There are a number of roofing problems out there and one of them are leaks. They are mostly a secondary problem, however, as they are more indicators of other roofing issues. By understanding how water is entering your home, you’ll be able to identify other roofing problems present, which will let you take the necessary actions to get your roof back into shape.

DETERIORATION

Over time, your roof will get worn down from taking a regular beating from the elements. If you have asphalt shingles, for instance, you’ll see cracks, blisters and shingles falling off as time goes by. Exposure to the sun also leads to deterioration that weakens roofing material. As sun exposure also causes cosmetic issues, fading in asphalt shingles may be taken as a sign of possible material weakening as well.

DAMAGED FLASHING

Flashing is placed over gaps in roofing material, usually along vents and the edge of the roof, to seal joints. When flashing is damaged, seals over the gaps are loosened, allowing water in. Caulking can also dry up and shrink or flake, compromising a flashing’s bond with roofing material, which can also be a starting point for a leak although the flashing material itself is still in good condition.

PART ONE: IDENTIFYING COMMON ROOFING PROBLEMS

GUTTER DAMAGE

When gutters are clogged or damaged, they can cause water to back up and seep into eaves, leading to leaks.

WIND DAMAGE

Strong winds can pull and tug at roofing materials, loosening them until they are blown off when the next gust arrives. When roofing materials are torn off, they essentially leave you with an incomplete roof, which water has an easier time penetrating.

BIRDS, SMALL ANIMALS AND INSECTS

Local wildlife can also damage your roof by calling it their home. When they bore through the material, the roofing structure is weakened, which paves the way for cracks through which water can enter. And once water is through, it can exacerbate damage already made by birds, small animals and insects.

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Aside from exposure to the elements, faulty installation can also be a cause of roofing problems. Head on over to Part 2 of this e-book to learn how to spot it.

PART ONE: IDENTIFYING COMMON ROOFING PROBLEMS

Your roof will not protect you properly from the elements if it’s not installed right. It will wear down sooner, performing similarly to a damaged roof when it is still relatively new. Unfortunately, many don’t realize they have an improperly installed roof until it’s too late. To give you a clue and let you take action as soon as possible, take note of the following:

MULTIPLE LAYERS OF SHINGLES

Tearing off an old, damaged roof is part of the expense of installing a new one. An inexperienced roofer may cut corners, however, or even attempt to save you expense, by simply installing new shingles over the old ones. While this is technically allowable, a lay over can only be done twice. Not to mention that certain conditions have to be taken into consideration, like a home’s existing structural supports as a new shingle layer will add weight. A tear-off is advisable because not only will it let you avoid straining your home’s structural supports but it will also allow your roofing contractor to thoroughly inspect your roof’s structure for damage.

MISMATCHED SHINGLES

While this can, occasionally, be more of a cosmetic issue, it can still be a sign of a faulty roof. Manufacturers make shingles in batches, and experienced, well-established roofers tend to work with shingles from the same batch. Different shingle batches may also differ in quality, with portions of the roof more susceptible to wear or damage than others.

PART TWO: OTHER CAUSES OF FAULTY ROOFING

SHODDY INSTALLATION

A lot of people second-guess how they see their roof because they aren’t experts, which is what some roofing contractors may be counting on as a way of defending their shoddy work. If your roof visibly appears to be not installed properly, like you have shingles that are not flat, call your roofing contractor’s attention. If it looks off, it is likely that there will be something off about it.

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When you find that you’ve got a problem with your roof, you’ve got a roof that needs fixing. To avoid problems that have previously plagued you, make sure you choose the right roofer with some help from Part 3 of this e-book.

PART TWO: OTHER CAUSES OF FAULTY ROOFING

When you hire a contractor to work on your roof, you want to make sure that you’re getting someone who’s experienced in, and qualified to do the job. It may take a little time and effort to properly vet a potential hire, but that’s time and effort well spent, when you consider all the problems you’ll be avoiding. Aside from checking for state licenses, look for:

A PHYSICAL ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER

Getting a contractor in your area is beneficial because not only does it let you avoid fly-by-night operations but it also ensures that you’re working with someone who has a good grasp of the challenges that local roofs encounter, making them more credible when providing you with solutions to your roofing problems. Aside from a legitimate physical address, a working phone number is essential to ensuring you’re hiring a contractor you can trust.

INSURANCE COVERAGE

Careful planning will allow you to cover your bases but there are just some things that occur beyond your control. This is where insurance coverage comes in. Should anything happen during your roofing job, you will not be liable for any damages or injuries incurred if your roofing contractor has insurance coverage. Ask for a copy of your contractor’s insurance certificate to check.

PART THREE: CHOOSING THE RIGHT ROOFER

REFERENCES

Ask for references from previous local jobs. Check the contractor’s website to not only see samples of their work but to brush up on testimonials as well. If possible, ask to get in touch with previous customers so you can hear for yourself what it was like working with the contractor you are interested in. You can also check out reviews over at GuildQuality, Bazaarvoice and the like to see how a contractor has been doing, giving you an idea as to what your roofing job could be like.

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Don’t let roofing problems get the better of you by calling on a contractor quick when issues arise. Knowing when it’s time to ask for help and who you should be asking will go a long way toward helping you enjoy your roof.

PART THREE: CHOOSING THE RIGHT ROOFER

Vinylume Home Improvement

65 Davenport St.,

Stamford, CT 06902

866-244-8029

VinylumeINC.com