Exterior Roofing Solutions: What You Need to Keep Your Roof in Mind
Roofs protect us from the elements. They also provide adequate insulation to keep us warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Roofs are composed of various materials, including asphalt, metal, concrete, tile, or shingles. Roofs protect us from harsh weather conditions daily, which can cause significant wear and tear. So it's essential to make sure your roof is adequately maintained s well as your soffit, fascia board, eaves and siding. Here are some of the most common types of problems homeowners may encounter with their roofs and exterior, as well as ways you can prevent them.
Common Roofing Materials, Problems, and Fixes
There are three common types of roofs, depending on the substrate they are made from:
Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Asphalt shingles are by far the most popular type of residential roofing material. They're easy to install, relatively inexpensive, and come in a range of colours and styles. They're also one of the least durable materials, which means if you have an asphalt shingle roof, you'll likely need to replace your roof at some point during its lifetime. Read more here on asphalt shingle roof repairs and how to fix and seal shingles.
Metal roofing
Metal roofs are an excellent option for homeowners looking to improve the curb appeal of their homes. The durability, low maintenance, and low cost make metal roofs perfect for houses in suburban neighbourhoods. However, metal roofs aren't without their own set of problems, such as oil canning, leaking, or scratching/buffing. Read our guide here on proper metal roofing maintenance.
Rubber roofing
When it comes to rubber roofs, you need to know the right kind to purchase for your home. Not all rubber roofs are created equal. Roofing manufacturers create rubber roofing systems using rubber or plastic polymers, or a combination of both, often with recycled materials and sometimes 100% virgin materials. And not all rubber roofing is black or brown! You can find many different colours of recycled rubber roofing available at your local building supply stores. Read more here on rubber shingle roofs.
How to inspect and maintain your roof
Call your roofer to do a thorough inspection. Generally, your roofing specialist will identify areas of concern by looking at your roof from different angles. Your roof inspection should take several hours. During this time, the roofer will visually inspect every section of your roof to ensure it is in good shape and free of issues. Be sure to check their credentials before engaging them to provide any roofing services.
If you conduct your visual inspection, here are some things to look for to mention to the roofing company you hire.
Roof leaks:
Roofs can become faulty over time, from rust and ice buildup to shingles needing significant repair or replacement. Sometimes you experience these without visually seeing that your roof is compromised.
Loose shingles:
Shingles become loose and dangerous if not properly caulked or adequately attached. Loose shingles also allow water penetration.
Shingles with cracks or rot:
A roof that has cracks or rot can allow water and wind to enter your home.
Eavestrough Damaged
One of the major concerns homeowners have with their roofs is the fact that their gutters are dirty. If they have a heavy buildup of leaves, debris or snow, these materials can build up inside the gutter and cause damage to the roof itself. If this occurs, make sure to clean out your gutters to prevent any damage to the roof or the gutters themselves.
Soffit and Fascia Board Damage
Roof leaks are responsible for an estimated $5,225,000 per year in damage for an average 2,100 square foot home. The costs of shingle replacements would range from $2,500 to $6,000, depending on location. So keep in mind that your soffit and fascia work together to prevent leaks. Soffit is an easy way to make your home look better, even if it has nothing to do with the quality of the materials. Keep moisture away from your rafters and reduce the chance of mould, all while adding character to your home!
Fascia Boards are the longboards that connect to the roof rafters and mount gutters. They also close off an attic. If your fascia board is damaged, you might experience clogged gutters, animal infestation in the attic area and other roof problems. A damaged fascia board can be the starting point for other roof problems and ultimately lead to more significant roofing problems.
Siding and Cladding Damages
Gaps and tears in your siding and exterior cladding can allow moisture to seep in. Leaks and cracks in your siding can cause water damage, so make sure to keep an eye on your siding to make sure it's in good condition. We often don't think to keep an eye on your siding and how it works in tandem with your roofing system. Read the warning signs for new siding.
Abrasions, Discoloration and Decay
The surface of your roof protects your home from the elements and weather, especially during stormy weather. The sun's UV rays and the wind can cause discoloration of your roof's surface and wear down the protective membrane. Paint and touch up your siding to prevent wear and tear and protect your roof from the elements. Also, you can remove the rain gutters and install roof gutters to ensure that rainwater doesn't pool on your roof.
What to do if you have any of these problems
If you notice any of these problems:
Roof water infiltration: Clean the gutters and downspouts and add an irrigation system to direct rainwater away from your roof.
Fix roof leaks: Fix any roof leak before they cause water damage and mould. Water damage and mould are bad enough without the added weight of the water you can't see.
Frostnip: The cold of winter, snow, and wind can damage your roof.
Roof insulation: The cold winter winds can damage your roof. An insulated roof will keep heat in and cold out.
Water damage: Water damage can be one of the most costly roofing problems. Stop water from leaking into your home by installing gutters and downspouts that work.
Severe structural damage: It's not uncommon for roofs to get damaged and repaired so that there isn't any stress on your roof.
Keeping your roof healthy is just as important as maintaining your gutters, so regular schedule inspections to see if you're getting your home's most crucial asset prioritized. The most obvious problem is the need to replace your roof, but don't neglect the other issues that may arise. Use these tips to help protect your home from potential problems because roofing is not typically a DIY project. It requires extreme skill and knowledge to install the roof, as well as specialized tools and equipment.
With a roof that needs to be on your mind all year long, consider purchasing roofing supplies such as shingles, trays, and gutters for your home, and see how easy it is to install and maintain them. Your roof is your most expensive asset, so homeowners must keep it in good condition for years to come. If you're planning to do some work on your home, make sure to seek advice from a professional roofing expert. If you have any questions about any of the articles on our website, feel free to call our friendly staff to speak with a trusted local roofing company that can help you in any way possible.