There’s no underplaying the importance that roofs have in our lives. Without them, we’d have a lot of trouble staying warm and dry in our homes.
Unfortunately, roofs can weaken over time, and it’s not hard for them to get damaged. That’s why Big Bear Roofing exists to provide roof repairs and roof replacement in Charleston, South Carolina. Our roofers tackle any issues that might occur with the top of your property so that you can sleep easy at night.
There’s a lot that can go wrong with your roof, from missing tiles to sagging decking, and plenty that can cause these problems too. From moss and trees to the fury of the elements, your roof is vulnerable to so many different things. We’ve outlined some of the biggest troublemakers so that you have a better idea of what to look out for when checking your roof.
Trees
Trees can add a lot of beauty to your property, not to mention the good they do for the environment. However, having them too close to your home can be a concern due to the risk they pose to your roof. In windy weather, the branches can potentially scratch the tiles, causing damage that could require repair. A few scrapes here and there might not seem like that big of an issue, but they can build up over time.
What’s more, falling leaves can contribute to the mess that accumulates in your gutters, which puts you at risk of leakages. You’ll want to ensure that you remove this debris when spring cleaning your roof so that rainwater doesn’t find its way into your home.
Moss
The wetter the climate, the bigger the risk that moss poses. Moss might not be such an issue for houses in Charleston, but if moss does happen to start growing on your property, you need to deal with it immediately. Not only is it an eyesore, but it can cause a lot of water damage.
The problem with moss is that it soaks up water, so every time there’s rainfall, it thrives. The more it soaks up, the likelier it is to cause leaks, dampness, and roof softening. Thankfully, it’s slow-growing, which means if you spot it, you can deal with it before it becomes a problem.
Algae
While moss thrives in wet climates, algae are most present in humid climates. That can be a real problem for Charleston homes, which is why Big Bear Roofing uses Atlas shingles that offer Roofing Contractors and its black streaks. Not only does this help to reduce the risk of water damage to your roof, but it also improves your home’s appearance too. Those black streaks can hurt your property’s visual appeal, which could affect the resale value if you ever plan on selling.
Cold Weather
You wouldn’t think it by looking at it, but snow is quite heavy. When it piles up on your roof, it can start to compromise your home’s structural integrity, which then leads to further damage.
There’s a lot you can do to keep your roof in good shape during winter, but the main thing to focus on is clearing away snow and ice wherever possible. The longer it sits on the roof, the more at risk you are from leaking and collapse. Just don’t try to deal with the situation yourself if it’s not safe enough to do so. Climbing on your roof can be problematic at the best of times, not least when the surfaces are cold and slippery.
Hot Weather
Just as cold weather can be bad for your roof, so too can hot weather. This issue is something that Charleston residents may find more of an issue for their homes, given that summers in South Carolina average over 90 degrees Fahrenheit at their warmest.
The reason why this weather is such an issue for your roof is tied to the sun. This can heat your home quite significantly during the day, which is problematic if the temperatures drop considerably at night. The sudden change can lead to cracks due to the expansion and contracting of the roof material.
This issue is made worse if your roof’s protective layer is diminished, something that the sun’s harsh rays can also cause. The UV rays can damage the layer that’s supposed to reflect it, weakening your roof and making it susceptible to problems.
Storms
Storms aren’t uncommon in South Carolina, which means that homes here have to be prepared for the impacts of such violent weather. Securing loose items, installing storm shutters, and inspecting your property for structural issues beforehand can all help you when storm-proofing. However, nothing is ever 100% foolproof, so there’s always a chance that you’ll come out the other side with property damage.
Your roof is one of the most challenging places to protect during a storm, which is why you must do a thorough inspection of it whenever such bad weather hits. That way, you can check for any damage and call in professional help should you need repairs before the next storm.
Old Age
Materials grow weaker over time – that’s just a fact of life. Even the most durable materials wear down eventually, especially when regularly exposed to the elements. That’s an issue that may well affect your roof, especially if it’s been around for several decades.
Roofs last for 25 years on average, so if you know that yours is nearing that age or has even surpassed it, you’ll want to take action. Otherwise, some of these other issues could be exacerbated because your roof isn’t as strong as it used to be.
You might not be able to control the weather or stop your roof from getting old. However, you can intervene when an issue arises to prevent things from getting worse. Remember that Big Bear Roofing Contractors are always here to help with any repair or replacement needs you might have, so go ahead and contact us. It’s our job to keep the roofs of Charleston homes safe and secure.