Lower heating bills, milder weather – most homeowners eagerly anticipate spring. But along with the joys, springtime residential roof problems can arise. As you tackle spring cleaning inside, don't forget the outside, especially your roof. We'll guide you on what to watch out for this season.
The heavy snow and harsh conditions of winter can be hard on a roof. Being proactive in continuous roof maintenance can save you significant repair costs. The earlier your roof problem is identified, the less chance it will need emergency repairs. When an issue is found, it should not be ignored. Hiring a professional to inspect the roof will save time and money in the future.
9 common springtime residential roof problems
Let’s talk about the nine most common roofing problems a homeowner might encounter after the winter.
1. Leaks
Rising temperatures lead to melting snow which can lead to leaking roofs. If you notice stains on the walls or ceilings, it may be a sign that the roof is leaking. Call a trusted professional roofing company as soon as you see this problem.
2. Sagging roof
Heavy snow and ice can affect your roof’s structural integrity. Over time it can cause parts of the roof to sag. After multiple snow accumulations with little melt time in between, we always recommend clearing snow from the roof with a roof rake, especially if it has accumulated on a flat roof area.
3. Pest issues
Animals and insects begin to recover from hibernation as spring arrives. This means a lot of pest problems begin as the weather warms. And your roof is a common target for these critters.
Watch out for creatures like ants, squirrels, raccoons, termites, and birds that can damage your roof, chimney, and eaves. Use guards to protect the vulnerable parts of your roof.
4. Clogged and damaged gutters
Inspecting your gutters and downspouts ensures they are clear of debris at all times. Proper drainage prevents water from pooling on your roof. Gutters should be cleaned regularly to prevent drainage issues.
5. Trapped moisture
Older leaves and debris from the previous fall can get trapped under new plant growth that can capture moisture underneath. When the moisture is unable to evaporate it can damage the shingles underneath.
6. Failed sealants
Certain building materials contract slightly in the cold and expand slightly in the heat creating problems over time. One of the most common areas is sealants. They protect roof flashing but can crack and warp leading to gaps. This separation allows water to sneak in and damage the flashing even more.
7. Cracked membranes and underlayments
Roof membranes are layers under your shingles that are meant to keep moisture from going any further. But moisture and rapid temperature change can damage these layers.
Old membranes can wear out during the winter and lead to cracks. You might not notice these until spring rainstorms arrive. Repair these leaks right away to keep insects, rodents, and more water out.
8. Curling shingles
Shingles can wear out with time and severe weather. So spring is a great time to take a look at your shingles to see spot any that may be worn out.
9. Chimney damage
Regularly checking your chimney for cracks will ensure there isn’t any water getting into places it shouldn’t be. As snow and ice begin to melt, water can get into the cracks and cause the bricks and mortar to expand as it refreezes. This can lead to a leaky roof or a loose chimney.
Call a professional roofer you can trust to repair your roof
Your home is your largest investment. And your roof plays a very important part in protecting it. So, don't trust it to anyone.
Give JB Roofing a call at 515-554-1964 today to repair any springtime roofing problems you might encounter. We'd be happy to provide a free estimate.