Common Causes of Roof Damage that Pose a Major Threat
- By Vicki Glow
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- 31 Jul, 2019
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Roofs face the most extreme weathering out of any part of the home. Since it’s always exposed to the elements, it’s rather common for your roof to sustain some damages. While some of it is unavoidable, it’s always best to prepare for the worst and stay in the know. Here are the most common causes of roof damages and some ways you can handle them.
Rain
If your roof already has some minor issues or deterioration, the rain will be a huge concern. When heavy rains blow through, it’s very possible that your house will experience water damage. This can seep into nearly all areas of your home, inviting issues such as mold.
Ice and snow
Winter weather causes a headache for many reasons, but one particular issue is the damage it can cause to your roof. Snow and ice can put extra strain on your roof; however, once it melts, some extra problems may arise. It can thaw and seep into the shingles, creating water damage. Winters in Chicago are notoriously cold and snowy, with an average snowfall of 37 inches. As such, you’ll want to be extra cautious about checking your roof during this time of the year.
Wind
After a heavy bout of winds, it’s almost inevitable that we’ll drive by a tree that’s fallen due to the extreme weather. A huge fear (and a real possibility) is that a tree may fall on your roof and cause massive damage. The wind is the biggest culprit for this. As such, you should regularly trim and remove any trees that show signs of rotting, as they are likely to fall.
Animals
Critters always find a way to burrow into the most inconvenient areas, and the same is true when it comes to your roof. One of the most common causes of roof damage is simply due to animals, including squirrels, raccoons, rodents, and birds. If you ever hear something skittering around, or if you see a critter while you’re in your yard, take care of them as soon as possible. There is a strong possibility that they’ll tear up your roof in hopes of getting inside—two outcomes that are less than ideal.
Lack of maintenance
To best get ahead of any future issues, proper maintenance is key. Small issues in your roof may not be noticeable from far away, but they can cause some major damage in the future. By getting regular maintenance done, you can stop those issues before they become serious.
There are few parts as central to your house as your roof. From the way it protects your house to the way it ties everything together, a sturdy, great-looking roof is a must. Be sure to keep your roof in tip-top shape, and repair it whenever necessary, so you can enjoy your home to the fullest.
Getting ahead of any problems is key. As such, you should consider investing in roof maintenance in Lake Zurich. The Leak Stop Roofing Inc. team can help mitigate any issues before they get out of control.