Our Blog

5 Factors that Contribute to Roof Damage

There are many types of roofs that can be seen on Sydney homes today. Some of the most common materials include wooden shingles, lead, zinc, copper and slate roofing. While each has its own unique qualities and level of durability, all of them eventually succumb to damage.

Numerous factors can cause damage to a roof. You should be quick to notice these before they wreak havoc on your roof and property. Here are some of the most common causes of roofing problems you should watch out for:

1. Weather

Forces of nature are beyond anyone’s control. The weather has its way of causing damage to structures which cannot be undone. Heat and cold can become quite extreme at certain parts of the year and can ultimately damage your roof. Strong winds and severe storms can also loosen nails and possibly remove some parts of your roof. But with proper installation and constant maintenance, damage brought about by harsh weather can be prevented or at least lessened.

2. Environment

When it comes to roofs, small things found in its surrounding environment can contribute to its wear and tear. These can be tree branches and debris that fall on the roof, or animals like birds and possums that make a home out of it. Over time, these little things can cause significant damage, especially if homeowners fail to notice them and they’re ignored for months or years.

3. Corrosion

Lead roof flashings and valleys, when corroded, can result to leaks. Even if you have a long-lasting slate roof, leaks can still develop because of worn out flashings. When this happens, replacement would be necessary and it would be important to immediately call on experienced slate roofing repair companies to fix this.

4. Poor Maintenance

Maintenance plays a crucial role in extending the life span of roofs. However, it is often overlooked by many homeowners. It is highly advised to do periodic inspections so you can detect signs of damage early on. This will give you enough time to do some repair work or replacements before more damage is done.

5. Inferior Workmanship

Many homeowners make the mistake of hiring the wrong company. Unqualified installers do not work the same way as experienced professionals, and you could end up wasting a lot of time and money with their shoddy work. Make sure you hire experienced and qualified roof experts so you don’t risk more costs and damage to your roof.

Some of these causes may not be completely avoidable, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do. Keep in mind that prevention and early detection of damage can make a big difference. Make frequent inspections of your roof’s heritage tiles, slates or wooden shingles and take action as soon as you notice any form of destruction or deterioration caused by these five factors. This will ensure that your roof is kept in the best condition.