Don't Let This Be You: Roof Deterioration

Ahh, life in the Midwest. Our hot, sunny summers are ideal for hiking, boating and weekends at the cabin. Our snowy winters are perfect for nordic and downhill skiing, skating and snowmobiling. But what about our roofs? How do they feel about our fluctuating climate? Because it’s their job to protect our homes and our businesses from the elements, they’re obviously going to be exposed to them! In the Midwest, this means everything from the scorching sun, extreme rain and hail to subzero temps, snow, and ice.

Every roof eventually needs to be replaced because seasonal wear and tear compromise its integrity over time. While some wear and tear is normal, when left unattended, little problems quickly lead to bigger problems that diminish the lifespan of your roof.

What causes a roof to deteriorate?

It’s a mistake to think that just because you put a new roof on your home or business you can forget about it for the next 20+ years. At All Elements, we often don’t receive maintenance calls until homeowners or property managers are catching roof leaks with buckets and rigging funnels into temporary interior gutter systems to direct the influx of water that is leaking through the building’s envelope. Sadly, when roof damage is this severe, the roof decking is already ruined and the insulation under the decking is likely saturated. Don’t let this be you!

How can I prevent serious roof deterioration?

Diligent roof maintenance through the years can help extend your roof’s lifespan and protect the interior of your home or business. Perform an annual inspection of your roof with attention to the following:

Shingles: Are any shingles missing or damaged in any way? Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense and if they’re not in good condition, water can easily sneak underneath and penetrate your moisture barrier. Replace any compromised shingles for maximum performance.

Sealant: Sealant provides an extra layer of protection against the elements. It is most commonly applied to flat roofs. If your roof has a sealant coating, check sealant for cracks or signs of wear. Remove a compromised sealant before applying a fresh coat.

Gutters: During your roofing inspection, thoroughly inspect gutters for any debris, removing any you find. When gutters are clogged, water cannot drain properly off the roof and away from the house. Improper drainage allows water to move up under the shingles leading to rot, interior water damage and ice dams.

Chimney: A chimney that is not structurally sound is dangerous to operate and a hazard to people who are walking around outside the home. Did you know that it is hazardous to your roof as well? When brick crumbles, the debris can lead to shingle damage and water penetration.

Overhanging foliage: Trim any overhanging foliage to keep unwanted critters off your roof, minimize the moisture that could become trapped against its surface and keep branches from damaging shingles. Taking these precautions can extend the life of your roof and keep it from falling into disrepair.

Are you interested in an annual maintenance plan or an annual roof inspection? All Elements would love
to help! Our trusted technicians can save you a huge headache and unexpected financial strain down the road. Give us a call today at 763.314.0234 or contact us. 

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