The roof of a home is the first line of defense against the elements. Making sure that your roof is ready to protect your home is of utmost importance to any homeowner. But, what should you be looking for? Here are the most at-risk areas of your home’s roof.
At-Risk Areas of Your Roof
Eaves
Eaves are the bottom and underside edges of a roof. TLeaking can happen if water runs up under the first shingle or behind the fascia. This can be tricky to spot, as there isn’t always a visible seeping leak. Over time, leaks can damage the wood of your eaves, as well as lead to a sagging roof or rotting, water-damaged fascia.
Ridge Vent
Does your roof have a vent at the very top peak? If so, you will want to inspect that multiple times a year. One-piece metal vents will leak over time and need to be replaced. Houses with an attic lend themselves well to checking for this type of damage from the inside. Wet or stained wood means your ridge vent should be replaced.
Valleys
Your roof’s valleys are another potential vulnerable spot. The place where the two faces of your roof meet, the valleys of your roof are also where water will naturally run. If there are any holes or damaged areas, water will easily get past your shingles and into your home. Watch out for dips, bulges, and cracks in the shingles. If you have attic access, this is another area you should make sure to inspect.
Flashing
Anywhere metal is used to make vertical surfaces watertight, leaks are possible. Flashing is used around chimneys and skylights, and any time the roof connects to a wall. Flashing needs to be properly installed to protect your home. If it isn’t installed properly, water will be able to get underneath the metal, making it no longer waterproof. Look for flashing that is misshapen or has come loose from the wall, as well as leaks inside your home.
Pipe Boots
Lastly, you will want to check the rubber boots that are used to seal vent pipes on your roof. Eventually, the rubber will become brittle and crack, allowing leaks. You should replace any pipe boots that are 10 years old or older, as well as any that show signs of cracking or damage.
Need Help? Call Guardian Roofs Today!
Roofs come in all shapes and sizes. Each roof is going to have it’s own vulnerabilities, some of which may get overlooked by a non-professional inspection. If you feel like you may have a roof issue, or just want a professional to come out and take a look for you, call Guardian Roofs today! Roof issues don’t go away on their own, and can usually get worse if left untreated. At Guardian Roofs, we have over 35 years of experience that we would love to use in helping your family’s home.