get trapped inside the roof. Less experienced roofers may make mistakes during installation, causing leaks into your home’s interior.
6. Human Error
Many people aren’t aware that merely stepping on a roof can cause shingles to break. If you need to walk on your roof for any reason, you should wear proper shoes and distribute your weight evenly. Or better yet, call in professional roof contractors to do the work instead!
Even simple things, like hanging Christmas lights or nailing something on your roof, can cause damage to your shingles and gutters. Minor nicks and dents to your roofing material can escalate quickly, especially in the presence of moisture.
Conclusion
Roofs are meant to protect the interior of your home from the ravages of weather. If your roof has been installed correctly and your gutters are adequately maintained, no amount of heavy rain or melted snow can damage your roof. To avoid all the things that can ruin your roof, call in experienced roofing contractors to perform thorough checking and maintenance.
Are you in need of roof repair in Charlotte, NC? Charlotte Roofing can help protect your roof from its greatest enemies. We are licensed, qualified, and certified Charlotte roofers. We are proud of our work and get great satisfaction from supporting the community in such a valuable way. Contact us today, and we’d be happy to help with any of your roofing needs!