We’re used to dealing with problems inside the home on a near constant basis. As anybody who has ever owned a property will know all too well, houses are almost like living entities. They creak and groan, strain and age. They might not be made of flesh and bone, but their insides still need a lot of love and care in order to stay in tip top condition. It is easy forget, however, that the roof is an important part of this routine as well.
The health of roof tiles, shingles, and siding is often neglected, for long periods, because we take it for granted that these components will always be there. They are designed to be strong and sturdy and they’re built to last. Without them, there would be no home at all. Yet, they’re not invincible; your roof is subject to age and damage from the weather. You need to keep a close eye on it, so that when it comes time for a roof restoration, you’re fully prepared.
Keep reading for advice on how to spot the signs of a weary roof and start making plans for restoration today.
1. Clawed or Curled Shingles
You’ll notice that, as the shingles on the roof age, they start to warp and curl at the edges. This is something that can’t be entirely avoided, because it is an inevitable consequence of time, but the damage can be limited with regular maintenance and care. Once the curling is extensive, however, you may need replacements. Clawed shingles lift and come loose from the roof, so they allow water to make their way inside. This can cause serious problems for the interior of the home, particularly in winter.
2. Broken or Missing Tiles
Keep a close eye out for missing slates and tiles, especially after bouts of intense wind or rain. Sometimes, driving gales can knock tiles right off the roof and this leaves a hole. Rain and draughts then enter the breach and start to make the house a very uncomfortable place. Therefore, missing tiles do need to be addressed quickly. If there are a lot of bare patches or breaches, you’re much better off investing in a full restoration, rather than creating a patchwork of old and new tiles.
3. Degraded Flashings
As flashings age, they start to act a little strangely. They can be unpredictable and even begin to curl and lift off the roof without warning. Once every couple of months – perhaps more in the winter – inspect the flashings around rakes, stacks, eaves, valleys, and chimneys. If you suspect damage, give them a little push. The flashing should not move much. If it does, the underside is likely degraded and not far from breaking altogether.
4. Buckled Tiles/Shingles
Buckled tiles are easy to spot, because the effect creates a wave like distortion that stretches vertically up the roof slope. Once again, it signals a structural weakness and it can be difficult to tell how long the materials have before they give out. While it is possible to repair only sections of a roof at a time, rather than the whole expanse, severely damaged structures are in urgent need of a high quality restoration.
The Value of Vigilance and Regular Maintenance
A good roof will last many decades. It might even end up being an investment that you pass on to your children, so it is worth spending a little more for quality. You can make sure that your replacement or restored roof stays strong by inspecting throughout the year and addressing signs of trouble quickly. If you spot a broken tile, replace it. If you can see damaged flashings, call in a reliable roofing contractor. Don’t leave the problem to deteriorate.
