The majority of residential homes in this country are roofed with asphalt shingles. When properly maintained, this type of roof can last for several decades.
That is, provided you maintain the roof and protect it against these 5 causes of damage, all of which will shorten a roof’s lifespan.
After a while, you’ll need to seek the help of a specialist for roof repair near you, but first be cognizant of these.
Wind
Strong winds, not just from storms, but persistent powerful winds can compromise a roof’s integrity by peeling up the asphalt shingles that constitute the roof.
Over time, strong winds can even rip shingles off entirely, leading to patches of your roof that are more fully exposed to the elements.
When this occurs, more of your roof will be susceptible to UV-related damage as well as moisture intrusion.
Sun Exposure
Asphalt shingles are coated with small granules that not only make them physically more durable, but which protect the asphalt underneath from sun exposure and UV-related damage.
The presence of these granules is why you should never power wash a roof, and why you should take special care before ever walking on the roof.
Power washing strips these granules off, as does walking on the roof, which causes mechanical damage which is then compounded by exposure to ultraviolet light.
Over time, UV exposure will make asphalt shingles brittle and they will crumble and fall apart, making them a lot more prone to damage arising from wind and weather.
Rain, Snow and Ice
Rain, snow, ice, and to some degree, hail and even improper snow removal can all damage rooftops. This element of the weather is where most roof-related damage in this country likely comes from.
In the first place, excessive rainfall can overwhelm a roof’s ability to shed water; low areas or improperly installed roofing can also create pooling that presents a risk of moisture intrusion.
Persistent snow pack can result in moisture intrusion when it melts, and hail can cause mechanical damage to a rooftop that allows moisture to seep in over time.
The real issue here is water. When moisture gets underneath the asphalt shingles and penetrates the roof, it can cause rot, mold growth, and other problems that can compromise the structural integrity of your home.
Fortunately, one way you can help prevent precipitation by causing untimely damage to your roof is by keeping your gutters clear, which will help ensure proper drainage during heavy rainfall.
Animals
Many different pests can cause damage to roofs, including but not limited to squirrels, pigeons, and other birds and rodents. These pests can burrow under shingles to get under the roof where they will build nests to escape the elements.
In addition to the physical damage that they can cause, they also predispose the roof to a higher risk of moisture intrusion that can cause the aforementioned rot and mold growth.
Moss and Algae Growth
Moss and algae on rooftops are also a common problem. While algae really presents only a problem of unsightliness due to discoloration, the damage incurred by moss can be much more material.
This is because moss will trap moisture underneath it and against your roof, never allowing it to dry out. This can cause the aforementioned issues associated with rot and mold growth.
Roof Repair Near You: Who to Call
Regardless of the causes of damage to your roof, if you’re in need of the help of a specialist for roof repair near you, get started looking sooner rather than later.
For those in the Indianapolis area, start your search with a call to Roof Masters and Exteriors. They offer services ranging from asphalt repairs and laminate shingle replacements to full pitched roof installs. They even offer specialty services like wood shake services.
For more information visit their website or give them a call at 317-364-9511.
