Category: Roofing

There are multiple potential causes for why a roof may become compromised by leaks. Below you’ll find a few common reasons:

Damaged or Broken Shingles

Broken shingles should be easy to spot. Since the shingles used for a roof are of the same color, spotting missing or impaired shingles shouldn’t be too difficult. Be on the lookout for pieces of broken shingles and or parts of a roof which are exposed.

Cracked or Weakened Flashing

When shingles become impaired, water can seep behind flashing. Flashing is a piece of metal installed underneath shingles and joints to prevent water from entering vulnerable areas of a roof such as low points or the edges of vents and skylights. Flashing can become defective over time, with the tar substance used to secure it splitting or decaying due to icy winters and sweltering summers. In this case, flashing material can be penetrated by rainwater and or melted ice which will cause mold growth and or leaks.

Ice Dam Formation

Ice dams are formed when the buildup of heat inside a home melts snow on a roof. Changes in temperature and air pressure cause melted snow to refreeze once it gets to the edge of a roof. This can compromise the structural integrity of a home if the accrued ice dams are heavy enough. Additionally, water that pools in the ice dam can gradually seep behind shingles and potentially into a home.

Unsealed valleys

Water can also pool where two parts of a roof merge at a low point, otherwise known as a “valley.” If this valley isn’t sealed correctly, rainwater and melted ice can enter into a home. Also, as mentioned, different sealants can wear out and crack, leaving a home vulnerable to leakage.

Structurally Compromised Skylights

When noticing moisture around a skylight, it may mean that the skylight itself is compromised, or it can indicate issues with the flashing surrounding the skylight. This is a warning sign that the skylight itself may be impaired and or that a leak can come about around the skylight.

These issues are routinely identified and corrected by our team of experienced roofing professionals at TopLine Home Improvement. For the most reputable name in home improvement in Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens, look no further than TopLine. We offer free roof inspections and estimates and can provide anything from minor repairs to a whole new roof. Call today at (718) 769-4555.

While some homeowners may not think about having their roof inspected, regular observance and maintenance is essential. You can extend the lifespan of a roof and obtain some peace of mind by taking some precautionary measures. Continue reading to learn more about maintaining your roof.

What is roof maintenance?

Roof maintenance entails thoroughly examining all parts of a roof. It may be done annually, biannually or quarterly, depending on the type of roof and its general condition.

• Remove any debris from the roof, valleys, and gutters
• Inspect the roof for animal intrusion or damage
• Inspect ventilation, fans or turbines, and obstructions in vents
• Inspect loose or missing caulking and all flashings
• Have your chimney inspected

Why is roof maintenance important?

Inspecting and maintaining a roof will go a long way toward preventing any unforeseen future damage while ensuring its good condition. Even if a roof was properly installed and shows no obvious signs of wear, an annual inspection assures a homeowner their roof and gutters are kept in great condition.

Roof maintenance prevents future problems — The most essential reason for a regular roof inspection and maintenance is to prevent any future issues. A smaller problem that is not addressed immediately may lead to a much more serious situation in just a short time.

Roof maintenance maximizes the life of your roof — A roof’s lifespan can be increased by conducting routine inspections and maintenance. With the correct materials and proper installation, a new asphalt roof is expected to last up to 20 years. However, a roof’s life span can certainly increase with regular upkeep.

Roof maintenance will give you peace of mind — A good roofer will help either find any particular issues with a roof or give it a clean bill of health. This way, even if a roof needs repairs, they can be handled before they become more serious and expensive.

TopLine Home Improvement can provide an honest, thorough roof inspection at no cost to you. We can always address any issue with your roof, big or small, without any worry. Get in touch with us for a free estimate!