There are different types of roofing problems. Some are considered minor, such as general wear and tear or an isolated leak. Others tend to be on the more serious side, such as flashing damage or wind-lifted shingles, which often requires costly and extensive repair work (or even replacement). If your current roofing system appears to be bowing down the middle, you’ll know instantly that this particular issue falls into the latter category. A sagging roof needs a prompt solution, but in order to determine the most effective fix, you’ll need to identify what’s causing the problem in the first place.
1. Snow and Ice Buildup
Roofing systems are built sturdy, but the load they can handle is still limited. When too much pressure is applied to the roof, it can cause unnecessary strain to its structure. This may become an issue during winter-a time when snow and ice accumulates rather quickly on the roof surface. The additional weight this buildup places on the system makes it susceptible to sagging.
How to Prevent This
You just need to make sure that snow and ice are periodically cleared away from your roof. In the interest of personal safety, hire an expert to perform this task for you.
2. Wind Load
High winds are always something to be wary about on your roofing system. That’s because they can also put additional load to your roof, causing it to sag. Shear load, for instance, is a horizontal wind load force that can tilt a roof if powerful enough. A lateral load, meanwhile, refers to a push-and-pull horizontal pressure that may cause your system to move off its structure.
How to Prevent This
Get accurate wind load calculations, taking them into account when having a new roofing system installed. This helps ensure a sturdier and safer roof structure.
3. Multiple Roof Layers
You’ve most likely heard about re-roofing, a method of roof installation that involves laying a new layer of shingles over the old ones. Reliable roofers don’t recommend this – and with good reason. Re-roofing not only compromises proper attic ventilation, leaves possible water damage unaddressed and nullifies roofing warranties, it can also make the roof sag because of the extra weight it places on the structure.
How to Prevent This
Invest in a complete roof tear-off before having a new roofing installed in your home. This gives your contractor the opportunity to deal with potential water damage to the roof structure, giving the new system a stronger foundation.
4. Moisture Damage
The trusses and deck, which are considered the “skeleton” of the roofing system, are usually made of wood or wood composite. This makes them more prone to moisture damage. And given the number of ways that moisture or water can get inside your roof, you’ll be familiar with this particular issue fairly quickly. As mold and rot eats away at the trusses and deck, the roof structure gradually weakens until it starts to sag.
How to Prevent It
You’ll need to prevent water and moisture from getting into the attic. This means keeping your gutters clear and clog-free so that water won’t seep through the fascia and end up in there. Being proactive about roof leak repair will help a lot as well. Keeping the attic well-ventilated is another way. This ensures that moisture and heat are allowed to escape outside, taking away the key “ingredients: that make the roof structure a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
Dealing With a Sagging Roof
But what if sagging has already occurred in your roofing system? Then, you’ll need a professional to perform a comprehensive assessment of its structure to determine the most appropriate solution. The safest and most likely one is complete roof replacement, which can sort out most of the serious problems caused by sagging. A new roofing system offers a better, more effective way of heading off inclement weather, while keeping your home safe and structurally sound.
But to ensure you can get the most of your upgrade, you’ll need to work with a dependable roofing company for the job. DIY is out of the question when it comes to such a huge project, after all. And you won’t even have to look very far for the leading choice; for homeowners in and around Fulton County, the only name to call is ImproveIT! of Atlanta. Here’s why:
ImproveIT! of Atlanta specializes in residential roofing services, including roof replacement, repair and inspection. Once you notice the warning signs of structural damage to your roofing system, turn to us immediately. Our service areas include Sandy Springs, Marietta and Alpharetta, GA. You may get in touch with us by calling (770) 612-5635 or filling out this contact form. Let us help you keep your home in Fulton County safe and damage-free with our exceptional roofing solutions.
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