Common Roof Problems in Grand Rapids Michigan to Look Out For
Weather constantly attacks your roof each and every day. When it’s raining or snowing outside the roof on your home feels the impact of that weather. Even on sunny clear days the roof is also affected as the UV rays constantly heat up the shingles on your home. This constant bombardment of weather elements can play a role in your roof failing. However, weather isn’t the only factor when it comes to roofing in Grand Rapids Michigan. We’ve included some of the common roof problems that you may have on your Grand Rapids Michigan home and what you can do about it to protect your home better.
Common Roof Problems in Grand Rapids Michigan to Look Out For
Roofs can have plenty of issues that range from slight to devastating. Even minor damage can snowball over time causing you to spend thousands of dollars to repair or replace your roof. Catching this damage early can save you significantly in your pocketbook not just in terms of roof repair in Grand Rapids Michigan but also because it can prevent water damage and other problems in your home as a result of a roof leak. When looking at your roof keep in mind these common problems.
Moisture and Leaks
Even minor wind can damage a roof creating moisture to go underneath the shingles. Building up of moisture can swell the frame underneath creating even larger holes leading to leaks. If left unchecked a leak can cause molding and rot which can cause further damage while also being harmful to your loved ones.
Animals
Rats, squirrels, raccoons and more are not only a pest problem – riddled with all sorts of disease and bugs – but can also create multiple roofing problems. They can often bore away or rip up parts of the roof undermining its foundation from the inside-out.
Penetration and Punctures
Wind and hail can bust through roofing material, sometimes with ease. Often times the flashing around openings in the roof can be flayed open, reducing their effectiveness in keeping humidity and air out.
Trees
One of the worst of the worst culprits of roof damage but often one of the easiest to maintain. Tree limbs that hang over a roof can fall down rubbing away material and destroying its protective layer. In rainstorms, this damage is multiplied by broken branches being used as wind to pierce through the shingles like a spear. Trees should be sufficiently cut back if they are hanging too low.
Lack of Maintenance
Roofs can’t last forever and as a human body, they should be properly taken care of to last a long time. The typical roof can last around twenty years, but that time can be cut short if minor problems are ignored for too long. Doing basic maintenance like cutting back trees, cleaning out the gutter, and getting annual inspections can all ensure that you are getting the maximum amount of life out of your roof.
Ventilation
As most people know warm air naturally rises and cool air naturally falls. Proper attic ventilation can take advantage of this process by cycling out this warm air. Without this properly installed process not only will your home be less cool, but the build-up of humidity can accelerate the erosion process of the roof from the inside. Build up of heat inside can cause additional damage to the rafter, sheathing, and shingles causing a wide range of problems ranging from leaks to mildew.
Poor Installation
Bad installation methods can create a multitude of issues down the road and thus decrease its life expectancy. The poor installation often comes from roofing contractors that are not certified or scam artists just trying to do a superficial job that looks okay on the surface. A roofing professional should be able to install a range of different types of shingles along with knowing how to properly put on flashing. Don’t rely on shoddy or bad installers to get your roof problems fixed in a jiffy. Whether you need an entire roof replacement or are just overdue for your annual roof inspection try calling the experts at Grand Rapids Home Pros. We have years of experience and certified professionals that are able to answer all your questions with their many years of combined experience.
