Every house owner’s biggest and most expensive asset is their roof as it protects the house and residents from harsh weather conditions and keeps the interior free of damage. However, one tiny issue, leakage, or damage will not only cause a major financial loss but also degrade the property value. To prevent accidents and internal damages, it is necessary to keep an eye on your roof.

Here are seven of the most common roof problems that every house owner must oversee.

1. Cracks or Broken Seams

This is one of the most common roof issues that most buildings are exposed to. It is a sign of a weak roof structure or other common causes such as footprints by local wildlife or harsh weather conditions such as rainfall or hailstorms. With time, the wooden beam structure and support underneath the roof can weaken and cause cracks, broken seams, holes, or punctures in the shingles and roof structure. Since the damage can take up to a few years to build and be noticeable, you may not realize it until it becomes a major issue. The only way to keep your roof intact is to get it inspected from time to time. If you suspect any signs of damage, don’t hesitate to view these roof repair services to ensure your roof’s longevity and structural integrity. When dealing with the most common roof problems, understanding how to measure a roof accurately is crucial. Visit the roofing calculator to learn how to measure a roof effectively and address these issues with confidence.

2. Damage Caused by Overhanging Trees

If your house is surrounded by trees, the overhanging branches are likely to cause damage to your roof. It only takes a heavy gush of wind for a branch or limb to push against your roof shingles. Even if the roof is not exposed to sudden jerks by tree limbs, constant rubbing of tree branches against the roof structure can slowly cause damage over a few years. Furthermore, heavy snowfall can also cause damage in the internal roof structure. The accumulation of snow and ice on a roof can seep into the shingles and damage the flashing, thereby leaving gaps.

3. Water Leakage

You must tend to roof leaks and dripping water as soon as you notice it, especially if you live somewhere humid like Pittsburgh. Failing to do so can lead to major interior damage due to water leakage. Since roof leakages are a common problem in areas with high rainfall, it is necessary to read more about this issue and solve it at the earliest. Fixing water leakage issues is not easy; you must hire a professional to solve this problem. Do not wait until a tiny leaking issue turns into a major hole in your roof as it can weaken the structure and cause irreversible damage.

4. Poor Ventilation

Poor ventilation is another cause of roof damage. Ventilation allows hot air to escape and lets in cool air, which keeps the internal temperature stable. With this, your attic and roof can maintain temperature and regulate moisture levels. Poor ventilation can cause heat and moisture buildup and damage the internal roof temperature.

5. Damaged Downspouts

The downspouts or gutters of your roof can cause major damage to your house, roof, interior, and lawn as it can accumulate or pour water in unwanted spots. If you notice any kind of damage in your roof gutters, get them fixed at once as it often needs just unclogging and reattaching. If the downspouts are not fixed at the earliest, the damage can be irreversible. It can, however, be fixed with a complete roof renovation but can cost thousands of dollars.

6. Bald Patches or Discoloration

Bald patches on the roof shingles are often caused due to continuous sun exposure and harmful UVA and UVB sun rays. This is primarily noticed in shingles made with asphalt as they can readily absorb sunlight and UV rays. The damage starts with discoloration, the formation of bald patches, and eventually leads to cracks. In the end, the shingles will fall off due to the loss of important granules damaged by UV rays. Even though roof shingles have a lifespan of 2 to 3 decades, it is necessary to keep an eye on and maintain them as it can result in irreversible damage.

7. Splitting Shingles

Shingles placed on your roof can split due to constant weather changes as they expand and contract at a rapid pace. Even though your roof seems stable and static, it may shift by a few inches due to weather changes, which can cause major damage in the future. Continuous exposure to hot temperature and sunlight can also split the shingles, thereby causing a major structural and financial loss. In extreme cases, your roof will be warped if the shingles touch, slide, or bump into each other.

It is important to keep an eye on your roof and get it checked by experts every once in a while. Failing to do so can result in a major loss, which can be irreversible at times. At times, insects and animal burrows built inside your roof’s structure can also be a hidden cause of roof damage. Hire a professional roof expert in your locality to get it checked and ensure your roof’s safety.