Roofs generally have a long lifespan, and they are made to be resistant to most forms of damage and deterioration. With time, however, both damage and natural deterioration will take their toll on a roof. That’s why there are expected service lifespans so you can plan and make preparations for your roof replacement. But as a homeowner, it pays to know the real current state of your roof. Is it simply nearing the end of its service lifespan? Or has it been damaged? What is the difference between a roof with normal wear and tear, and a damaged roof?
Normal Wear and Tear
Wear and tear are expected for roofs as they age and continue to be exposed to the elements. This means that they are not imminent risks that need immediate repair or replacement, but they are signs that your roof is nearing a time that it does need repair or replacement. Here are some signs of normal wear and tear:
Shingles with fading color are common as constant exposure to sunlight drains them of their colors. This is because of ultraviolet (UV) rays breaking down chemical bonds within an object. Though some objects are resistant to this effect by reflecting sunlight, most dyed textiles and objects with darker colors tend to be more prone to color fading. But don’t worry! This is mostly just an aesthetic drawback, and the protective capabilities of your roofing shingles are still there.
Slight lifting of your roofing shingles is caused by the constant battering of the wind on your roof. In areas with strong winds, this is the most common cause of regular wear and tear. Winds slightly lift the shingles and expose the layer beneath, increasing the risk of water damage.
Roof Damage
These are the effects that you shouldn’t ignore and confuse with regular wear and tear as they are caused by excessive external forces like extreme cold, hailstones and high-speed winds. When you see these signs, you must contact your roofing contractor immediately to schedule an inspection and have them repaired.
Cold climate damage is one of the most common forms of damage that can be mistaken for wear and tear. A common issue is the formation of ice dams, where snow and ice build up at the edge of your roof and gutters, and essentially stop melted snow and ice from flowing off your roof. The water settles on top of the ice formation and gradually seeps under the gaps of your roofing shingles, eventually causing leaks.
Sagging roofs are also blatant signs of a damaged roof that needs immediate repair or replacement. This is caused by damage buildup, deteriorating roofing materials or simply too much weight that it can no longer maintain its proper shape. If this issue is left alone, your roof will be left at risk of collapsing altogether.
Contact Us!
Goodrich Roofing can assist you with all your roofing needs! For any inquiries, contact us at (505) 219-4450, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve clients and homeowners in Albuquerque, NM.