At GreenGo Roofing, we know your roof is vital to your home’s structure, keeping you and your family safe from the elements. However, over time, roofs—whether flat roofs, tile roofs, or shingle roofs—can develop issues due to aging, weather, or improper maintenance. While some problems may seem small, they can quickly escalate into major, costly repairs. To help homeowners identify and address roofing issues early, we’ve compiled a list of 8 common roof problems you’re likely to encounter and what you can do to fix them.
1. Roof Leaks
Roof leaks are the most common issue homeowners face, regardless of roof type. They can result from:
- Flat Roofs: Pooling water or cracked membranes cause water seepage.
- Tile Roofs: Cracked or loose tiles allow moisture to penetrate the underlayment.
- Shingle Roofs: Missing, cracked, or warped shingles let water into the decking.
- Damaged Flashing: Flashing around chimneys, vents, drip edge, and skylights can crack or rust, creating openings for leaks.
GreenGo Roofing Tip: If you notice water stains, drips, or mold inside your home, act fast. At GreenGo Roofing, we quickly locate and repair leaks to prevent further water damage.
2. Pooling Water on Flat Roofs
Flat roofs are durable but prone to water pooling, which happens when water doesn’t drain properly. Common causes include:
- Poor Drainage: Clogged drains or gutters prevent water flow.
- Low Spots: Over time, roof sections can sag, trapping water.
- Aging Membrane: A deteriorating waterproof membrane can fail under standing water.
Pooling water accelerates roof deterioration and increases the risk of leaks.
GreenGo Roofing Tip: Clean drains regularly and schedule annual flat roof inspections. We offer professional solutions, including improving slopes, patching membranes, and restoring drainage systems.
3. Cracked or Broken Roof Tiles
Tile roofs are known for longevity, but individual tiles can crack, chip, or break. This typically happens due to:
- Impact Damage: Falling branches, debris, or hail can damage tiles.
- Aging: Over time, tiles become brittle and more susceptible to cracks.
- Improper Foot Traffic: Walking on tile roofs without proper care can cause damage.
Cracked tiles expose the underlayment, leading to leaks and potential structural damage.
GreenGo Roofing Tip: If you spot broken tiles, don’t delay. Our team safely replaces damaged tiles and inspects the underlayment to ensure long-term performance.
4. Damaged or Missing Shingles
Shingle roofs are one of the most popular roofing systems but are prone to damage over time. Common causes of shingle problems include:
- High Winds: Storms can blow shingles off the roof.
- UV Exposure: Sunlight can cause shingles to dry out, crack, or curl.
- Granule Loss: Shingles lose their protective granules as they age, reducing their effectiveness.
Missing or damaged shingles expose the roof to water intrusion, leading to rot and mold.
GreenGo Roofing Tip: If widespread damage exists, GreenGo Roofing can replace individual shingles or perform full roof replacements.
5. Poor Roof Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining the longevity of your roof. Poor ventilation can lead to:
- Mold and Mildew: Excess moisture trapped in the attic encourages mold growth, weakening the structure.
- High Energy Bills: Trapped heat forces your HVAC system to work harder, increasing utility costs.
- Shingle Damage: Overheated attics cause shingles to warp and deteriorate faster.
Poor ventilation can affect all roof types.
GreenGo Roofing Tip: Our team can install ridge vents, soffit vents, or attic fans to improve airflow and protect your roof.
6. Roof Flashing Damage
Flashing is the material that seals joints, roof valleys, and areas around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Over time, flashing can:
- Rust or Corrode: Metal flashing can rust in humid climates.
- Crack or Shift: Temperature changes and poor installation can cause flashing to crack or loosen.
- Seal Failure: Worn sealant around flashing creates gaps for water to seep through.
- Drip Edge: Metal flashing installed along the edges of a roof to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters
Damaged flashing is a leading cause of leaks and water intrusion.
GreenGo Roofing Tip: We inspect flashing during every roof assessment. If damaged, we repair or replace it with durable materials to ensure a watertight seal.
7. Roof Sagging
A sagging roof is a serious structural issue that needs immediate attention. Causes include:
- Water Damage: Long-term leaks weaken the roof decking and supports.
- Heavy Loads: Accumulated snow, ice, or debris can weigh down the roof, causing it to sag.
- Old or Weak Structures: Aging materials or improper framing may not support the roof over time.
Flat and tile roofs are especially prone to sagging due to their weight and design.
GreenGo Roofing Tip: Contact us when there is a sign of roof sagging. We provide structural reinforcements, decking repairs, and full roof replacements to ensure your safety.
8. Clogged or Poorly Maintained Gutters
Gutters are crucial in directing water away from your roof and home. When gutters become clogged or poorly maintained, it can result in:
- Water Overflow: Blocked gutters force water to spill onto the roof, leading to leaks and rot.
- Pooling Water: On flat roofs, clogged gutters worsen standing water issues.
- Ice Dams: In cold climates, blocked gutters can cause ice buildup, damaging shingles and flashing.
Clogged gutters cause extensive water damage to shingles, tiles, and flat roof membranes.
GreenGo Roofing Tip: Clean your gutters regularly, especially after storms or during the fall. We also offer professional gutter maintenance and inspection services to ensure proper drainage.
Getting Started with GreenGo Roofing
Roofs face numerous challenges, from leaks and cracked tiles to poor ventilation and sagging. Whether you have a flat roof, tile roof, or shingle roof, identifying these problems early can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and extend your roof’s life. At GreenGo Roofing, we specialize in inspecting, repairing, and replacing all roofing systems with quality craftsmanship and reliable solutions. If you notice any of these common issues, don’t wait—let our team help you protect your most valuable investment.