Whether you can see them or not, roofing problems can be difficult to solve and may be associated with significant expense. Some of the most common roofing problems undermine the structure and function of your roof and may result in the premature failure of your roofing system. Ultimately, it is vitally important to ensure your roof is regularly inspected and maintained in order to prevent any of the following problems from causing serious damage to your building or property.

Leaks and Moisture

Generally a sign of a more extensive problem, leaks are a major concern. Moisture causes the decay of roofing materials and therefore significantly depletes the quality and strength of your roof. Moreover, leaks can start just about anywhere – under flashing, around fixtures, and even in shingles and other materials. If you can see signs of a leak such as bubbling paint or stained ceilings, you should contact your roofer immediately. Leaks must be repaired in order to prevent further damage to your roof and property.

Weathering

Over time, all roofing materials are subject to weathering. Exposure to the sun, rain, snow, and ice causes the materials to break down and fail. While inorganic roofing materials tend to deteriorate less quickly than organic materials, all roofs will eventually need replacement. Regular maintenance helps to keep the effects of weathering at bay, so be sure to schedule yearly inspections with roofing professional.

Wind Damage

Though technically a cause of weathering, wind damage can create an immediate and very serious problem. Especially if you live in a hurricane or tornado zone, strong winds carry debris that can damage roof, but may also strip off roofing materials. As you can clearly see, wind can expose your roof to any manner of problem including leaks. In some cases, wind damage is so severe that a roof replacement is your only option.

Poor Design

Sometimes you buy a home with a poorly designed roof. Unfortunately, design deficiencies can be very difficult and expensive to repair, so your only option may be a replacement. Plus, if deficiencies are not discovered during replacement or repair, the problems associated with these deficiencies are likely to recur. As such, it is vitally important that you work with a qualified, experienced, and respected roofer whenever you are installing a new roof or replacing an existing one.

Faulty Flashing

Flashing is designed to provide a watertight barrier wherever roofing materials, roof fixtures, and other parts of the roof intersect. Because of this important role, flashings tend to be the most vulnerable part of your roof. Regular maintenance is critical with respect to ensuring flashings are functioning optimally so as to prevent leaks and subsequent damage to your roof and its structures.