The roof protects the rafters, walls and foundation of the building from weather damage. It is important to regularly inspect and repair any roofing problems as soon as they appear.

Cleaning gutters helps to direct water away from the roof. Resealing flashing around chimneys and vents will prevent leaks. Contact Erie Roofing for professional help.

Shingle roofs are exposed to a lot of natural perils—sun, wind, and rain are just some of the many hazards that can damage shingle structures. Whether it’s the result of harsh weather or wear and tear, a damaged roof can leave you with costly repairs. Fortunately, understanding common shingle damage signs can help you stay on top of roofing maintenance to keep your roof looking great and functioning effectively.

Shingle Damage

One of the most common forms of shingle damage is curling and buckling. This is caused by an accumulation of moisture in the attic or a lack of ventilation, which causes shingles to become brittle and weak. When this happens, shingles are at an increased risk of being torn from the roof and allowing water to seep in.

Curling shingles may also indicate other problems that need to be addressed. If the roof isn’t properly vented through soffit, ridge or gable vents, hot air can become trapped in the attic, causing moisture to build up. This can cause the shingles to become brittle and develop a concave shape in the center. In addition, the excess heat can cause granules to become dislodged from the shingle and deteriorate over time.

Inspecting shingle damage often requires climbing onto the roof, so it’s important to use a safe ladder and prioritize safety. If you’re concerned about shingle damage, be sure to contact an expert to schedule a roof inspection. A professional can identify issues that are easy to miss, like water stains on the ceiling or walls.

Depending on the severity of the damage, a professional can suggest ways to prevent further damage and restore the roof’s function. In the case of shingle damage, this might include adding bracing and hurricane straps for added stability or installing impact-resistant shingles. In addition, regular roof inspections are recommended to ensure that the shingles are in good condition and have adequate support. It’s also important to trim any trees around the house, and regularly clean gutters to avoid debris buildup that can lead to clogs and water backup.

Standing Water

If water ponds on your roof after rainfall, it can cause major damage to your home or business. It will decrease your roof’s lifespan and lead to a more frequent need for repairs. It can also affect the walls and structure of your property. And if it’s left unattended, it can even lead to a roof collapse.

Stagnant water attracts mosquitoes, flies, roaches, termites, rodents, and other pests. These insects thrive in wet conditions and can carry diseases that may put your family or employees at risk of illness. They can also damage wooden structural supports on your property and leave behind rotting wood.

Standing water can also pose a serious health threat to your family or employees if it becomes infested with mold and mildew. These allergens can irritate your nose, throat, and skin, causing respiratory problems. They can also exacerbate allergies and asthma. In some cases, they can also cause more severe health issues like lung disease and even cancer.

Water accumulated on the property can damage the foundation and cause cracks in walls, floors, and ceilings. It can also leach contaminants into the walls, drywall, and insulation of your house. This is particularly a problem in old homes where the shingles and wood can rot.

If you are unsure if your roof is experiencing ponding water, examine it 2-3 days after significant rain when the weather is warm and sunny. This will allow the water to evaporate more easily.

The most important thing you can do to protect your home or business is to have a professional inspect the area and determine the causes of the issue. A qualified roofing contractor can identify the areas in need of repair, recommend preventative measures, and install new gutters to help solve the standing water problem. To learn more about how our team can help, contact us for an inspection today! We would be happy to answer any questions you have about your roof and how we can repair or replace it. We offer free estimates and are licensed and insured.

Mold & Mildew

Mold and mildew are more than just cosmetic issues that can damage shingles and compromise the structural integrity of your roof. They also cause a variety of adverse health effects including eye irritation, respiratory problems and more. While mildew is generally less harmful than mold, it can still cause sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and throat, sores, and even more serious health conditions like migraines and depression.

These problems occur as a result of excess moisture, often from improper roof venting and poor air circulation. Mold spores thrive in warm, humid environments and can quickly spread over large areas of your roof if not addressed immediately.

A common indicator of mold is discoloration on a home’s roof. Streaks or splotchy spots are typically green, black or brown in color and can lead to a number of severe health and safety issues.

Another common sign of mold is a musty smell. The earthy, rotting scent that accompanies most forms of mold is difficult to mistake for anything else and can indicate that mold is present on or near your roof. If you notice this smell, contact a professional immediately, as they can inspect your home for signs of mold and provide treatment services accordingly.

As previously stated, excessive moisture is the leading cause of mold growth and must be addressed immediately to prevent long-term damage. Leaking roofs are especially susceptible to this issue as they allow moisture to seep into insulation and wood materials, causing them to degrade over time. When this happens, the material can deteriorate and eventually reach your walls, where it can further compromise indoor spaces.

Regular cleanings and proper roof maintenance are the best ways to prevent mold and mildew from forming on your roof. Be sure to regularly clean your gutters and downspouts, and use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to redirect excess moisture away from the house. Additionally, using mold-resistant drywall and paints will help prevent the buildup of mold on the surfaces of your home. Finally, routine inspections and prompt repairs will ensure that your roof’s ventilation system is functioning properly, preventing excess moisture from building up in your attic or crawl space.

Fungus

Fungi are a diverse group of microscopic microorganisms with an extraordinary ability to adapt to different environments. They are able to absorb nutrients from the environment, which they store in an organic cell wall composed of chitin — the same material that makes up the exoskeletons of crustaceans and insects. Fungi are classified into five phyla, which are distinct from other living organisms but share similar characteristics.

Roof fungus, also known as mold or mildew, can appear as dark streaks or stains on your roof. This unsightly discoloration is due to a variety of factors, including high humidity levels and shaded areas. While the majority of fungus is not harmful, the presence of fungi on your roof can cause serious damage over time.

Fungus can weaken the structure of your roof, causing it to deteriorate and leak. Eventually, this may lead to structural issues inside your home, such as clogged gutters and water damage.

The best way to prevent fungus is to perform regular roof inspections and catch any signs of growth early. Keep in mind that the early stages of fungus can resemble dirt or grime, so a keen eye is necessary.

It is also important to trim any trees that are touching your roof and ensure that your gutters work properly. This will help to avoid excess moisture and encourage the drainage of rainwater, preventing the development of fungi.

Fungi can also be found growing in plant roots in a symbiotic relationship, where they provide plants with essential nutrients in return for sugars. These fungi are called mycorrhizal fungi, and they are well-known for their benefits to terrestrial plants. Fungi can be beneficial to green roofs as they can deliver nutrient-rich soil to the roof surface and improve drainage.

The health of your roof is critical to the overall integrity and safety of your home. By addressing potential issues like wet or dry rot, green algae and fungi, and standing water, you can extend the life of your roofing materials and save yourself from expensive and premature replacements. Fungus can be easily removed with a professional pressure washing, which is both effective and environmentally friendly.

Performing regular roofing maintenance saves money by helping to prevent deterioration and extending the life of a home’s roof. It also helps to reduce energy costs by keeping the home properly insulated and ventilated.

During an inspection, a professional will check the condition of shingles and inspect the attic for signs of moisture damage such as water stains or mold. They will also look at the gutters to ensure they are free of clogs and debris. Visit https://www.fivestarroofingandcontracting.com to learn more.

Gutters play an important role in directing rainwater away from the roof and foundation of your house. However, they can become clogged with leaves, dirt, sticks, and other debris. This prevents water from flowing freely and can damage the exterior walls, siding, and foundation of your home. Regular gutter cleaning prevents these problems by ensuring that they are clear of blockages and can drain properly.

Gutter cleaning should be done twice a year, in the spring and fall. However, the frequency can vary depending on climate and weather conditions. For example, homeowners in areas with frequent hurricanes and snow might need to clean their gutters more often. Moreover, surrounding trees that shed leaves or pine needles can increase the need for gutter maintenance.

Professionals use a variety of tools to perform gutter cleaning, including high-powered handheld blowers and extension poles. These are used to remove larger debris, while a scoop and bucket are helpful for removing smaller particles. Additionally, professionals wear gloves and safety goggles to protect themselves from sharp objects. Some even use a telescopic gutter cleaner that can remove clogs from the ground without the need for a ladder.

In addition to preventing damage from water overflow, regular gutter cleaning can save you money on roof and foundation repairs. This is because it prevents rot, mold, and premature wear. It can also prevent pest infestations. Standing water and rotting leaves in clogged gutters create the perfect environment for rodents and insects, while clean gutters make it harder for these pests to find nesting sites.

Gutter maintenance also includes trimming overhanging trees to reduce the risk of them causing roof damage during storms. It is also crucial to ensure that there is adequate ventilation in the attic and roof space to prevent moisture buildup. Moisture in the attic can cause rot, mold, and leaks. Having the right type and amount of ventilation prevents these issues and extends the lifespan of your roof.

Shingle Inspection

Shingle roofs need regular maintenance to keep them in good condition and protecting the home. When shingles are damaged or missing, they allow water inside the house and can cause costly damage. Regular inspections help identify problems and correct them before they become significant and expensive.

When conducting a visual inspection of a shingle roof, look for any areas where shingles are missing, loose, cracking or curling. Also, check the wood sheathing of the roof to make sure it’s free of rot or insect infestation. Finally, remove any debris clogging gutters and examine the underlayment of the roof to ensure it is intact.

In areas with extreme weather, the lifespan of shingles can be significantly reduced. Regular roof inspections are critical in these environments to identify damage and address it quickly to extend the life of the roofing system.

A visual inspection should include the chimney, flashing, vents, skylights and any other roof features that are attached to the shingle structure. Check for any areas where the flashing or vent boot is separated from the shingle, which can lead to leaks. Also, look for rust on the metal pieces that connect different planes of the roof or in the gutters.

Look for any areas of granule loss on the shingles, as this can expose the underlying asphalt and accelerate deterioration. Keeping an eye on granule loss allows homeowners to address small issues before they escalate and can save money by prolonging the lifespan of the roof.

Inspecting a shingle roof requires climbing a ladder and walking on the roof, so it’s best to do this with a partner and wear safety equipment like harnesses and hard hats. A pair of binoculars is helpful as well. In addition to identifying any problems, it’s also important to note if the shingles are light or dark in color as this can indicate the presence of mold and other fungus that can compromise their integrity. If you notice any areas that are dark in color, contact a professional for further inspection. They can determine the source of the issue and recommend the appropriate course of action.

Flashing Inspection

Whether it’s water leaks or mold and mildew, moisture intrusion is one of the most destructive forces that can plague homes. A major cause of water damage is damaged or missing flashing, which can be spotted during a roof inspection. Flashing is the unsung hero of roofs, sealing joints and transitions to prevent water infiltration. Made from copper, aluminum, galvanized steel or other materials, it’s often installed around chimneys and dormers, at roof valleys, and at the intersections of different roof lines.

Properly functioning flashing will direct rainwater away from critical areas of a home’s exterior, and protect the walls and foundation from water penetration. It’s also the key component in keeping shingles watertight and protecting against structural damage from leaking gutters.

A roofing professional will check for signs of damage to flashing including corroded metal, loose or missing caulk, or exposed or broken tiles. In addition, a roofing contractor will look at the condition of gutters and downspouts and note any clogs or other problems that may be contributing to leaks.

The location of a home can influence how well the roof flashing performs, particularly in climates with harsh winter weather. A roofing professional will pay special attention to areas where the roof meets vertical wall structures such as chimneys, dormers and skylights. These areas are especially susceptible to the damaging effects of wind-driven rain.

As part of a thorough roof inspection, an InterNACHI inspector will check for gaps or cracks in the sealant used to make flashing joints and corners watertight. It’s common for this type of caulking to deteriorate over time, leading to water infiltration and causing other damage. In some cases, a gap or crack in the flashing can be corrected by applying new caulking or silicone sealant. In more severe cases, damaged flashing will need to be replaced. An experienced roofing contractor will be able to assess the situation and recommend appropriate repairs.

Metal Roof Inspection

Metal roofs must be inspected on a regular basis to ensure they are performing well and providing proper protection. A roofing contractor will look for signs of corrosion or rust. They will also inspect the metal panels for signs of separation at the seams. This separation can lead to leaks and other problems. A roofing professional will check to make sure the seams are adequately sealed and to replace any sealant that has deteriorated or is missing.

It is also important to check the fasteners that hold the panels in place. Whether a roof is screw-down or standing seam, the fasteners must be checked to see that they aren’t loose, crooked, angled, or missing. The fasteners should also be inspected for any EPDM washers that may begin to break down from exposure to UV radiation and potentially create a leak zone.

If the metal roof has any penetrations (such as chimneys, vents, or flues), they must be inspected to make sure that the penetration flashing is intact and secure. This is a common source of leaks in metal roof systems.

Another critical area to inspect is the eaves and soffit. These areas are prone to moisture intrusion that can lead to interior damage, structural damage, and even mold and mildew problems. A roofer will look for signs of leaks in these areas as well as check the eaves to make sure the metal flashing is in good condition and the underlayment is not saturated.

A roofer will also look for any ice dams that may be forming on the roof. These dams can form when snow melts and runs down the roof, but freezes again at the eaves. When a ice dam forms, it can hold water up under the metal roof and cause damage and leaks. Lastly, the roofer will look for any dents or dings in the metal roof. They will also look for any leaking gutters and downspouts.

It is important for the homeowner to remember that it is unsafe to walk on a metal roof. It is always better to have a roofing contractor do this inspection on a regular basis than to wait until a problem occurs that could require a complete roof replacement.