Some people work as roofers for a summer or two. Others become lifelong devotees to the profession. Those who commit to roofing as a long-time profession really take the time to learn the details. Not only do they learn how to put roofs in place, but they also learn quite a lot about various roofing materials. This equips them to make good recommendations to homeowners who are looking for the right roof. We will also make some recommendations and tell you a bit more about roofers on this blog. While we are not roofers ourselves, we know a lot about the profession and are always happy to share.
Understanding how your roof works can help you to ensure that your roof stays in good condition for as long as possible. One way to avoid missing potential damage to your roof is to be aware of the areas of your roof that are most vulnerable to damage. If you can spot roof damage early, then you can avoid a costly roof replacement.
The following areas are the most vulnerable parts of your roof.
1. Gutters
The gutters of your home serve a quiet but important function. Without your gutters, rainwater would run down your home's walls and damage the foundation around your home. If your gutters clog or a section suffers damage, rainwater may also seep under the shingles at the edge of your home and soak the underlayment, causing it to rot and deteriorate.
Keep an eye on your gutters and ensure that nearby trees don't drop foliage and seeds into them. Gutter guards are one way you can keep your gutters blockage-free.
2. Flashing
Flashing consists of strips of material that contain metal. This material stops rainwater from seeping into the gaps between chimneys, vents, and skylights. Flashing also protects the valleys in roofs that channel rainwater into the gutters. If flashing comes loose or starts to rust, rainwater will seep into your home and cause water damage.
3. Shingles or tiles
Shingles and tiles are the primary layers of protection for many roofs. But harsh weather can damage these materials. Strong winds can rip shingles off a roof and move tiles. And even harsh sunlight can cause asphalt shingles to curl and crack. Even one damaged tile or shingle is an invitation for water to leak into your home.
4. Roof edges
The roof edges are the areas where the eaves lie. Sometimes rainwater can run down to the edge of the roof and make its way under the shingles at the edge of the roof. If this damage goes unnoticed, the wooden components of your roof could begin to rot. Clogged gutters can also cause water to flow onto a roof's edge.
5. Ridge vents
If your home has ridge vents at the top, inspect the vents from your attic often because leaks can sometimes occur under the vents, especially when the vents are old.
Inspect your roof as often as you can and check these areas for signs of damage or deterioration. If you spot damage in these areas, call a roofing contractor as soon as possible. Timely repairs will prevent costly replacement.
For more information on residential roof repair, contact a company near you.