SIGNS OF ROOF TROUBLE
Recognizing the signs of a roof leak can save hundreds of dollars in repairs to walls, ceilings, and fixtures.
Check the inside of your structure
• Leaks in attic such as dark stains in the rafters or insulation
• Stains on interior ceilings and walls
• Paint bubbles around windows, skylights, and lighting fixtures
• Higher energy costs
Check the outside of your structure
• If you have an asphalt roof, check for thin, weatherworn shingles
• If you have a tile roof, check for cracked or missing tiles
• Dark, dirty looking areas can mean fungus and loss of granules
• Warped or gapping shakes can be a sign of leakage
• Check the roofline, if it sags, you may have a long time leak and structural problem
ENVIRONMENTAL ROOF ENEMIES
Many factors affect the life-span of your roof. Knowing about your environment and the following will help you make informed decisions about your roof.
SUN
Heat and ultraviolet rays cause roofing materials to deteriorate (faster on the sides facing west or south.) When shingles are old and worn out, they curl, split and lose their waterproofing effective- ness.
RAIN
When water gets underneath shingles, shakes or other roofing materials, it can work its way to the roof deck and cause the roof structure to rot. Be sure your gutters are in good condition in free of debris.
WIND
High winds can lift shingles’ edges (or other roofing materials) and force water and debris underneath them, resulting in structural rot and interior damage.
CONDENSATION
Condensation can result from the buildup of relatively warm, moisture-laden air. Moisture in a poorly ventilated attic promotes decay of wood sheathing and rafters, possibly destroying a roof structure.
TREES & LEAVES
Falling branches from overhanging trees can damage, or even puncture, shingles and other roofing materials. Leaves on a roof system’s surface retain moisture, cause rot and block gutter drainage.
MOSS & ALGAE
Moss and algae can grow on moist wood shingles and shakes, causing rot. In addition, moss roots also can work their way into a wood deck and structure. Algae also grows on clay and concrete tile roofs near the ocean. Trees and bushes should be trimmed away from homes and buildings to eliminate damp, shaded areas.
BROKEN, MISSING TILES & SHINGLES
The key to a roof system’s effectiveness is complete protection. When shingles and tiles are missing or torn off, a roof structure and home or building interior are vulnerable to water damage and rot. Nearby shingles can be easily ripped or blown away, quickly spreading the problem.
FLASHING DETERIORATION
Many apparent roof leaks are caused by flashing leaks. Good, tight flashings around chimneys, vents, skylights and wall/roof junctions can prevent water from entering a home or building and cause damage. Flashings should be checked as part of a biannual roof inspection and gutter cleaning.
POOR DRAINAGE
Whether you have a pitched or flat roof, proper drainage is important to the care and performance your roof. Excess water pooling will cause shingle deterioration. On flat roofs, be sure your drains are free of debris such as leaves and dirt. Extensive ponding of water can cause leaks and lead to interior damage.
SNOW & ICE
Melting snow often refreezes at a roof’s overhang where the surface is cooler, forming an ice dam. This blocks proper drainage into the gutter. Water backs up under the shingles (or other roofing materials) and seeps into the interior. Lucky for us in Southern California, this is a rare problem.
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