Friday, September 25, 2015

Common Roof System Problem Areas

Do you want to protect your family from danger?  That's a pretty simple question nearly anyone can answer correctly.  




The tougher question is, how do you know your roof is strong enough to protect your family?  Some people think it's the amount of money you spend, or maybe the materials you use, while others insist that it's the quality of the craftsmanship.  The truth is, it's a combination of all three that makes a better roof – one that keeps your family protected against tormenting weather.

Better Roof Protocol

Although a roof system can suffer a multitude of issues, there are common roof problems a roof is susceptible to. These common roof issues are also reasonably easy to identify and repair on your own, however we strongly suggest that you contact a professional roofing contractor to help you determine the integrity of your roof.

Common Roof System Problem Areas

  • Rotted, Corroded or Damage Fascia – Fancy is the word architects use to describe the finishing trim running horizontally where the gutter attaches to the roof – the front board along your roof line that serves as a protective layer between the edge of the roof and the elements of the outdoors.  In simpler terms, it keeps the weather outside.  Moisture is the number one cause of problems with your fascia. 
  • Cracked, Punctured or Rotting Soffit – The exposed surface under the overhanging section of the roof eave –finished surface beneath the fascia is known as the soffit.  A vented soffit has tiny holes allow air to circulate – cycling to the vents and draw heat and moisture away from the structure – helping to ventilate the attic, regulate the temperature in your attic and the rest of your home so your family has a comfortable place to live.
  • Oxidization, Loose or Deteriorating Flashings – Flashings seal the roof system edges, perimeters, penetrations, walls, valleys, drains and any other area where the actual roof covering is interrupted or terminated. The primary function of flashing is to help seal any lapse in the roof system where water, insects, or debris may enter – the primary areas for leak if not checked regularly.  Although most slashing are aluminum or galvanized steel, there are also 100% polyester flashings that create watertight gutters, parapet walls and caps – build strength in drains, scuppers, penetrations, and transitions for all types of roof restoration systems.  The most common areas for flashing are in the valleys, around the chimney and even around dormer windows or skylights.
  • Backed up, Sagging, Leaks or Holes in Gutters and Downspouts – Gutters keep water away from the foundation of your home or building and protect its structural integrity. Highly susceptible to buildup of debris which cause mold and mildew under your roof.  When gutters and downspouts are backed up with debris they become useless. The heavy weight of leaves, twigs and standing water can cause gutters to sag and pull away from the fascia. When they start sagging, this is usually a problem with the hangers (hardware that secures the gutters to the fascia). They may deteriorate over time or installed too far apart to support the full weight of the gutters.
  • Missing, Broken or Curling Shingles – Shingles provide a great barrier of protection but they are often develop algae streaks and curling. When roofing shingles are missing or broken they can expose the underlayment and underlying wood subject to rotting, penetrations, interior leaks and other damage. If you see buckling shingles, this means they were not adequately ventilated during installation.  Discoloration is an indication of a leaking roof that often start out as a small spot that ultimately grows into a gaping hole in the ceiling and onto you heads. If you have missing shingles, standing water, excessive snow, or ice dams on your exposed roof, this is the stairway to rotted roof and exposing your  family and friends to unnecessary risk.


Free Roof Inspection
If you believe your roof was damaged, contact PERTEX now, before decay and leaks take over.  We will conduct a full inspection on your roof for free! (A $500 Value). We will identify all issues associated with the repair or replacing the roof on your home or building. It is our primary goal to return your property to pre-loss condition or better. Over time (months, not years), damage to the granules on your shingles and you roof directly to the elements, resulting in decay and leaks to your roof.

Better Roofing Solutions