Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Know When To Ask For Roofing Help!


In all honesty, a roofing system is the one part of a building most affected when it comes to securing occupants from extreme and diverse weather conditions. Every day this valuable covering protects side walls, windows, masonry, foundations, and other essential structures from the harsh elements of nature and works to combat the rising cost of energy while creating an energy-efficient and water-tight building.
It is vital to be aware of a roof's function and keep it in good working condition; otherwise, the entire system could fail, causing many problems. If such a failure does occur, it is crucial to look for common red flags to know if this is when professional intervention is required and to ask for help before severe damage occurs.
Visual Inspection
In order to detect visible and concealed signs of damage, a thorough inspection must be carried out; any signs of damage could signal that the roof requires the help of a professional. Proper maintenance and regular inspections are needed to avoid premature failure and unwanted repairs.
Such activity is imperative to prolong and extend the service life of the entire roofing system. Inspections should be conducted to identify what repairs may be needed and to determine the proper course of action to maintain a long- lasting overhead structure.
Warning Signs
If any of the following signs are detected during a routine inspection, it would be advisable to call in an expert to make necessary repairs.
  • Damaged Flashing - This usually happens due to bad weather, strong winds, or incorrectly installed roofing. The most common site for this to happen is the chimney. Loosening or deterioration of flashing is the primary reason for water penetration.
  • Missing Shingles - It is essential to note that strong winds can blow shingles off of a roof, so missing shingles are a red flag that there may be extensive damage concealed underneath this material. If neglected, further exposure to outside elements could lead to premature failure.
  • Curling - When this happens on the corners of shingles, it may be a result of moisture, improper nailing patterns, and inadequate attic ventilation. Water will penetrate and damage the underlying structures. In the worst cases, material may be blown off by high winds or curling shingles may be brittle and require immediate replacement.
  • Thermal Splitting - Common problems of asphalt fiber shingles are splitting and cracking. Whether the splitting is vertical or horizontal, the roof is susceptible to water entry which lessens its ability to resist the effects of climatic conditions and negatively impact its lifespan.
  • Extensive Granulation - Granules loosen naturally during installation, which does not affect the service life of the material; however, if this becomes extensive due to the aging process or any other reasons, and the fiber mat is exposed, the affected portions must be removed or replaced. Exposed areas usually wear faster compared to intact material.
  • Ceiling Spots - Coffee-colored stains seen on the ceiling are a positive sign of leaks. By virtue of gravity, water will find its way into the interior of a home as well as its foundation, causing adverse effects to the building and disrupting the interior comfort level.
All of the red flags listed above can result in leaks and cause severe damage if not given prompt attention.
The roof is a very expensive investment and must be kept in good working condition to perform its primary function. Knowing how to recognize red flags can help save a lot of future problems. When visible destruction and damage is apparent during an inspection, it is the right time to ask for the help of a professional roofer before damage spreads and becomes more extensive!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6978128

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