Common Residential Roof Problems

Four Common Roof Problems to Watch for in Northern Virginia

Roof issues can be caused by dozens of problems. Here are four common roof problems that Northern Virginia homeowners should know about.

1. Roof Leaks

These serious and daunting leaks can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Missing or damaged shingles or tiles
Worn or damaged flashing
Missing flashing on the roof
Clogged gutters or downspouts
Poor installation or improper ventilation
Exposure to severe weather conditions
Age and wear of the roofing material
Previous repair that was not done correctly

Roof leaks are common in newer homes, properties with recent roof replacements, and older homes where the roof is beyond its recommended useful life.

2. Clogged Gutters

Clogged gutters are another common roof problem which leads to long-term damage. When gutters are clogged with leaves, debris, and other materials, they become heavy and pull away from the house, which can cause leaks and other issues. Additionally, clogged gutters can force water to back up and overflow, which can lead to water damage on the walls and ceilings.

In serious cases, clogged gutters can even cause damage to your home’s foundation. When water is not able to flow through the gutters properly, water may pool up around the base of the home. This can lead to a number of issues that include cracking, shifting, and other problems that may compromise the structural integrity of the home.

3. Hail Damage

Another common roof problem is hail.The hard, frozen balls of ice have the ability to strike the roof surface with significant force, which may cause serious issues. The type and severity of damage can vary depending on the size of the hail, the angle of impact, and the type of roofing material.

Resulting issues include:

Punctures or holes in the roofing material
Cracks or splits in the roofing material
Dented or dinged metal roofing
Bruised or cracked shingles
Damaged or missing flashing

Not all hail will cause damage to a roof. However, if the size and force is enough, these balls of ice can break or dent the roofing material (including asphalt shingles and even roof tiles). In some cases, the hail may not cause visible damage to the roof, but can still weaken the material, making it more susceptible to leaks or other problems in the future.

It’s important to inspect the roof after a hailstorm, as hail damage is a leading culprit for some of the most common roof repairs. A professional roofing contractor can assess the damage and determine if repairs or replacements are necessary. If left untreated, hail damage can lead to leaks, rot, mold, and other issues that can compromise the structural integrity of the home and affect the indoor air quality.

Additionally, hail damage may not be covered by insurance if the homeowners don’t have hail damage coverage or if the damage is considered wear and tear. It’s always a good idea to check your insurance policy and understand what type of damages are covered.

Looking to combat the effects of hail damage? For decades, Elevated Contracting has helped local homeowners keep their roof in top shape.

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4. Ice Damming

Ice damming is a common problem with roof shingles that occurs during the winter months, especially in colder climates. It occurs when snow melts on the roof and then refreezes at the edge of the roof, creating a barrier that prevents water from flowing. This can lead to leaks, missing or damaged shingles, and other problems.

The melting snow on the roof is usually caused by heat loss from the attic, which results in snow on the upper part of the roof melting. As the water runs down the roof, it reaches the colder eaves and starts to freeze. As it continues to freeze, it creates a dam, which prevents the water from flowing off the roof. The water can then seep under shingles or through any cracks and begin to leak into the home, causing damage to the walls, ceilings, and insulation.

Ice damming can cause a variety of issues on a roof, including:

Leaks and water damage to the walls and ceilings
Damage to the roofing material, such as missing or cracked shingles
Damage to the flashing, causing leaks around the chimneys and vents
Damage to the gutters and downspouts, causing them to pull away from the house
Damage to the insulation, causing it to become wet and lose its effectiveness

While there are plenty of ways to prevent ice damming—including better insulating the attic and ensuring proper ventilation to allow cold air to circulate—it’s too late once ice damming occurs.

If you’re experiencing ice damming, it’s important to contact a Northern Virginia roofing contractor for an inspection and repairs. They can assess the damage and determine the best course of action to prevent further damage. Additionally, regular maintenance on the home and roofing system can help prevent future ice damming.

Looking to Determine the Status of Your Roof? Elevated Contracting Can Help

Proactive care and preventive maintenance can help keep your Northern Virginia home in tip-top shape. This includes your roof. At Elevated Contracting, we highly recommend scheduling a residential roof inspection when you notice signs of:

Mold and algae growth
Granule loss in gutters
Visible shingle damage
Clogged gutters and downspouts
Issues maintaining temperature in the home
Sagging areas or bumps in the roof

When you call us, we perform a detailed roof inspection that includes thoroughly examining, assessing, and documenting the condition of various elements like decking and walls, metal flashings and chimney caps, gutters and downspouts, pipe collars and vents, shingles, and membranes.

Schedule Your Free Assessment Today

Is your roof showing signs of common roof problems, deterioration, or nearing the end of its expected life? If so, it’s wise to have it inspected. At Elevated Contractracting, we’re happy to offer free home roof inspections to give you a comprehensive understanding of any issues that may be jeopardizing your home. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!