The Importance of Roof Inspections

Obviously, the roof is one of the most important components of your home because without it, you’d be sitting in 5 feet of snow, rain, leaves and other debris. Because it takes a beating from all these elements in order to protect the interior, it is important that it’s regularly inspected for proper functioning and any necessary maintenance.

This is especially imperative in climates like Connecticut and the rest of the Northeast, because this area experiences every type of weather, including intense snowstorms, extreme heat and heavy summer rain. Exposure to these conditions repeated throughout the year can slowly and steadily wear down your roof. First, here are some factors that can cause wear and tear on your roof.

Sunshine: Homeowners usually are surprised by this one. But think about the large amount of heat the sun gives off and how that is constantly beating onto your roof. And if your roof is black, which most are, this only attracts even more of this heat. High temperatures will cause asphalt shingles to curl up and crack, leaving weak spots in your roof.

Snow & Ice: Snow is heavy and ice is heavier. If a winter is particularly harsh one year and a lot of build-up begins to accumulate, the weight could be too much for your roof to take. Your roof is even more likely to buckle if the sun has created weak spots or missing shingles in your roof, as stated above. Even if your roof is sturdy enough to support massive amounts of snow, cracks in your drywall and attic frame could still occur.

Rain & Water: Rain accumulation clearly comes from huge spring and summer storms, but water build-up can often come as a surprise. If an ice dam forms unnoticed during the winter and melts during the spring, this can trap that water on your roof and get under your shingles and into your attic. If moisture settles in one place for too long, mold, mildew and algae can begin to grow and rapidly spread to the rest of your home.

Moisture: As we just said, mold and mildew is found too often in roofs and often expands throughout the home at an alarming rate. Wooden shingles, or even wooden structures beneath a different weakened roof material, are prime homes for algae and other organic attackers. Once your roof allows moisture in, excess water and moisture can lead to wood rot, which is mostly irreparable, and demands repair to your roof structure.

Inspections: Roofing contractors recommend that you have your roof inspected at least twice per year, once in the spring after a tough winter, and once in the fall when the summer heat disappears to make sure no common roofing problems are present. These inspections can be done professionally or by yourself, and if you choose to climb up on your roof, make sure you follow these important safety guidelines.

Advanced Window Systems would be happy to help you with any of your roofing needs! Whether it is a simple roof inspection or entire roof repair, we offer the highest quality products and craftsmanship! Call us today at 860-829-8044 for a FREE in-home estimate.