Roof repair can be costly, but the financial commitment is well worth it, especially as harsher winter weather approaches. And, often times, you can save yourself a load of stress and money by dealing with it as a preventative measure rather than when a leak gets worse or catastrophe strikes and your roof collapses. 

There are some common roof issues you can check for each season to help extend the life of your roof and resolve issues quicker when spotted early.

5 common roof problems

Leaking

• The winter is the hardest season on your home, and particularly your roof. During the winter, snow melts and re-freezes causing it to act as a wedge under shingles or behind flashings. Once the weather begins to warm up, these ice wedges melt and can leak through your roof. This is why it’s important to keep an eye on your roof each season. Watch out for lifted edges and anything that looks like water could penetrate.

Broken Gutters

• Gutters are very important to your home, so be sure to visually inspect them often. Failing to repair or replace your broken gutters could cause serious issues, especially after a big rainstorm. When your gutters are not properly attached to your roof, they’re not able to do their main job, which is to divert water away from your home. This can lead to property damage and flooding.

Dislodged Downspout

• When downspouts become displaced, they can cause water to flow directly around the foundation of your home. That water can then saturate your foundation and leak through to your basement, resulting in significant long-term problems. The risks of ignoring water flow in all the wrong places can lead to foundation cracking and mould growth among other things. Be sure to check your downspouts to ensure they’re connected and positioned correctly.

Chimney Disrepair

• Chimney deterioration is common in older homes but can happen in a home of any age. The most common issue associated with chimney deterioration is leaking. During the winter, snow and ice will begin to build up on your chimney. The older the chimney is, the more likely it is to have cracks in the crown (top). As the snow melts during the day, the water runs into those cracks. At night as the temperature drops, the water re-freezes. As it expands, it pushes the mortar and bricks apart. If this keeps recurring, it could cause your roof to leak and even ultimately fall off your house.

Animal Housing

• Loose flashings or siding, corroded or rotten fascia boards and dormant chimneys all make great homes for raccoons, squirrels, birds, bats and wasps. If you hear recurring noise on or in your roof or walls, that may be the sound of an unwanted houseguest. If you’re concerned you may have pests living in your roof, it’s wise to call a wildlife removal company. They’ll be able to get the animals safely out of your home and then safeguard the areas where animals and pests can enter your home. The wildlife expert will also be able to advise you if the animal/pest has caused damage to your roof that requires repair.

And with winter comes extreme snowfalls, ice, sleet and rain. Remember that it’s not the depth of snow that’s the issue – it’s the density. Light, fluffy snow is not a problem for roofs – it’s the mix of water and snow that poses the greatest risk for collapse under its heavy weight. Sometimes snow needs to be removed to protect your roof and home’s structural integrity. Check out these Tips for Avoiding Roof Collapse this Winter.

When in doubt, it’s always best to have a professional inspection performed to ensure your roof is in tip-top shape.

Find an Inspector near you: https://abuyerschoice.com/locations