However, as a consequence of the virtually non-stop battering by the elements, the roof is most likely to sustain a certain amount of damage over time, which is why it would be really great if you have roofing insurance. With all the hits that it takes on a regular basis, your roof is going to need it.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common roof problems that you will likely encounter and have to deal with promptly.
Leaks
A leak can be pretty common, considering the amount of rain, snow, and wind that batters the roof of your home periodically. Even if your roof material is of the best quality, it will eventually sustain cracks as time passes and lead to leaks that will not only let rainwater drip into your home but also trigger mold growth.
Holes and punctures
Whatever falls from the sky towards your house, it will be your roof that will be there to catch it. The problem is, some of these things can be big or heavy enough to puncture your roof and leave a hole through which rain, snow, and the rest of the elements can pass. Careless roofing contractors could also cause holes in your roof when they walk or accidentally drop their tools on it. Even woodpeckers can cause some damage to the eaves.
Shrinkage
When you have a flat roof, it’s likely covered by a synthetic rubber membrane called EPDM, which provides excellent protection against general weathering as well as UV rays and ozone. The problem with EPDM, however, is that it has the tendency to shrink. When shrinkage problems occur, the primary roof material also tends to crack and deteriorate, leading to leaks and other issues.
Pooled water
A flat roof is also more likely to have water pooling in certain spots. If left alone, a tiny amount of pooled water can become a pond in a short amount of time. With all that pooled water on your roof, it would only be a matter of time before it causes problems like water damage.
Tree damage
If there are trees anywhere near the structure of your house, then you can expect tree limbs to fall onto your roof. Small branches might not do much damage, but bigger and heavier limbs can.
The branches of a tree can also rub against your roof, scratch the surface, and damage the top layer.
Small animals
Birds like to build nests on roofs, especially in the rain gutters or any spot near it. Small animals and insects also like taking refuge up there. It shouldn’t be a problem if they’re not causing any damage. Birds, for instance, have highly-acidic droppings, which could damage roofing materials. Mice, rats, squirrels, and other rodents that love gnawing at things can also cause damage. Then there’s the small but terrible termite, which can inflict serious damage on any roof.
Missing or broken shingles
Whenever severe weather conditions hit, there’s always the possibility that the shingles on your roof may go missing. Sometimes, they just suffer straight-up damage like curling, cracking, and blistering. When shingles are missing or broken, the underlying wood will become more prone to rotting and other forms of damage.
Snow and ice damage
Snow and ice can be heavy enough to inflict a certain amount of strain on your roof. And when they melt, the water could seep underneath the shingles, which could be a problem if it freezes again. All that water will expand and push up or even lift the shingles, which can only create gaps that will let in more snow, ice, and water.
Poor or defective installation
Considering the amount of stress that a roof is meant to go through for its entire existence, only skilled and experienced roofing contractors must install it. Because if non-professionals installed your roof, the chance that the installation will be inferior or defective is quite high. With a poorly-installed roof, you are more likely to experience more problems with it.
So whenever you decide to replace your roof, always get professional roofing contractors to do it for you. Better yet, make sure your roof is installed by professionals with the right contractors insurance coverage. With people protected by roofers insurance working on one of the most important parts of your home, you’ll be free from liability for any personal injury or property damage that may occur while they’re doing their job.
About the Author
Rachel Porter is the content specialist for Custom Contractors Insurance, LLC, an Arizona roofing and contractors insurance company. When not writing, she enjoys reading and mountain biking with her friends.
