No matter how large or small your house may be, it’s your castle, the place you and your family call home, and where you keep nearly all your important belongings. And that’s why the roof over it is so important. If you don’t keep it in good repair, nothing and no one inside is protected.
Even the best roofs have an expiration date, and it’s worth your while to keep an eye on warning signs that yours is nearing that time and plan accordingly. But there are some roofing problems that just can’t wait. Here are four urgent roofing problems that require immediate attention.
1- Fallen Trees or Branches
A house surrounded by a few lovely, mature trees is often a welcome sight. They provide shade in the dead of summer and are beautiful to behold in the fall. Trees can, however, be a serious problem for homeowners, particularly if they become sick or damaged, if an overly wet summer saturates their roots to the point they lose their hold in the ground, or if heavy rains or wind take down branches. If a tree or branch falls on your roof causing it damage, line up a tree removal service as soon as possible to clean up the debris. Then get in touch with a reputable roofing contractor to repair the damage.
2- Storm Damage
Roofs are generally pretty tough. After all, they’re designed to protect your home from the elements. But, as we all know, weather can be downright brutal at times. Heavy downpours, high winds, pummeling hail, and never-ending snowstorms can do a number on even the best roofs. If after a severe weather event, you find you’ve lost multiple shingles or layers of roofing, don’t put off having it repaired. If you don’t, further weather events (even minor ones) can result in water seeping through the roof and leaking into your home.
3- Damaged Caused by Fire
Most asphalt shingles are fire-resistant to some degree, but even if they don’t catch fire, they can melt and become contorted by the heat. If, for example, your home experiences a kitchen fire, the roof area above it may experience serious damage. Once any immediate concerns regarding a house fire are addressed, it is imperative any roof damage be assessed and immediately repaired.
4- Mold Growth
Is your home starting to smell a bit musty? Is it worse in the upper floors of the house? You may not visit your attic all that regularly, but it pays to poke your head in at least once in a while. If your roof is not properly ventilated, condensation can build up and lead to unhealthy mold growth. If you are able, check out your roof from outside. Other indications of potential mold growth include dark streaks on the roof, spots that are slimy or spongey, and dark stains around the flashing and joints. If you see any of these signs, call an experienced roofing contractor right away. This is especially critical if you or a household member is immune-compromised or suffers from any chronic lung disease.
