Homeowners are usually blissfully unaware that their roofs, the structures that withstand decades of abuse from the elements, more often than not need regular maintenance and repairs for issues that are not visible to the naked eye.
Composite roofs usually consist of three types of shingles: laminate, architectural, and three-tab composition shingles. Asphalt shingles, which have replaced traditional wood, flagstone, slate, metal and plastic shingles, require far less maintenance than their predecessors, but need to be inspected for leaks now and again. Composite shingle roofs occasionally need to be repaired. The following are six of the most common issues that affect these types of roofs:
Leaks — When you need urgent roof repair due to consistent leaking, a tarp may need to be installed over your roof. This temporary solution is achieved using a procedure which involves using nails to hold this tarp down, which means that additional holes will be drilled into the roof.
Age — As asphalt-based products, composite shingle roofs will naturally age, due to continuous exposure to light and heat from the sun. The asphalt within its composition, when exposed to excessive heat and light, will dry out, becoming brittle and developing cracks. Granules washing off from the roof and into gutters, as well as shingles curling or bending, are obvious signs of natural aging. When the shingles deteriorate due to age, the roof usually needs to be replaced. Patch repairs are also possible, but the result will not provide long-term durability. These partial treatments do not come with warranties, and they are unable to prevent the rest of the roof from deteriorating.
Improper installation — New roofs which were installed no more than ten years ago should not be vulnerable to leaking. When this happens and the installers cannot be reached, it is best to request professional inspection and maintenance services.
Displaced shingles — Adverse weather events may cause shingles to fall off the roof. Depending on the insurance company, the costs of repairing these damages may be partially or fully covered. The type of repair will depend on the affected area, its size, and the extent of the damage.
Displaced hips and ridges — These roof components are important to the over-all esthetics and structure of the roof, and displacements caused by weather events should be repaired immediately.
Damaged wood — Roof leaks may be due to damaged wood at the fascia or eve of the roof. This is characteristic of older roofs, and can only be resolved by replacing either the entire roof, or a complete section of it. Alternatively, replacing the wood can provide some short-term benefits, but the cost-effectiveness of the first approach makes it much more desirable.
If you’re currently experiencing any of the issues described above, or if you would simply like to prevent any damage from occurring, please don’t hesitate to contact Springtree Restoration for professional advice and guidance on composite roof repair, no matter how urgent or severe the damage may be.