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10 Common Problems Found During Roof Inspections In Dayton, OH
Is your roof hiding a secret? It might be! Dayton’s fluctuating weather conditions can take a toll on your roof over time, which is why regular inspections are important. But what exactly are inspectors looking for?
In this blog post, I will discuss the 10 most common roof problems found during inspections in Dayton, OH, in hopes of showing how important inspections are to unveiling damage in your home. So, whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or just bought your first home, keep reading! This guide will help you keep your roof healthy and your family safe.
The Importance of Regular Roof Inspections for Homeowners
Before describing the common problems that are found during a roof inspection, I want to stress the significance of getting regular roof inspections for your home.
Inspections are important because they catch problems that typically go unnoticed, preventing them from creating severe forms of damage in your roof. Inspecting it regularly helps you avoid unexpected costs, as it’s easier and cheaper to fix smaller problems than it is to make big repairs, or a full-blown replacement.
If you have homeowners insurance, inspections prevent you from losing coverage when it comes time to file a claim. This is because many insurance companies will not cover the cost of a roof repair or replacement for a roof that is damaged due to neglect.
Common Roof Problems Uncovered During Inspections
Here are some of the most common problems that are uncovered during regular roofing inspections.
#1 Clogged Gutters
Often overlooked, your gutters are more than just exterior decor, they’re essential to the health and longevity of your roofing system. Your gutter system will typically be clogged with leaves and twigs, and shingle granules. Without an inspection to notice the clogs, water will begin to sit on the surface of the roof, pooling under the shingles and leading to serious water damage and harm. Also, overflowing gutters bring a variety of issues, like damaged fascia boards and even flooded basements. We always suggest homeowners give their gutters a thorough cleaning at least twice a year.
#2 Sagging Roof
This issue not only poses significant risks, but it’s also an obvious sign that your roof could be nearing the end of its lifespan. Sagging roofs often occur due to improper material installation, a deteriorated roof deck, or heavy weight on the roof such as ice dams.
#3 Two Layers of Shingles
During our inspections, it’s surprisingly common to come across roofs with two, or even three layers of shingles. While some homeowners see this as a cost-effective solution, it’s often a shortcut that leads to more problems in the long run. Not only is this practice against many building codes in Ohio and other states, but it also brings about significant challenges when trying to repair the top layer of shingles. Plus, when new shingles are layered over old ones, the added weight can strain the roof’s structure, leading to sagging.
#4 Damaged Shingles
During our inspections, one of the most frequent issues we encounter is shingle damage. This type of damage, which includes cracked or missing shingles, poses a significant threat to the integrity of your home. Cracked shingles are often a telltale sign of hail impact. On the other hand, we find that curling shingles are typically caused by two main factors: poor attic ventilation or improperly placed nails. Poor ventilation in the attic can lead to excessive heat buildup, which in turn causes the shingles to warp and curl. High nails, or nails that are not properly set in place, can also lead to curling as they don’t secure the shingle flat against the roof.
#5 Damaged Flashing
Flashing, a material that is typically made of metal, is used to direct water away from critical areas of the roof, such as the edges, valleys, and around features like chimneys and skylights. When flashing is damaged, bent, or rusted, it can lead to leaks and water damage. Inspectors often find that exposure to severe weather, oxidation, or improper installation are the culprits behind flashing deterioration. Cracks, holes, or flashing becoming loose, are clear indicators that the waterproofing integrity of the roof is compromised.
#6 Moisture and Leaks
In our roof inspections, finding moisture build-up in the attics or other areas of your roof is quite common. Signs like water stains, damp insulation, and mold growth often point to underlying roof issues. Interestingly, leaks don’t always make themselves visible within the interior of your home, many can stay concealed within the roofing system, leading to unseen rot and mold, and slow structural degradation.
#7 Algae Growth
We have seen algae growth on roofs that do not get direct sunlight. As algae thrive in damp environments often providing ugly blackish-green streaks on your shingles. Though they don’t pose direct damage to roofs, their presence signifies excessive moisture, which potentially generates rot and mildew. Moreover, algae discoloration may compromise your home’s aesthetic appeal.
#8 Plumbing Vent Flaws
When homeowners call us for inspections, often the culprit behind leaks is the plumbing vent pipe. Faulty plumbing vents can cause a range of issues, from attracting debris to providing entryways for destructive pests. Regular inspections are key to checking if pipe collars are loose or if the rubber boots around vent pipes are crack-free, helping to stop leaks before they worsen.
#9 Exposed Fasteners
During inspections, we often find that exposed fasteners along the roof are a common issue. Fasteners hold things like gutters and metal panels in place. They can act as entry points for water, leading to problems like rotting frames and stained ceilings. It’s important to check if the screws have rubber washers, which are essential for preventing decay and handling temperature changes. Over time, these washers can corrode and become brittle, making them less effective and allowing water to seep through.
#10 Downspout Issues
While homeowners may clean their gutters to prevent clogs, we often find that effective rainwater drainage requires downspout assessment as well. Misaligned downspouts can cause water to flow back toward the house’s foundation, leading to potential basement flooding.
Don’t Let Your Roof Become A Disaster!
At AlphaOne Exteriors, we believe a healthy home starts with a healthy roof. That’s why we offer free roof inspections throughout Dayton and the surrounding areas of Ohio. Our expert inspectors will spot hidden problems before they become expensive repairs. Leaks, missing shingles, and clogged gutters can lead to thousands in damage, so we’ll catch them early, saving you money and peace of mind.
With over 20 years of experience, our team is proficient at providing detailed roof inspections. We can even repair or replace your roof if necessary and provide options on roofing materials that will meet your needs. Stop waiting, and schedule your free inspection today by giving us a call at (937) 401-3405!