Spring is here, and with it comes the perfect time to assess your home’s exterior for signs of wear and tear. If you’re a homeowner or property manager, your roof should be one of the first areas you inspect. Roof damage, whether minor or severe, can lead to expensive repairs when left unchecked. Here are the most common roof damages you can experience and how to handle them!
The Most Common Types of Roof Damage and Their Causes
Your roof is your first line of defense against nature’s many elements, but that also makes it vulnerable to various types of damage. Here are the top culprits you should be aware of:
Shingle Damage
Damaged or missing shingles are one of the easiest issues to spot. Whether they’re cracked, curled, or completely missing, shingle issues can expose your roof to leaks and further damage.
Causes:
- Severe Weather Conditions such as High Winds, Heavy Rain, or Hailstorms
- Natural Aging of Materials Overtime
- Poor Installation or Low-Quality Materials
What to Do: If you notice loose or missing shingles, get them replaced as soon as possible. Neglecting the issue can allow water to seep in, compromising the underlying structure of your roof.
Leaks and Water Damage
Roof leaks are a common concern, especially during rainy or snowy periods, and often make themselves known by water stains on your ceiling or walls.
Causes:
- Clogged Gutters that Prevent Proper Drainage
- Cracked Flashing
- Worn-Out Sealants Around Vents and Chimneys
What to Do: Inspect your roof for visible leaks or water pooling. A professional roofing contractor can quickly identify the source and make necessary repairs.
Structural Damage
Heavy snow, falling tree branches, or prior neglect can compromise the structural integrity of your roof, leading to sagging or, in worse cases, complete failure.
Causes:
- Prolonged Accumulation of Snow or Ice during the Winter
- Storm Debris or Tree Limbs Falling on the Roof Surface
- Moisture Damage to the Support Beams
What to Do: Address any signs of sagging or instability immediately. Structural issues often require a contractor to reinforce or replace certain parts of the roof.
Gutter Problems
While gutters aren’t technically part of the roof, clogged or broken gutters can result in water overflow, leading to leaks or structural roof damage.
Causes:
- Leaves, Debris, and Dirt Getting Stuck in the Gutters
- Poor Gutter Installation or Lack of Regular Cleaning
What to Do: Make gutter cleaning a seasonal routine and ensure downspouts are directing water away from your home.
Why Spring is the Best Time to Check for Roof Damage
Winter weather often leaves roofs vulnerable, and spring provides the perfect conditions for inspection and repairs. With warmer temperatures and less frequent storms, you can assess damages caused by snow, ice, and wind without additional complications.
Not sure where to start? Here’s a handy roof inspection checklist for the spring:
- Check for Loose, Cracked, or Missing Shingles
- Inspect Flashing around Vents, Chimneys, and Skylights
- Look for Water Stains Inside Your Attic or on your Ceiling
- Trim Overhanging Branches near the Roofline
Not comfortable inspecting your roof yourself? Hiring a professional like Eastbrook Construction ensures a thorough examination and proper repairs, saving you time and potential stress!
Repair Your Roof Now
Roof damage doesn’t wait—so why should you? Whether you’ve found missing shingles, an unexplained leak, or evidence of mold, now is the time to take action. Spring is your opportunity to protect your property and avoid costly repairs later in the year.
By scheduling your roof inspection and repairs now, you can ensure your home stays safe and secure for all seasons to come. Contact Eastbrook Construction today to book a consultation with our roofing experts.
Don’t leave your roof to chance—we fix the most common roof damage or something rare. Give us a call, and we’ll handle the rest!