The roof is your home’s first layer of defense against many elements. From rain and snow to falling debris, it’s crucial to have and maintain a roof that is tiptop in shape and performance.
When roof problems are left unattended, it can lead to many other troubles that won’t only further damage your house but your wallet as well. That’s why it pays to know what the various roofing problems are, how to be aware of them and eventually, how to fix and avoid them.
Since many homeowners do not have sufficient knowledge and experience to address these problems, we’re here to help.
From fixing ice dams to fixing roofing problems, below are essential nuggets of information every homeowner should know.
The need for professional help
Before we continue on with this post, we’d like to stress the importance of contacting professionals should roofing problems arise. While it helps to be more knowledgeable about what causes these common problems, it is still recommended to have only those with expertise and experience fix the problem. Otherwise, you could be causing more harm than good.
Dealing with Ice Dams
Apart from leaks, one of the most common roofing problems is an ice dam. Winter season can be quite unforgiving, and this is often the time that your roof of your house is challenged.
But first, what is an ice dam?
Ice dams form when water from melting snow freezes into ice at the edge of your roofline. Once this happens without repair and immediate fixing, the ice that has accumulated can end up growing large enough. When this happens, the ice prevents the water from melting snow from properly draining off the roof. The result? It could lead to your shingles and will eventually penetrate the inside of your home.
Identifying what an ice dam is
There are times when some homeowners would quickly believe that they have an ice dam in their roof. However, that’s not always the case. There are telltale signs that you do have one including its accumulation at the edge of your roof as well as water stains and moisture in and around your ceiling, particularly in the attic.
Icicles are confined in the gutters aren’t always ice dams. However, they could pose danger especially if they are already close to falling off. Should you wish to remove them, make sure you are not standing directly underneath it.
Removing and preventing ice dams
Once you’ve spotted an ice dam, the next best step is to contact professionals. What they will often do is rake off the excess snow and make use of calcium chloride ice melt product.
Some of the preventive measures includes improving your home’s insulation and ventilation, installing sealed can lights, caulking penetrations and adding an exhaust to the outside.
Preventing Other Roofing Problems
Ice dams are just one of the problems you may encounter in your roof. The good news is there are a lot of ways you can help prevent all these problems and ensure you have the best possible protection over your heads.
Here are some ways to prevent common roofing problems.
- Conduct inspections
Whether you have DIY experience or want to have a professional do it for you, regular inspections are key to preventing roof problems. It’s important to prepare for the changing of seasons and to assess whether or not every part of your roof is still performing at its prime.
- Replace shingles and tiles
The root of many roof problems can be attributed to broken, missing or cracked shingles and tiles. This is a fairly easy job to do especially if you are just dealing with one or a few pieces. There are plenty of instructional videos online if it’s going to be the first time you’re replacing these parts.
- Clean your ridges and valleys
The ridges and valleys of your rood are areas where dirt, dust and debris all accumulate. When left uncared for and unattended, they can lead to graver problems that will cause leaks, tears and wears not only in your roof but also, in your walls and ceilings. So make sure you take the time to clean these areas regularly.
- Improve ventilation and insulation
Poor insulation and ventilation are also major causes of roofing problems, particularly the formation of ice dams. Be sure to check if your soffit intake vents and ridge vents are not blocked. Remove anything that could be blocking it. Moreover, add insulation baffles between each rafter or roof truss. The attic is one area you want to pay more attention to, as it is prone to moisture from snow and outside air.
- Stay in the know
It’s good to be knowledgeable about the basic ways to care for your roof. Whether it’s to read or watch more videos online, or even ask for more information from roof professionals, try your best to equip yourself with enough knowledge.
