Roofing is constructed from sturdy materials, and for much of the time, it endures the elements with little detrimental effect. However, at times it will require repairs. Here are several issues you may come across with your home.
Flashing
One of the major natural elements that can endanger roofing is rain. Thus, it needs to be tightly sealed and secure at every point. A particularly vulnerable area is the joints between a protruding element, such as a chimney or vent, and the roof. These joins are covered with flashing material, which is often metal sheeting. This connecting membrane can rust or develop holes and allow rainwater inside the roof cavity, rotting timber and plaster.
Guttering
The rain flows down the roof cladding, along the gutters and through the downpipes away from your house. Sometimes, you'll come across problems with guttering. Over time, it can sag or fall away from the roof, especially if a branch falls on top and loosens the attachments. Some gutters consist of separate sections that connect together, and these joins can become loose. Alternatively, the channels can clog with leaves and require clearing out. Otherwise, rain can overflow the gutters or seep through holes to stream down the external walls, rotting window frames.
Cladding
A tree branch falling on your roof not only possibly damages the guttering but also the roof tiles or metal sheets. The impact may crack tiles, and you'll need to replace them. Or it could dislodge or dent metal sections. A vulnerable spot for metal sheeting is where they overlap. These areas can hold moisture, which encourages rust.
Timber Supporting Frames
If your roof has been leaking for ages, the water may have seeped into the timber beams, rafters and battens underneath the cladding, holding it up. If the moisture damage is long term, the roof skeleton might need replacing or repair. This can be costly, so it's crucial to fix roof leaks promptly.
Thus, various roof areas can suffer damage and require attention. The flashing can decay from moisture exposure. The roof cladding and guttering may be knocked loose by falling tree branches or by other objects flung against the roof in strong winds. At times, exposure to the elements triggers decay. If you catch problems early, you may prevent moisture from reaching the timber beams and the structure underneath. Once the decay reaches those elements, costs can escalate as you have to repair different parts of the building.
Talk to roofers in your area to learn more.
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