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.
Once you install a new roof, you expect it to serve you for years or decades. That said, you must know that roofing materials develop defects over time. In most cases, the severity of damage will vary based on the environment, climatic conditions, and roofing maintenance. Given that a roof is no simple investment, you must take time to understand common defects. This can help you rectify roofing issues early on and prevent premature replacement. Below are common roof defects you might face and what to do.
Flashing Issues
The flashing offers a watertight seal between the roof sections, roofing materials, as well as other areas of the structure. That said, flashing installation is best left to a competent roofer to ensure maximum protection from water damage. If you go for a DIY installation, you may end up with weak seals.
As a result, moisture will seep into the house via the area roofing material meet and cause significant damage. The good news is that a roofing expert can inspect your roof as needed and seal signs of flashing failure to prevent water damage.
Improper Roofing Design
You should know that getting your roof design right from the get-go is crucial. This is because rectifying a poorly designed roof is tricky and might call for a replacement. Some common design flaws that will force you to re-roof your home include using the wrong materials or constructing a weak roofing support system yourself.
In other cases, you may have a design that doesn't allow the deck material to contract or expand. Also, you may have an improper slope or sagging roof that causes water accumulation and weakens your structure. The only way to ensure a proper roof design is to engage a professional roofer. They will choose the best material and install it to ensure longevity.
Defects Resulting from Poor Maintenance
If you fail to maintain your roof as needed, the material will start to depreciate faster than expected. For example, you must check an asphalt roof for missing shingles, cracks, and damage by debris to avoid material failure. On the other hand, you must check if your metal roof is subjected to harmful elements and take the necessary steps to repair the resulting damage. The crucial thing to remember is that each roofing material will require unique care to ensure longevity.
Generally, you need to clean and inspect your roof on a regular basis to enhance its longevity. Also, keep in mind that the installation is best left to a professional residential roofing contractor to avoid premature failure. For more information on residential roofing, contact a professional near you.