Your Home Repair Solution

Yes, yes, even our roofs have  enemies. Here in L, our roofs take a beating from elements such as  wind, sun, rain and hail. Especially during summer. The sun has been  known to take more years off your roof than any other factor. Our UV  index is so high that it cooks your roof’s shingles causing them to  crack and break apart.

Here is a breakdown of how each element can affect your roof:

• Sun: UV rays and heat will deteriorate your roofing materials over time. As mentioned above this is the worst enemy of your roof.
• Wind: High wind has  been known to lift the corners of shingles and force water & debris  underneath the materials causing rot. Severe wind can also cause  considerable damage.
• Rain: Rain will get  under deteriorated shingles or tiles and cause the roofing deck to rot.  This extra moisture will cause mildew and rot elsewhere as well, such as  insulation, ceilings, walls and electrical systems.
• Algae: Algae will  grow in shaded and damp areas on asphalt or wood roofing materials.  Algae is usually identified by its greenish-black stains. Since Algae  can retain moisture it can cause rotting and other problems. To avoid  Algae keep gutters clean and trim trees that overhang into your roof.
• Moss: Moss holds an  incredible amount of moisture and should be removed immediately to avoid  rotting wood. Moss can also grow roots which can work its way under  your roofing materials. To avoid moss, it is important to trim bushes  and trees away from your roof.
• Snow: Though we  don’t have to worry about this in Florida, snow and ice will block  gutters and cause water to get underneath the shingle which will cause  rotting of the fascia and decking.
• Trees and Leafs: Not  only will trees cause moss and algae formation as noted above but it  will also cause gouges and scratches to roofing materials if branches  rub against your roof. Furthermore, falling tree branches can damage or  puncture roofing materials. Leafs will also hold moisture and block  gutter systems which will lead to rot.
• Condensation: Condensation  over time will wreak havoc on a poorly ventilated attic. Moisture will  promote the decay of rafters and wood sheathing which could destroy any  roofing material from the inside out. Your ideal attic should be close  to the outside temperature to avoid condensation. This can be achieved  with bigger or additional vents.

These elements will cause weak  spots which are most commonly found along the edges where your roof  meets a chimney, vents, or walls