3 Common Roofing Problems (and How to Fix Them)

March 30, 2020

by Brandon Heins

A roof protects your most precious asset – your home. Homeowners pay, on average, about $7,300 for a replacement roof. That’s a significant expense.

If you take good care of your roof, it’ll last longer, saving you money long-term. How do you take care of it? By identifying common roof problems and fixing them before they progress.

Here are three of the most common roofing problems and how you can fix them.

1. Problems with Gutters

Gutters are important for the health of your roof and home’s foundation, especially in the Waukesha area. The gutter system catches water and directs it away from the roof and foundation. Leaves and other debris can clog your gutters.

If your gutters clog, water backs up onto the roof and leaks over the side of the gutter. Water leaking over the gutters can even compromise the structural integrity of your home’s foundation.

The good news is you can fix clogged gutters yourself.

Inspect the gutters. Look for deterioration and holes. Remove any debris and make sure your downspouts are clear.

2. Roof Shingles

You might have roofing problems with the shingles if you’ve got a shingle roof system. This is another area you can inspect yourself. If you’re in the Waukesha area, make sure you inspect after extreme weather.

Look for missing or damaged shingles. After high winds, a common problem is lifted shingles. If you notice any missing or damaged shingles, get that area of the roof repaired as soon as possible.

Repairing small problems now prevents bigger problems later.

Look for discoloration of your shingles. Are they green or black? If so, you’ve got mold or algae growing on the roof.

Mold causes deterioration of the shingles. Never powerwash your shingles since that may damage them. It’s okay to spray a bleach solution but follow all label instructions.

It’s best to keep mold off and away from your home.

3. Flashing Problems

Flashing is steel or aluminum sheeting that seals the edges of your roof system. There’s flashing around your chimney and anywhere else the roof is interrupted by a system.

The flashing prevents water from entering your roof and home. Areas of flashing are potential areas of water penetration after extreme weather.

Check the flashing on a regular basis. Check around the chimney, dormers, and skylights. Look around vents and other areas of potential penetration.

Identify any problems and call a Waukesha-area professional at Heins Contracting if necessary.

Fix Common Roofing Problems for a Longer-Lasting Roof

Fix common roofing problems now and enjoy a longer-lasting roof. Your roof covers one of your biggest assets, don’t forget about it!

Do regular inspections and inspect after severe or extreme weather.

Look for clogged or damaged gutters and clogged downspouts. Inspect your shingles and keep them free of mold and algae. Check all the flashing for water penetration.

If you find that your roof is unable to be repaired, you can look into Rapid Roof Remover for an easy way to get started on a new roof.

Do you need help with your roof? Are you in Waukesha?

Give us a call to see how Heins Contracting can help!