Silver Spring Roofing: Article About Common Roofing Problems
The fascia of a roof is a finishing edge attached to the area where the gutter is fastened to the roof. The main purpose of the fascia is to act as a protective cover for the edge of the roof. It is meant to prevent water penetration.
Question for the expert roofers of Silver Spring from Seneca Creek Home Improvement: How often should a homeowner inspect their roof?A homeowner should typically inspect their roof at least twice a year, especially after any severe weather season. Check in the attic for any signs of leaks or mold. Be sure to keep tree branches trimmed at least 7 feet away from the property because overhanging branches can puncture roofing materials. Branches can also break and fall onto roofs, causing damage.
As a roof gets older and is exposed to the elements over time, some parts of the roof can become vulnerable to water penetration. Be on guard for issues and take action preventatively to avoid expensive structural damage or other issues created by roofing leaks, such as mildew and mold. Silver Spring roofing contractors see a lot of property damage that homeowners could have avoided if only they had taken preventative measures.
Water seeps into a structure in multiple ways. It can leak through faulty joints between the roof and the chimney, and in the valleys of a roof where two sloping sections meet. Water can soak into the roof of a home if the roof has broken or cracked shingles. Cracked shingles typically appear first on the south facing part of the roof due to sun exposure. Finally, anywhere that something projects up through the line of the roof is vulnerable to water penetration. Chimneys and skylights are prime examples of roof features that are susceptible to leaks. If these leaks are found early, they can be sealed before significant damage is done.
Weather damage takes its toll on a roof over time. Hail and high winds can cause damage to shingles and cause them to come loose. Hail strikes create damage by leaving bruises on shingles that can develop into weak spots. Luckily, most insurance policies will cover storm damage.
Have a question regarding roofing, windows or doors? Please ask the expert roofers from Seneca Creek Home Improvement of Silver Spring today.
Ice dams are another cause for concern. Damaging ice buildup can develop on a roof, particularly if the gutters weren't cleared out in the fall. The downspout gets clogged, and any melting snow runoff will build up in the gutters and freeze. Ice dams can lead to a multitude of problems including sagging gutters.
The roof soffit is also vulnerable to damage. The soffit is the panel of wood or metal that is underneath the roof's overhang. Gutters that aren't doing their job will direct water onto the soffit and fascia where the wood will begin to rot and soften. Eventually, pests like squirrels and birds will take advantage of the weakened area to get into the attic to nest. Any time the gutters are being cleaned, homeowners should take a careful look at the soffit and fascia to check for weak spots. To avoid the problem altogether, homeowners should clean out the gutters twice a year. If repairs to the soffit are needed, contact a roofing contractor.
When hiring a roofing contractor, it pays to screen potential contractors carefully. Ask for proof of licensing and insurance, and check for reviews and references from previous customers. By staying on guard for any possible roofing issues, a homeowner can keep their roof in top shape for years to come.
