Jaime Westenbarger Shares the Top 5 Issues That Could Damage Your Roof
Roof issues are one of the main concerns that most homeowners have trouble with. The problem with roofs is that they are not easy to inspect. And usually, you wouldn’t know you have an issue with your roof until it’s too late.
Jaime Westenbarger is from Brentwood, Tennessee, and is the director of sales for Bluebird Roofing in Nashville. He is an experienced entrepreneur that has been involved in sales his entire career. He worked in the financial and insurance sector for over 20 years. As a homeowner himself, he believes that we all should pay attention to the following issues that could damage the roof.
Sustained Snowfall and Wind
The weather and the elements play a major role in the damage that your roof sustains. Jaime Westenbarger explains that while the roof can handle brief wind or snowfall, long-term snow puts a strain on the roof and causes serious damage. Snow build up adds extra weight and melted snow finds its way into the shingles, which causes decay.
You might have similar issues with the roof if you live in an area that gets constant windstorms. Strong wind plays havoc with the roof and weakens the structure. The best solution here is to install a roof specifically designed to withstand the onslaught of heavy snowfall and windstorms. Make sure you have slopes that repel the buildup of snow and pay attention to roof ventilation to discourage the debilitating effects of moisture.
Cracked Shingles
Shingles are prone to cracking, blisters, and even splits. According to Jaime Westenbarger, this can turn out to be a very costly issue. Shingles protect the roof structure against moisture and decay. When they crack or split, this allows water to make its way inside your roof. This is the main cause of mold and water pooling in roofs with all the damage this can cause.
As with many other roof problems, the sooner you discover the problem, the better you can fix it and avert further damage. So, you should check your roof regularly and inspect your shingles for any weak spots or cracks.
Tree Branches
Trees growing near your roof can have a huge impact on the safety of the roof. The way Jaime Westenbarger sees it, tree branches and strong wind can have a corrosive effect on the roof the same way snow build up has. Branches brushing against the roof at all times could displace the shingles and expose the roof to moisture and even animals nesting in your roof.
This is usually an easy problem to remedy. Just cut any branches that arch over your roof. In the same vein, you should avoid walking on the roof and always clear any debris that falls on the roof regularly.
Moss and Lichen
If tree branches can cause havoc to your roof, imagine with plant growth can do to it. The way Jaime Westenbarger sees it, moss and lichen are more serious than a tree growing close to your roof. For one thing,” he explains, a tree branch near the roof is easy to spot. But the same can’t be said about moss which grows and festers before you even notice it.
Here too regular checking and inspection of your roof are important to prevent moss and lichen from causing decay and leaks. Once you notice a change in the color of the roof, take steps to remove the plant growths and keep the roof clean.
Jaime Westenbarger on Broken or Twisted Flashings
Flashings are important parts of the roof that keep its integrity and maintain its structure. They are usually made of metal that doesn’t rust and resists the deteriorating impact of the elements. They hold the edges of the roof together and with the help of durable sealants prevent water leaks and moisture from creeping inside the roof. So, when these flashings break or cave out because of high temperature, they could leave the roof open to deterioration.
Inspect your flashings and make sure they are holding the seams of the roof. If you see any cracks or signs of age, you should have an expert reinstall new flashings to keep your roof intact and in good shape.
