When a roof is damaged, it can have significant repercussions on the home, the biggest being water leaks. Water leaks can have devastating effects on the state of your home because the damage can spread as easily as water flows. 

Naturally, a roof is at its best shape at the time of installation and it often holds up quite well over its life, with roof failure occurring in the last 25 percent of its life.  However, as a roof ages, problems are unavoidable and the lifespan of a roof is usually between 20 and 30 years.

How to deal with an ageing roof

This is what makes it fundamental to stay ahead of potential water damage and it begins with determining the age of the roof.  Typically, a roof that is less than 8 years old is considered relatively new and simple repairs should be enough to extend its life. 

Asphalt shingles, for instance, should be replaced roughly every 12 years to ensure a more watertight seal. While the materials and their lifespans vary, any roof leak is a problem so staying on top of maintenance should be priority number one for any homeowner.

Before anything, it is key to know the specifics of your roof like what type of materials are used on it because this will help determine the potential course of action. One crucial step is to always inspect for common issues rather than just looking for existing problems. Most issues occur because of subpar installation and this is often seen where a proper moisture barrier has not been laid down, leading to poor seams and potential membrane penetration. 

For instance, debris left on the roof such as nails could potentially penetrate the waterproof membrane leading to much bigger problems. This way you can be sure to avoid unnecessary damage that could worsen over time.

Photo: Ed!

Effects of water damage

Water damage can be excessive and this is because water can ruin wood, metal, and cement. But this type of damage could eventually pose safety and health risks. A leak in the roof could present a fire hazard from shorted wires when electrical wiring is in the attic or the ceiling of the house. A leak in the roof could easily lead to damage in the attic of the home or even the ceilings. 

Visually, one should look for dark spots in the ceiling paint or bubbles in the plaster and remember that this can easily spread to adjacent walls. Water damage can also lead to the growth of mould and mildew which can fester and spread throughout the home. 

In terms of health risks, mould and mildew can seriously affect one’s respiratory system. This is especially true for those who are highly sensitive such as people suffering from asthma.

Solutions 

Renovating your roof is always a good investment because it extends the overall life of your home. Keeping your roof in top shape is also essential when trying to sell your home since potential buyers will be discouraged by the cost of repair or replacement. Therefore, it is important to remember that a damaged roof can be reflected in the purchase price as buyers try to factor in the costs of repairs in what they are willing to offer.

Don’t forget routine roof maintenance

Routine maintenance of your home's roof extends its life considerably because it increases the time between replacements as you stay on top of any issues which may arise. Homeowners need to constantly evaluate the state of their roof. 

Temporary roof repairs should be temporary and fixed as immediately as possible. It's also important to remember that smaller areas of a deteriorated roof are easier to repair but damage can spread over a larger area if not properly maintained.

Furthermore, improper repairs of a small problem could lead to much greater issues making it even more important to consult a professional for both the inspection and any necessary repairs. Untended water damage can seriously impact the structural integrity, making it imperative to assess the situation as soon as possible.

If you want to learn more about rooftop renovations, check this article: Renovation guide: fixing your roof.

Author: David Ben-Zaken