Problems with the Roof You Shouldn’t Ignore

Whether you’re planning on repairing your roof or simply re-roofing it, you’ll want to ensure that you’re aware of some of the most common roof issues you shouldn’t ignore. This includes ice dams, mold, and curled shingles, which can lead to severe damage.

Mold

No matter how old your house is, it’s a good idea to check the condition of your roof. It would help if you addressed mold on ceilings, as it can be highly damaging to your home. Fortunately, a professional roof repair service can help eliminate mold in your home.

Mold grows on surfaces that are moist and humid. It can be found on everything from old bread to shower tile grout. Often, you’ll see mold on roofs because of leaks. If your home suffers from leaks, it’s essential to fix them as soon as possible.

Mold on roofs can harm the health of those who live in the home. It can cause respiratory problems, including wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. You’ll also experience skin and eye irritation. If you experience these signs, seek immediate medical attention by contacting a doctor.

Birds

Keeping your roof free from feathered critters is a full-time job in itself. Removing or moving bird feeders and other bird-attracting equipment from the top is the best way to accomplish this. Spending money on a bird-resistant awning is a good idea to keep unwanted guests off your property.

Another important aspect of keeping birds out of the attic is considering the location of the roof hatch. This may require a rejigging of your plans. If you have a large awning, you may have to do some rearranging to accommodate the occupants. Sometimes, you may also have to remove a roofing section to accommodate a bird or two. This will also require a decent amount of patience.

Squirrels

Having squirrels or other animals in your attic can be a significant problem. They can ruin shingles, insulation, and other components of your roof. They can also be a health hazard. And if they are allowed to enter your home, they can chew electrical wires and other electrical components.

If you suspect a squirrel or other animal is in your attic, you should immediately take steps to protect your home. You might consider releasing the animal outside and then sealing any holes they leave behind. This will help prevent them from coming back.

You can use squirrel repellents, but be aware that they may be dangerous to your pets or children. You can also try natural solutions, such as hot sauce and apple cider vinegar. These repellents work by mimicking the scent of predators.

Curled Shingles

Whether you have a new roof or an old one, if you see curling or curled-up shingles on your top, you should be aware of the cause of the problem. According to many roofing companies in Phoenix, these shingles can lead to more severe issues like rot and mold if left unrepaired.

Curling roof shingles are usually caused by improper installation or poor ventilation. If your attic does not have adequate ventilation, the warm air inside your home will be trapped, which can lead to condensation and mold.

Another cause is the use of cheap nails. Many roofers use cheap pins to secure their roofs. Eventually, the shingles loosen, allowing water to seep through.

Curled shingles can also be caused by improper installation or weather conditions. For example, high winds can cause shingles to curl, especially if installed on a roof with a second layer.

Ice Dams

You may notice icicles hanging from your roof’s eaves during the cold winter. This may signal the beginning of a severe issue. Often, these icicles are caused by an ice dam. If your roof has a large ice dam, this can damage your roof, gutters, siding, and shingles.

Increasing the ventilation in your home can help prevent ice dams. This is especially true if you live in a region with heavy snowfall. You can also install a self-adhered membrane on your eaves, which will help prevent ice dams.

If mold grows under your shingles, moisture might get into your attic. This moisture can encourage mold growth in your attic if it is not adequately ventilated. If this occurs, your attic may require additional insulation.