A rotting roof spells trouble for your home. When your roof’s stability is compromised, your whole home is at risk of water damage, mold and other issues. A rotting roof must be addressed right away, so it’s essential that you notice the initial signs of a problem before it progresses.
What Causes a Roof to Rot?
The main reason for a rotting roof is water. Water is any roof’s enemy No. 1. When water penetrates the shingles, flashing and underlayment, it can seep into the decking and lead to mold and rot. Call a professional if you see any the problems listed below.
Attic Mold
When was the last time you inspected your attic? It’s time to go up to your uppermost level with a flashlight and look at the insulation and plywood decking. If you smell mold, see black mold growth or any water at all, don’t hesitate to call a roofing contractor. Attic mold must be remedied right away or rot will soon set in.
Bowed or Sagging Roof Ridge
Take a look at your roof from the street. Is the roof ridge, the uppermost part of the roof, an even, straight line? If you see the ridge sagging or buckling, this could mean the supportive beams have begun to rot and sink. It’s a key sign that you should contact a professional immediately — the integrity of your home’s structure depends on it. You should also look at the valleys in your roof. If they appear sunken, get the problem addressed right away.
Decaying Shingles
When shingles need replacing, you will know. The granules will be stripped away, and many shingles may be curled or missing altogether. Normally, shingles simply fall victim to wear and tear over their life span. Replacement is the answer.
Inadequate Drainage System
If your gutters are backing up and spilling water down the side of your home, this could definitely lead to a rotting roof. The constant presence of water under the roof’s eaves can lead to rot quickly, affecting even the sturdiest, newest roofs. Make sure you clean your gutters on a regular basis and check for blockages.
Excessive Ice Dams
Winter is rough on a home, and if you constantly have ice dams during this season, you could have poor ventilation or bad workmanship that will quickly lead to a rotting roof if it isn’t addressed. An ice dam causes melting precipitation to back up under your shingles and penetrate the decking, causing leaks, mold and yes — rot.
Call the Roof Doctor today for cost-effective solutions for repairs or a replacement. Our team can determine quickly whether you have a rotting roof and how best to take care of the problem.