Have you noticed any leaks popping up on your roof lately or seen some worn spots that have you concerned? You’re not alone – roofs take a daily beating from harsh weather, gravity, and age. As expert roofing contractors serving clients throughout Metro DC, we often help homeowners identify and address various types of roof damage before it’s too late.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common forms of wear and tear we see in residential and commercial roofs. Recognizing warning signs early allows you to address problems promptly before more extensive repairs are needed. So read on to boost your roofing IQ!
Shingle Crackling and Curling
If asphalt shingles are starting to crack, curl up at the edges, or show signs of granule loss, it’s a tell-tale symptom they’ve exceeded their lifespan and need replacing. Shingles are only warranted to last 15-25 years on average before degradation sets in. Factors like hail, high winds, or intense sun accelerate the aging process. Thankfully, re-roofing shingle rooftops with C&M Roofing and Construction’s premium 50-year malar products extends the life and curb appeal of your home for decades.
Missing/Blown-Off Shingles
Heavy rainstorms or windy conditions can sometimes pry loose individual asphalt shingles or even small patches. While this may not seem critical, it leaves areas vulnerable to leaks if not addressed. These vacated spots must be re-shingled promptly to prevent further damage. High wind zones may even require additional protective underlayment. Our talented installation crews can repair blown shingles efficiently before problems spread.
Blistering, Buckling and Delamination
Over time, built-up roof membranes can deteriorate in a few distinct ways. Blistering usually occurs due to moisture trapped between layers, which can allow leaks to develop. Buckling resembles a popped bubble that ruins waterproof integrity if not dealt with. Delamination separates the roof material into layers exposed to the elements. These deteriorating built-up roof conditions require either patching works or complete re-roofing by C&M’s licensed contractors ASAP.
Sagging and Ponding
When rainwater pools inches deep on a roof instead of flowing off evenly, it creates an issue called ponding. This excess weight stresses the roof structure and saturates underlayment materials over time. Gravity also pulls flat or low-sloped roofs downward in a sagging effect if not specially reinforced during installation. Our experts evaluate roof drainage capabilities to design permanent ponding solutions fitting any budget.
Corroded Fasteners and Flashing
The steel components anchoring roofing materials like shingles or metal roofing panels will inevitably rust when exposed to outdoor elements for many years. Missing or broken fasteners compromise a roof’s wind resistance and moisture barrier. Likewise, cracking or crumbling flashing fails to direct water away properly. Evaluating and replacing outdated fasteners and flashings with quality non-corrosive alternatives restores roofs to like-new performance.
Moss and Biological Growth
Roof surfaces shaded by nearby trees are prime breeding grounds for moss, algae, and other unwelcome greenery. While it may look aesthetically unappealing, biological growth also facilitates leaks by obstructing material seams. Cleaning these rooftops demands both chemical treatment and mechanical removal techniques. Neglecting the problem allows vegetation to spread and accelerate further damage over wet seasons.
Environmental Factors
Beyond typical wear and tear, some roofs sustain direct damage from extreme weather events or environmental conditions specific to the area. Hailstorms may pock a roof resembling Swiss cheese with indentations that cannot be patched. High winds could rip off sections requiring replacement. Coastal locations see more rapid deterioration from corrosive salt air exposure too. Comprehensive roof evaluations help determine when storm impacts warrant full roof system replacement.
Human-Caused Hazards
Contractors working on adjacent construction zones occasionally cause accidental roof damage moving equipment or materials carelessly. Branch debris left behind tree trimming can puncture shingles if not swept clear. And roof-top maintenance tasks like replacing a satellite dish antenna sometimes omit proper flashings that down the line invite leaks. Always vet service providers’ credentials and inspect work thoroughly afterwards.
Being aware of different roof damage types and how C&M Roofing and Construction can address them helps extend your roof’s service life and head off costly repairs in the long run. We recommend annual inspections to catch small problems before they become major replacements. Contact us today to schedule yours and discuss options for roof repair and preventative maintenance customized to your home or building’s needs.
