Roof damage can occur from a lot of things. Similarly, there are a lot of ways to prevent roof damage and keep your property protected. Generally, only a few different types of damages can drastically affect your roof; one of them is damage caused by weather elements and nature. Known as “Acts of God,” these damages are often caused by weather elements like heavy storms or winds, pests, and others. This type of damage is mainly unpreventable, but you can reinforce your roofs to minimize the damaging effect. Aside from roof damage caused by natural disasters and weather elements, another type of roof damage comes from regular wear and tear. Roof wear and tear occurs over time and can be faster or slower depending on the conditions it is exposed to. Roofs that are exposed to extreme temperatures may wear and age faster than others.
While the above two causes of roof damage are prevalent, Bacon Roofing notes that a third type of roof damage exists – this is caused by poor maintenance practices, cheap roofing materials, and poor workmanship. You have control over this type of damage. In this article, we take an extensive look into each type of roof damage and how to avoid them.
Minimizing Impact from “Acts of God”
Acts of God is a term used to describe situations or occurrences that are above human control. This means that they’re unpreventable, but you can put strategies in place to minimize the effect on your roof or home. Acts of God often cover happenings like natural disasters, including heavy winds, tornados, wildfires, etc. To minimize the impact of these natural occurrences, below are some things you need to know.
Minimizing Wind Damage
Wind damage is divided broadly into two classes; Normal wind Damage and Extremely high-speed wind damage. Normal wind damage is a result of high winds that penetrate the underside of your roof shingles, causing them to lift and be displaced. Normal winds can tear off your shingles and leave parts of your roof unprotected. This is a common occurrence for people who live in areas that are prone to high winds. To prevent this, ensure that your roof shingles are nailed down tightly and properly. Roof cement can also be applied through a caulking gun to keep the shingles tightly fixed.
Extremely high-speed winds are notorious for creating low-pressure zones which differ from the air inside the house. This can cause the roof to get completely sucked off the building. There’s nothing you can do to prevent the high-speed winds; however, you can apply roofing cement under your shingle tab and in areas where the shingle edges are exposed. Pay attention to the edges of your roof, as this may be a major culprit. Added to this, add construction caulking to the seams where the rafters and roof decking meet. You can also contact a roofing contractor to install special straps or clips that hold your roof firmly to the walls of your home.
Falling and Blowing Debris
Another major cause of roof damage during Acts of God occurrences is debris. If you have trees around your home or building, there is a huge chance that your roof may be affected during heavy storms. To prevent damage, pay attention to the tree’s health. You may be at risk if the tree is leaning over or has extended limbs over your roof. Address this problem by calling tree care specialists to trim the limbs and check the tree’s health. Dead trees should be fell and removed as fast as possible.
Hail Damage
Your roof is unsafe if you live in areas prone to hail storms. Large hails can significantly damage your roof. It is important to note that this type of damage cannot be prevented. However, you can avoid additional roofing problems by inspecting your roof early to address primary damages.
Regular Wear and Tear
Your roofing won’t last forever. Manufacturers often give an expected lifespan for roofing materials, with some lasting as long as 50 years. The life span of your roofing material will depend on how you have maintained it and exposure to weather elements. An excellent way to limit wear and tear is to avoid growths on your roof. Roof washing can help get rid of moss, algae, and mold.
Poor Workmanship and Cheap Materials
Unlike other damages affecting the roof, you can control this by hiring experienced roofers who have a proven track record. You can also improve the lifespan of your roof by investing in top-quality roofing materials. Consider the average lifespan of the desired roofing material and its suitability for your area before purchasing it.
