Identifying Roof Problems

Did you know that roof problems are among one of the biggest issues in construction? Fred Oakley has experience in all areas and can help identify any problems you may have.

Roof damage is not uncommon in Tennessee, however it can be a big problem if left unrepaired. You might not even be aware you have a problem! Minor leaks can cause an enormous amount of damage to the interior of your home, which can ruin ceilings, insulation and wallboard.

1. UV Rays - The sun’s UV rays can cause your roof to deteriorate over time, especially asphalt shingles. They can dry, crack and blister, coming loose from the surface or actually falling off the roof. Once this happens, there is little to protect the sheathing underneath and the roof is exposed to further damage from the elements.
2. Snow and ice  - Weather elements can definitely take its toll on your roof. As the ice and snow melts, it can make its way under the shingles and flashing and then as the water refreezes it can lift the shingles and flashing, making way for even more water to enter. 
3. Wind – Wind is a serious problem for a roof. It’s not always a storm that causes problems since even strong gusts on a sunny day can be enough to lift shingles or tear them off completely. 
4. Tree Limbs - Overhanging tree limbs can rub on a roof, abrading the surface of the shingles and wearing away the protective top layer. Branches can also fall on the roof creating even more serious damage. Tree limbs should be trimmed back away from the roof as much as possible and if a tree is close enough to pose a threat to your home, it should be removed.
5. Wildlife - Birds and other small forms of wildlife can do a lot of damage to a roof. Woodpeckers will make holes along the eaves looking for insects. Some of these holes can get quite large and leave the wood exposed to moisture that can lead to rot. Raccoons will pull up shingles and flashing looking for a way into the attic. Find ways to discourage the animals and repair any damage as soon as you notice it.
6. Insects  - Bugs aren’t just a problem for the foundation of a home but they can find their way up to the roof as well. Termites, carpenter ants and other gnawing insects will chew away and tunnel through the eaves and fascia boards around a roof. Insects are also what often attract animals in their search for food. Get rid of the insects and you may also solve the wildlife problem as well.
7. The flashing along the edge of a roof and around vents are areas where water can get in and cause damage. The caulking around vent flashing can dry out and shrink and edge flashing is prone to damage when homeowners attempt to remove ice dams or snow buildup in winter. 
8. Clogged or broken gutters/downspouts – Clogged gutters defeat the purpose of having them! Water can back up and seep into the eaves, eventually causing rot. Check gutters for broken brackets or seams and clean out debris every fall. Add screens to the top of the gutters to keep leaves and twigs out and make your job a lot easier.
9. Attic space - A poorly ventilated attic can shorten the life of a roof. If your attic is too warm in the summer, the shingles will bake from the underside and become dry and brittle.
10. Lack of roof maintenance – This is probably a roof’s worst enemy. Many problems start out as minor, such as the need to remove overhanging tree limbs or cleaning backed up gutters. When these problems are not corrected, they can create serious damage. 

Routine inspection and maintenance can extend the life of your roof which will save you a lot of money! If you feel you may have a problem with your roof or any other construction concerns in the Middle Tennessee area, call Fred Oakley Construction at 615-975-8916.