The roofing system is one of the most important parts of any structure. When it fails, it results in a cascade of other problems. One of the best ways to protect it is to understand the most common causes of roof damage so that it can be prevented and spotted in its early stages. “When most people think of roof damage, they are thinking of damage to the shingles,” explains Simon Elmadawi, owner of Apollo Roofing Company, one of San Rafael’s top residential roofing companies. “But a roof is actually a system composed of several parts and the condition of the outermost layer can impact the condition of the whole. Knowing what causes damage is important for protecting the entire building.”
Top Causes of Roof Damage
The roof is a complex system designed to protect the structure from the elements. Even small damage to this structure can lead to many other subsequent damages. Hence, it is important to understand and address the common causes of damage through inspection, maintenance, and repair. It is highly recommended to call a San Rafael roofing company for a yearly inspection or at the first signs of damage.
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Weather
A home or building owner can not do much about the weather, but it is helpful to understand that weather causes roofing materials to degrade over time. UV rays can fade and weaken many materials, and wind and heavy rain can damage or loosen shingles or lift the edges of the roof, causing the nails and flashing to become loose. Water from precipitation is one of the most commonly recognized.
Lack of Maintenance
Little, no, or improper maintenance is another major factor in causing roof damage. Typically, home and building owners think of roof repairs as maintenance. Roof maintenance is the process of inspecting the roof for any potential problems and correcting the issue before it causes damage to additional parts of the roofing system and building structure. When a roof does not receive proper regular care, little problems worsen and lead to roof damage.
Birds, Rodents, and Other Animals
It is easy to underestimate the damage that animals can cause to a roofing system. Birds can peck at the roof looking for food. Nesting activities can also cause degradation. Rodents are also attracted to roofs and can cause tremendous damage as they try to make entrance into the attic and inside of the structure. Even raccoons and cats can cause shingles to become loose as they traverse the structure.
Trees
Nearby trees are also a common source of roof damage. Leaves can gather on the roof and in gutters, causing water backup and allowing the water to enter the roof system. The branches from nearby trees can fall and puncture or batter the roof in the wind causing shingles to become loose.
Age
People very rarely think of the roof’s age as a cause of roof damage. The roof, however, is a system and not just the outermost layer of roofing material (commonly shingles). When this outer layer ages, it degrades, leading to exposure and leaks. Once the roof starts to leak, the water can damage the other layers of the roofing system, such as the underlayment, roof deck, and insulation.
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Commercial and Residential Roofing Contractor | San Rafael, CA
Apollo Roofing Company is a leading residential and commercial roofing company serving San Rafael and the surrounding communities. As a trusted local roofing service, the company is recognized for its focus on customer service, quality products, skilled installation, and upholding industry best practices.
For more information about their expansive services or to contact the company to discuss your roofing needs, call (925) 701-9136.
Apollo Roofing Company
584 LAS COLINAS RD
SAN RAFAEL CA 94903-2444
