This article originally appeared on generalknowledge360.com

The roof is arguably the most important element of a home- protects your home from the elements and provides shelter for your family. Buying a home could be an exciting new venture, but paying attention to your roof is something that every homeowner should be aware of. Conditions like storms, hail damage, and general wear and tear can damage roofs. 

Having routine inspection and maintenance done on your roof can save you a lot of time and money. Here are common roof problems your local roofing company will help you with. 

Common Roofing Issues A Local Roofing Company Can Help You With

1. Pooled Water

Pools of water on your roof are an indicator that there is a drainage problem around your home. Clogged gutters or downspouts aren’t draining properly after heavy rain storms can cause this issue. Water accumulated on your roof can seep into your house and cause further damage. Flat roofs are prone to this problem. You can identify and address this problem by conducting roof and gutter inspections.

2. Leaky Roof

The most common problem on the roof is leaks due to damaged shingles, leaks under the shingles, leaks near vents and pipes, and many other places. Cracks in the shingles, flashing, or vents, as well as holes in the attic or chimney, can cause leaks. Attic moisture and discolored walls or ceilings can be indicators of leaks.

Roof leaks can cause expensive structural damage if left untreated. It is, therefore, best to fix a leak as soon as possible to minimize the damage. Call a professional if you notice any signs of a roof leak.

3. Shrinking Materials 

Structures can expand and contract because of temperature fluctuations. As shingles shrink, cracks will appear, warping will occur, and the materials will break down. Consequently, your home may have openings and holes, decreasing energy efficiency. Use the synthetic rubber membrane on roofs which is less susceptible to water damage.

4. Defective Gutters 

When gutters are blocked or defective, water can back up along the roof edge and seep into the eaves, where it can rot; when you build or replace your roof, you can prevent this problem by installing a drip edge. You need to ensure that your local roofing company installs gutters properly. 

It is also possible to prevent blocked gutters by regularly cleaning and installing gutter screens. Check your gutters for decay, rust, or cracks if your gutters are clean but still overflow with water.

5. Aging Roof

Aging is a common problem that can affect the appearance of your roof. It’s caused by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays and other environmental stressors such as weather and aging wood shakes. This damage is most noticeable on older roofs, which may have been exposed to the elements for a long time and suffered from leaks or excessive exposure to sunlight.

Aging roofs may cause leaks or structural failure that causes a home to collapse. A local roofing company can repair aging roofs and prevent further damage from occurring.

Summary

Proper maintenance can stop many issues before they start. If you have concerns about your roof or know you need a new one, contact an experienced local roofer for an in-depth assessment of your property’s needs. A local roofing company can advise if you may need to replace your roof and make your new investment last by providing adequate maintenance.