Improperly Installed Flashing and Other Materials
When installed properly, roof flashing, or drip edge, around your roofline helps to keep water from running underneath your shingles. Metal roof flashing may also run around your windows, chimneys, and vents to keep water leaks at bay. When flashing does not firmly adhere to its mounting surface, water can flow underneath the roofing materials. This improper installment can cause your roofing materials to rot.
- Flashing Around Chimneys - Caulking is often used in conjunction with step flashing around chimneys. Caulk has a relatively short lifespan, so it will need to be inspected frequently.
- Flashing Around Pipes - The flashing around your pipes, sometimes referred to as a roof boot, usually last around 15 years if installed correctly. You should periodically check your roofing flashing, and look for other materials that seem out of place or improperly installed to prevent roof leaks and other roofing problems. To repair this issue, your roofer will reinstall the flashing or other roofing materials using industry-standard best practices.
Shingle or Tile Replacement
There are many different types of shingles and tiles used on residential roofs. Shingles and tiles can suffer damage over time from natural elements like natural disasters and overexposure to sun, and physical elements like fallen tree branches. You will likely experience one or more of the following shingle repairs:
- Granule Loss - Over time, the shingles and tiles can start to deteriorate and lose pieces or granules, leaving the lower surfaces exposed.
- Blistering - Excessive heat from poorly ventilated and over-heated roofs can cause shingles to blister.
- Splitting - Caused by temperatures soaring then dropping. The material expands and contracts which causes tearing.
- Shrinkage - Shingles can shrink from normal aging and weathering of the asphalt materials.
- Lifted Shingles - If shingles shrink or blister, this can cause the edges of your shingles to lift, allowing water to seep underneath.
- Shingles in Valleys - Since valleys are a major area for water to flow off the roof, the granules on the shingles in these areas can wear down much quicker.
- Broken Shingles - Broken shingles usually occur when older shingles experience severe wind damage.
Without prompt attention, these shingle issues can quickly escalate as water runs beneath the adjacent shingles or tiles. As long as the rest of your roof is in good shape, your roofing expert will likely be able to replace a small portion of the shingles to rectify this problem.
Gutter Maintenance and Repair
Your gutters do a lot for your roof and home. They quickly eliminate water accumulation from your roofline and send it flowing down the drain and away from your home. Most issues with gutter occur because they are not regularly cleaned and lack basic maintenance. The leaves, branches, and other debris that builds up in your gutters can cause them to overflow, and even detach from your roof. This can also cause the fascia board to deteriorate.
To prevent these issues, you must have your gutters cleaned on at least a quarterly basis. Commit to inspecting your gutters for damage, and scheduling gutter repairs to fix any problems you find with help from your local roofing contractor.
Ponding Water
Flat residential roofs can develop ponding water on the surface for a variety of reasons, from sun damage and weathering to underlying structural issues and poorly installed drains. Ponding water is definitely a pressing concern that warrants a prompt solution. If you allow this issue to go without repairs, extensive damage to the roof membrane can occur, resulting in roof leaks.
A roofing professional can assess the ponding water and identify the cause to find the solution that will work best for you long term.
Leaks
Water leaks can cause extensive damage to your home if allowed to continue for any length of time. These leaks often occur as your roofing materials start to experience excessive wear or damage.
Depending on the cause of the leaks, you may be able to have the roof leak repair covered under your homeowner's insurance. As these problems can lie hidden from view, you will need help from your roofing pro to find the source of the leak and perform the needed repairs. You may be tempted to DIY fix a roof leak, but it is recommended to always trust a professional so that the root issue of the leak is solved instead.
Poor Ventilation
Poor roof ventilation can cause your entire roof to suffer severe damage as the underlying materials deteriorate. Areas with a wide variety of weather, like in most parts of North Carolina, are prone to this issue. The lack of ventilation can also result in high energy costs, exterior paint damage, and even leaks in the attic. Mold and mildew may start growing in your living space from the high heat and humidity levels.
Licensed roofing contractors will ensure that your roofing system is not only watertight but that it also allows the correct amount of airflow. If your roof does have poor ventilation, the number of roof vents you need to be repaired and installed will greatly influence your roof repair cost for this project.
Acquiring Professional Roof Repairs for These Common Issues
Resolving common roof repairs as they arise can help you prevent more severe roof repairs and replacements in the future. When you need help replacing roof shingles, or just an inspection to check the condition of your roof, you should always partner with a trusted roofing professional. From unexpected emergency repair services to gutter cleanings, professional roofing companies will help you maintain and upkeep your home.
At Pickard Roofing, we think Design. Craft. Renew. We are experienced in all types of roofing systems- and provide the right roofing design and selective craftsmanship for renewing our customer’s assets. We invite sustainable building customers to give us a call for your free evaluation. For over 90 years Pickard Roofing Company has installed countless metal, tile, slate, TPO, EPDM, and all types of shingle roofing in the Triangle. Our services include residential, commercial, custom architectural metal fabrication, and historical renovation.
