Originally posted on https://www.mysignatureroofing.com/what-are-the-most-common-residential-roof-problems-in-boise-idaho/

 

The most important part of your Boise home isn’t your newly-renovated kitchen, your living room filled with family photos, or the bedroom where you get some much-needed sleep every night.

Instead, the most important part of your house is what protects all of those things: your roof.

However, most people never even stop to think about their roofs until the signs of a problem appear.

Don’t let common roof problems catch you off guard, and certainly don’t put off addressing the issue as soon as is possible.

Remember: the longer you ignore these issues, the worse they’re going to get.

Read on to learn more about some of the most frequent roofing problems and understand how you can recognize the signs of an issue as soon as possible.

Then, we’ll let you know more about how the services we offer can help you to repair, maintain, and if needed, even replace your roof completely.

 

1. A LEAKING ROOF

If you live in the Boise, Idaho area, then you’ve certainly experienced your fair share of rainstorms — and perhaps leaky roofs as a consequence of the rainfall.

Unfortunately, many homeowners think that the best solution to the most common of all roof problems is to simply place a bucket under the leak until the rain stops, then completely ignore the problem until the next rainstorm.

But doing so isn’t the right move at all — and it goes far beyond how much those constant dripping noises can drive you crazy.

When your roof is leaking, it’s often a sign of damaged shingles/tiles or even broken flashing. Yes, it’s possible that a storm damaged your home’s roof, but these leaks might also be a sign of normal wear and tear.

If you suspect that your roof has a leak, look near your chimney, around your gutters and flashing points, and even in the areas close to your pipes and vents.

Of course, wet spots, discoloration, and damaged wallpaper or paint are the most obvious signs that your roof has sprung a leak.

Don’t ignore the issue, as water damage can destroy your foundation, make a perfect environment for termites and other creatures, and expose your family to the health risks of mold and mildew.

 

2. POOLS OF WATER ON THE ROOF

In addition to the standard leaks and drips, pools of water that gather on your roof can cause even more water damage to your home.

This is especially common in flat roofs or in roofs that have divots.

And if that water freezes or stays there for a long time?

The weight of the water will cause your roof to sag, increase the likelihood of major leaks, and wear down your roof much faster than normal. Talk to a proven roofing expert about how the right gutter system and metal flashing can help to properly drain the water off your roof so it never has the chance to pool in the first place.

 

3. DAMAGE FROM TREES

Everyone knows that you’ll definitely need to call a roof repair professional if a tree falls onto your house.

But far fewer people are aware of the fact that trees, especially ones with large or damaged branches, can do daily damage to your roof that quickly adds up to a serious problem.

When branches rub up against or even rest on your roof, it can easily knock the flashing or loose shingles/tiles off the roof — which damages your yard in addition to being a serious safety hazard.

Make sure you keep your trees trimmed, and get rid of any branches that look like they’re at risk of falling on your roof.

 

4. MISSING SHINGLES

What’s another big sign that you’re dealing with roof issues?

Missing shingles.

The best way to know if you’re losing shingles if often to walk around your front and back yard and keep your eyes on the ground. In some cases, you may actually be able to spot gaps from missing shingles on top of your roof. If your roof looks uneven or like it’s sagging, your shingles/the asphalt may have eroded altogether.

However, this is much more than just an aesthetic issue.

It’s also a sign that your shingles likely need to be replaced due to age or wear. You don’t want to leave yourself vulnerable to a leak.

In addition to missing shingles, make sure to keep your eyes out for any lifted shingles, flashing, and tiles. You need to either nail them back down or replace them entirely as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your roof.

 

5. SHRINKING AND CRACKING

Especially if your roof material isn’t the most weather-resistant option, you may deal with roof expansion and shrinkage. This can quickly cause blistering, cracking, deterioration, and even ridges.

This can cause serious structural problems to your home, can cause the roof to sag, and can get out of control quite quickly. Especially if your roof uses synthetic rubber, you may be even more susceptible to shrinkage.

 

6. DIY DISASTERS

We’ve all enjoyed our fair share of laughs from disastrous DIY home improvement failures, but when it comes to your roof, these problems are no laughing matter.

First, you’re putting your safety at risk every time you get up on your roof and aren’t exactly sure what you’re doing. It’s just not worth risking your life or dealing with the consequences of an injury.

Additionally, you likely don’t know which tools and materials to use, which means that in addition to wasting your money, your repairs simply aren’t going to be effective.

Don’t attempt to fix things on your own. Just let a professional handle things from the start.

 

7. PROBLEMS FROM SNOW AND ICE

Another one of the most common roofing problems that many Idaho homeowners have to deal with is the damage that ice and snow can cause.

Especially during a cold winter where snow remains piled up on the roof for a while, and where icicles form and linger, you need to do the best you can to keep things under control.

First of all, eventually all that snow is going to melt — which means potentially lots of water damage if you have any cracks and least. And if that water refreezes once it’s run through the cracks? You’re in serious trouble, as it usually makes your roof shingles lift.

Additionally, the weight of the snow and ice can pull down your roof and weigh down your gutters, causing serious damage.

That’s why it’s so key to have your roof properly maintained before the winter season hits.

 

8. IMPROPER ROOF MAINTENANCE

The famous phrase “prevention is the best cure” exists for a reason.

Depending on its materials and your climate, your roof could last from anywhere between 20 and 50 years — but only if you take proper care of it.

We strongly suggest that you have professionals inspect your roof at least two times every year, during the spring and the fall. To make sure you stick with your maintenance plan, work with a company that will help you to set up a standard inspection schedule.

After a storm or a particularly windy day, inspect your roof for any signs of damage. Also, take a look at your gutters and check for excessive roof granules.

Above all, the moment you notice a problem, deal with it.

If you don’t, not only will you put your roof at risk of an early replacement, but you’ll also end up having to spend much more than you would have if you’d taken care of things sooner.

 

RELY ON US TO HANDLE THESE ROOF PROBLEMS — AND MUCH MORE

If you live in or around the Boise area and have encountered any of these roof problems, we hope this post has helped you to understand the serious consequences of ignoring them.

Even problems that seem minor can quickly spiral out of control if you don’t take care of them quickly. Never attempt to handle the situation on your own, no matter how “simple” you think it might seem.

Instead, rely on our incredible team of roofing professionals to help you get things back under control.

We have over 20 years of experience within the roofing industry, and we’re invested in the Boise community as a whole.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services or to schedule your estimate and inspection.

Don’t let roofing problems damage your home and cost you half your savings. Instead, be proactive by letting us fix your commercial or residential roof.