13 Common Roof Problems & Their Solutions

The roof acts as a line of defense and protects the home from external elements like dust, wind, and UV rays. Having a well-kept roof is crucial for protecting your home from these elements and for maintaining your property’s value. However, even the best-built roofs can encounter issues over time. 

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, our skilled roofers successfully resolve roof-related issues through efficient repair and durable replacements. In the Pittsburgh area, the roofing problems homeowners face are generally the same. In this blog post, we'll explore some common roof problems and their solutions to prevent costly repairs.

Roof Sagging

Roof sagging is a common issue that can occur for various reasons, including structural defects, excessive weight, or aging of the roofing materials. When a roof starts to sag, it can create an unsightly appearance and compromise the structural integrity of the entire building.

Solution

To address roof sagging, it's crucial to identify and address the cause immediately. If the issue is related to structural defects or excessive weight load, reinforcing or replacing the affected roof components may be necessary. If the sagging is due to aging materials, a complete roof replacement might be the best solution. 

Animal Nests

This is another major issue that can affect the integrity and appearance of your roof. These unwanted guests can create a real mess on roofs and can damage the roofing materials. 

Solution

Look around for the areas where the pests are climbing onto or into the structure of your roof, such as holes, gaps, or cracks in the roof or around vents and chimneys. Then, remove the existing nests from your roof and seal the areas. Call a professional if you don’t want to do this by yourself. They can safely and effectively remove the pests and treat the area to prevent future infestations.

Lifted Drip Edge

The metal flashing installed along the roof's edge to direct water into the gutters is called the drip edge. However, if the drip edge becomes loose or lifted, it can cause water to bypass the gutters and potentially damage the roof's fascia board or siding.

Solution

To repair the drip edge, the compromised sections need to be properly resecured or replaced. This may involve removing the affected pieces, preparing the surfaces, and reinstalling new drip edge flashing. Proper installation and sealing are crucial to prevent future lifting and water intrusion issues.

Incorrect HVAC Installation

HVAC units, if not installed properly, can lead to roof problems. If the unit is not properly secured or if the roof penetrations are not properly sealed, it can create potential entry points for water and cause leaks or moisture damage.

Solution

To address HVAC installation issues, it's recommended to have a professional inspect the unit's placement and roof penetrations. Any necessary adjustments or resealing should be done to ensure the HVAC unit is securely mounted and all roof penetrations are properly sealed to prevent water intrusion.

Read More, "Flat Roof Problems & Solutions"

Improper Satellite Dish Installation

Satellite dish installations can also cause roof problems if not done correctly. Improper mounting or sealing around the dish's base can create potential leak points, allowing water to penetrate the roof and cause damage.

Solution

The dish should be inspected to ensure it is securely mounted and all roof penetrations are properly sealed. If necessary, the dish may need to be remounted, and the sealing or flashing around the base should be redone to prevent water infiltration.

Read More, "Common Commercial Roof Problems & Their Solutions"

Clogged or Damaged Vents

Roof ridge vents are essential for adequate attic ventilation, which helps control the temperature and moisture levels. However, over time, these vents can become clogged with debris, blocked by snow or ice, or damaged.

Solution

Inspect your roof ridge vents regularly and clear away any debris or obstructions. If the vents are damaged, consider replacing them with new, high-quality ridge vents to ensure proper attic ventilation.

Corrosion

Corrosion is another common problem for metal roofs. Due to deterioration and rust formation, your roof can corrode, and this can lead to holes, gaps, and leaks. 

Solution

Schedule a professional inspection at least once a year to avoid any corrosion issues. It’s also recommended to not compromise on the quality of the material you choose due to cost. Low-quality materials often increase the risk of costly repairs, corrosion, and premature replacements. 

Loss of Granules

In areas with severe weather, there is a chance that your asphalt shingle roof might start losing granules. This problem can occur due to constant sun exposure, hail, or if the installation was not performed properly.

Solution

To address the loss of shingle granules, it's important to inspect your roof regularly, especially after high winds or storms. You may also need to repair or replace shingles that have lost a significant amount of granules, as this can expose the asphalt material to UV damage and premature aging. 

Damaged Flashing

Roof flashing is designed to provide a seal around chimneys, skylights, and other roof penetrations. However, flashing can damage or deteriorate over time, leading to potential leaks.

Solution

Inspect the flashing around all roof penetrations and replace any damaged or deteriorated sections. Proper flashing installation is crucial to preventing water intrusion.

Roof Moss and Algae Growth

Moss and algae growth are common issues for homeowners, especially in shaded or damp areas. While not necessarily a structural issue, this growth can retain moisture and potentially lead to premature roof deterioration.

Solution

To treat moss and algae growth, use a roof-safe cleaner or a mixture of bleach and water. Trimming overhanging tree branches can also help reduce shaded areas that promote growth.

Fading and Discoloration

This is another common problem that often occurs on roofs. Whether asphalt shingles or metal panels, roofs are prone to fading and discoloration. Due to continuous exposure to harsh weather, like extreme sunlight or snow, the color of your roof might fade. Additionally, if the surface of your roof is dirty, it will result in a discolored or faded roof appearance.

Solution

Thoroughly inspect your roof and look for the cause of the problem. If the reason is dust or dirt, consider a professional soft or pressure wash (as per the contractor’s recommendations). Otherwise, if the reason is faded color, paint your roof with a fresh coat of paint. Consult an expert before taking any steps, and hire a professional to paint your roof to avoid safety concerns.

Roof Rot or Decay

Excessive moisture exposure can lead to rot or decay, particularly in wooden roof components like decking or trusses. This is a major issue that can affect the structural integrity of your roof and cause costly repairs or replacements.

Solution

Address any sources of moisture intrusion promptly, such as leaks or ventilation issues. If rot or decay is present, a professional roofing contractor might remove or replace affected areas.

Leaks

One of the most obvious and frustrating roof problems is leakage. Water seeping through the roof can cause significant damage to your home's interior, including stained ceilings, warped floors, and mold growth. There are many reasons for leaks like damaged flashing around chimneys or skylights, cracked or missing shingles, or even clogged gutters.

Solution

Inspect your roof regularly for any signs of leaks. If you spot a leakage issue, address it immediately by repairing or replacing the damaged roofing components. Additionally, ensure proper attic ventilation and clean your gutters regularly to prevent water buildup.

Why is it Important to Hire a Professional For Roof Repairs and Replacement?

While small roof issues can sometimes be fixed through DIY, it's best to hire a professional roofing expert for larger repairs or replacements. Roofing work requires a lot of practice and skill, and even minor mistakes can lead to future problems. 

Professionals have the proper tools, knowledge, skillset, and experience to identify and fix issues correctly. Hiring an expert ensures the job is done right, preventing additional repairs down the line. They can also complete roofing work much faster than a DIY attempt. 

For major roof repairs or replacements, relying on a professional roofer is the safest and most efficient choice.

Call McClellands Contracting and Roofing For Roof Replacement in Pittsburgh, PA

If you are looking for a reliable partner who can replace your roof in Pittsburgh, PA, and the surrounding areas, then it’s high time that you call McClellands Contracting and Roofing to assist you. 

With years of experience, our skilled roofers aim to ensure faultless installation and long-lasting solutions, providing you with peace of mind and a sturdy, reliable roof. To book a free consultation or for more information, call us at (412) 353-5660.