Roofs are the buffer between families and the elements. They also keep the home insulated and can improve the HVAC system's energy efficiency. If you have problems with your roof, it's important to hire a professional roofing contractor to fix it and prevent further damage.

1. Improper Installation

The first problem homeowners can run into is hiring the wrong contractor and getting a poor installation. Improper installation can lead to peeling, cracking, and missing shingles. It can cause a loss in energy efficiency if it is poorly insulated. The underlayment can shrink from temperature fluctuations and crack, which allows moisture to enter the home. If the roof isn't graded properly, water can pool and lead to leaks or the growth of harmful mold. All of these problems can be addressed simply by hiring the right roofer for your new roof installation.

If you have problems with a newly installed roof, use your warranty as soon as you can. The time limit on roof warranties usually lasts a couple of years, so pay attention to your window of opportunity.

2. Leaks

Leaks are the most common problem for roofs. Water can get under shingles and through punctures. It will wreak havoc on the home's walls, ceilings, floors, electrical appliances, furniture, and more. As the seasons change, temperatures can range wildly. The fluctuation causes the materials that make up your roof to expand and contract. A common issue caused by these changes is nail popping; the constant expansion and contraction force nails underneath shingles to pop out and push up shingles, or punch through them completely. You can also get bulging or heaving or roof shingles. Pay attention to your roof year-round and look for these problems. A well-installed roof will be able to handle temperature changes for a long time, but once you see issues it's time to call roofing services.

3. Falling Limbs

Falling limbs and other debris can crash onto the roof and create punctures. If the limb is big enough, it can cause significant structural damage to the home and cause harm to the people inside. Storms can send weakened tree limbs crashing down onto your roof. Consult with an arborist to make sure the trees near your home are healthy. If any pose a threat to your property, get them removed as soon as possible. After heavy storms, inspect your roof to see if any tree branches fell.

4. Clogged Gutters

The gutters are crucial to proper drainage. If they're clogged, water can build up and leak into the home and cause damage to the foundation. Debris like branches and leaves can create obstacles to proper drainage. Animals may form nests as the warmer weather turns and they seek to make new homes. You can inspect your gutters if you have a ladder that can safely reach your roof's edge. Look for any debris and clear it away. If you cannot reach your gutters, call a roofing contractor to take care of it for you.

6. Age

Asphalt roofs can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance, but eventually, wear and tear will cause problems that call for a new roof installation. The climate and sun beat down on the roof year-round. Common signs of aging are blisters, bulging, missing or cracked shingles, peeling, and fading. The damage will lead to a loss of energy efficiency and leaks that ruin the interior of your home. If you notice signs of aging, it's time to call a roofing contractor to replace your roof. While this is a significant investment, the ROI is high. According to Zillow, an asphalt roof replacement can give homeowners a 68.2% return on investment. It increases the home's property value, saves you money on repairs, and renews insurance and the warranty.

Every homeowner will face problems with their roof at some point. The severity of the problem is largely dictated by the installation and maintenance the roof receives. For a high-quality roofing contractor that knows their stuff, contact Rodriguez Roofing Company. We service the Houston area and can provide installation, maintenance, and repairs for residential and commercial roofing. Whether you have asphalt shingles, tile roofing, metal roofs, or single membrane, we have the knowledge, tools, and professionals to handle any problem.