Weather's Effects
WINTER SNOWS - Ice dams: As temperatures around freezing fluctuate, the "refreezing" on the roof's overhang forms an ice dam. This is the area where the surface is cooler. The water is then blocked from draining into the gutter properly resulting in its backing up under shingles or roofing materials. This in turn can result in seeping into the interior of the house. When ice fills the gutters and downspouts during the early melt stages often damage beyond repair results. Contributing weight or wind can also result in ice filled gutters being torn off the house or building entirely.
SPRING RAINS - Moisture: Let it rain but be aware that trapped moisture does damage. Water remaining under shakes, shingles or other roofing materials can begin to make its way to the roof deck and lead to the roof structure actually beginning the process of rotting. Mildew as well can develop as the result of any additional moisture trapped behind view within the house. The source of moisture can be hidden within walls, electrical systems and insulation.
SUMMER SUN - Heat: The sun itself can contribute to the deterioration of your roofing materials as they are penetrated by heat and ultraviolet rays over time. The sides of the structure facing west or south tend to deteriorate faster.
AUTUMN WINDS - Storms: When high winds rage, the edges of shingles or roofing materials can become lifted exposing a passage for debris or forced water to enter beneath. Naturally the more severe the storm and wind speed the more extensive the damage.
Additional Potential Problems - From Inside and Out
Top Consideration - The Attic - Check inside the attic for condensation. If your attic holds in relatively warm, moisture-laden air you may be building up condensation which in turn can promote decay of wood sheathing and rafters. Check the airflow and level of ventilation. Larger or additional vents may be required to provide sufficient airflow and temperature maintenance.
Green and Growing! - Check outside for Algae and Moss found on shakes and shingles. Moist wood is the platform and once it grows moss can cause rot by holding even more moisture to the roof system's surface. Moss roots can then grow their way into wood deck and structure. Asphalt shingle or wood roof systems can also provide the damp, shady areas that moss loves for growth, creating black-green stains and retaining the moisture that can cause rot and deterioration.
Branches Back-off! - Check for tree branches to be trimmed to help deter the creation of damp areas for potential moss or algae growth on the roof system's surface. Overhanging branches in close proximity to the house can also become hazardous in high winds. Those branches already touching a roof can scratch, damage or puncture your roofing materials with the help of a strong enough wind. And watch for leaves! Trapped leaves in gutters block drainage and cause rot by retaining moisture.
Maintain for Gain - Immediate maintenance of shingles provides overall protection of your investment. Prevent the domino effect of allowing your roof structure to be compromised by a single torn or missing shingle making others vulnerable as well. This weakened area increasing the chance for water damage or rot. Older shingles can also lose their effectiveness to waterproof and can split and curl, becoming more easily blown off and resulting in interior damage and structural rot. A weakened roof system can only get worse with time.
Sealed Tight All Around - Check out flashings. Often an assumed roof leak in reality is a flashing leak around skylights, chimneys, wall junctions, and vents. Insulations and electrical systems as well as walls and ceilings can be compromised by flashing leaks. A biannual roof inspection and gutter cleaning should include a check to ensure good, tight flashings.