If you’re a contractor, the importance of having contractors’ insurance cannot be overstated. The same is true when you’re a homeowner. While getting homeowners insurance can seem like an expense you can do without, nothing can be farther from the truth.

Homeowners insurance can come in handy, especially if you have to deal with unfortunate events like fires, hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural disasters. In some instances, however, the problems you will encounter are caused by general wear and tear as opposed to an act of nature.

Most Prevalent Roof Problems Homeowners Have to Deal With

The most common issue homeowners encounter at one point or another is roofing problems. From small leaks to significant cracks, roof problems can occur when you least expect them. Below are some of the typical roof issues homeowners face:

Roof Leaks

Hands down, roof leaks rank high in the list of routine roof problems homeowners often deal with. From broken shingles to cracked flashings, roof leaks can be attributed to various causes. Most roof leaks occur in the following places:

  • At flashing points
  • Near the chimney
  • Around gutters
  • At skylights
  • In valleys or low spots
  • Close to pipes and vents
  • Under damaged shingles

Holes and Punctures

Everything from local wildlife to foot traffic can leave puncture marks, scrapes, and huge holes in your roof. Whether caused by a contractor walking over the shingles or a woodpecker drilling holes in the eaves, damage can accumulate over the years. It can also expose underlying wood and might cause it to rot.

Blistering and Cracking

Over the years, roofs can develop ridges, blisters, and cracks. The chances of similar damage occurring will often depend on the type of root installed. For instance, built-up roofs made of several layers and cover flat surfaces are more prone to cracking and blistering.

Poor Installation

Working with poorly qualified or inexperienced roofing specialists can cost you money in the long run. Roofs that are shoddily installed can also cause molds, long-term complications, and short-life expectancy.

Shrinkage

When roof materials shrink, it might result in other issues such as cracking, deterioration, and the pulling apart of crucial parts like the flashing. Shrinkage often affects roofs covered with synthetic rubber membranes and other roof coverings.

If you want your roof inspected for signs of shrink-related damage, consider it best to work with a professional.

Poor Maintenance

Given that you attend to them early, the vast majority of roof issues can be fixed easily. However, if you bypass routine roof maintenance, you will be turning a minor concern into a major plight. If you ignore potential trouble spots, you will also be getting yourself in hot water. As a general rule of thumb, ensure you have a routine maintenance schedule in place.

Ice and Snow Damage

While not instantaneous, ice and snow can wreak havoc on your roof in the long run. Keep in mind that when snow and ice melts, it can seep underneath your shingles. If it refreezes, you’ll be in for a rude surprise as the ice underneath the roof can push against the shingles and flashing and might lift them.

When it happens, you can find more gaps where more ice and water can quickly enter. To ensure there’s no damage to your roof that will catch you by surprise, schedule routine fall and spring inspections and maintenance. Doing so can help ensure you won’t have to deal with roof problems that will demand emergency or costly repairs.

Clogged Gutters

If your gutters are broken, clogged, or defective, water can back up into the system. In a similar scenario, it might also seep into the eaves where it can cause the roof to rot. To prevent damage, check your gutters routinely for debris as well as broken parts. Installing screens on your gutter openings is also a good idea as it can prevent leaves and twigs from getting in.

Tree Damage

It goes without saying: you’ll be in trouble if a tree limb crashes into your roof. However,  even something as seemingly harmless as a tree branch rubbing against your roof on a consistent basis can be enough to scratch your roof or wear down its top layer.

At the very least, it is ideal if trees that are near your roof are trimmed, so no limbs are resting on the roofs. It is also a good idea to remove any trees that can jeopardize the integrity of your roof.

Conclusion

To help maximize roof life, ensure you work with professionals and have a routine maintenance schedule in place. You need to also bear in mind that as your roof ages, it can become more prone to problems. However, as long as you address any issues as early as possible, you will be able to boost your roof’s longevity dramatically.