Too often, roof problems go unnoticed until there’s a major issue, like rotting supports or water leaking through your ceiling into your home. We’ve compiled a list of the five elements of your roof most likely to cause a maintenance problem. If you watch out for warning signs, you can identify potential roofing problems and address them before they become invasive and expensive home repairs.
Fascia
Fascia is the vertical edging that runs along the bottom of your roofline. It creates a protective barrier between the elements and the bottom of the roof. It also prevents water and moisture from making its way into your home at your roofline. The most common problem with fascia is moisture damage. It’s important to regularly check your fascia for signs of water damage and moisture, and water-damaged fascia can lead to water damage in the rest of your home’s structure.
Soffit
If you stand under the eaves of your roof and look up, you’ll see your soffit. Soffit has small vents in it that help with air circulation, drawing moisture heat and moisture away from your home and helping to regulate the temperature in your attic. Make sure you check your soffit regularly for cracks and signs of water damage. It’s also important to look for holes or damage caused by insects or rodents, as they are drawn to this portion of your roofline and can cause damage or enter the rest of your home.
Flashings
Flashings seal any disruptions in your roofing, like the portions around vents, skylights, chimneys and pipes. Flashing prevents water from leaking into your home at these weak points in your roof. Most flashing is made from galvanized steel and can corrode or break down over time. It’s important to have flashings checked regularly to avoid having water leaking in through your roof to your home’s supports.
Gutters
You’re familiar with your gutters: They usher water away from your roof and away from your home’s foundation. The most common problems with gutters, of course, is that they can become clogged with leaves, twigs and other debris, preventing them from working properly. Gutters also can become dislodged or develop leaks over time. It’s important to keep your gutters in good working order, as failing gutters can lead to water damage, and mold and mildew growth under your roofline.
Shingles
Shingles are, of course, the primary means of protecting your home’s roof from the elements. As they age, shingles can curl, buckle, break or separate from the roof. Any weakness in the shingles, of course, puts your home at risk for major water damage. Be on the lookout for any curling or missing shingles, as well as any discoloration in your roof, which can be an indicator of water damage.
If you notice any areas of concern in your roof, call The Gutterman of Tennessee. While our name says Gutters, we can fix any of your roofing problems and save your home from more extensive water damage.