There’s nothing quite as nerve-racking as the first time you notice that tell-tale water spot blossoming on your ceiling. Luckily, with a brief investigation into how that stain ended up there, you can prevent many more from following!
Irregular Maintenance or Neglect
Your roof needs occasional maintenance to live a long healthy life. The mingling of high temperatures, excessive moisture and seasonal gusts wears heavily on homes here in the Sunshine State. A roof in Florida should be inspected after heavy storms or at least every 2 years. Be sure to address any signs of damage, however small, before they become a massive expense. Keep an eye out for:
- Curling or buckling shingles
- Peeling paint on ceiling or walls
- Wear and tear on the gutters
Improper Installation
A misplaced shingle or the wrong sort of fastener may seem minor, but it can end up requiring extensive repairs. Florida has the strictest building codes in the nation, and some counties take it a step further. Take the time to browse your local roofers; ask questions, check references and make sure your contractor is licensed! The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation has a free online search to ensure your contractor is legitimate.
- Knowledge and experience
- Good references
- Reputable business practices
Punctures & Separation
Wind-tossed trees crashing through the ceiling are usually what we think of when it comes to holes. Unfortunately, even a small puncture or gap compromises the integrity of your roof, and can wreak havoc. Buildup of sticks or leaves allows water to pool, and seep through your roof’s protective layers. If moisture makes its way past the underlayment you can end up with a moldy deck and rotten rafters.
What to look for:
- Buildup or pooling in valleys
- Unusual temperature difference in certain areas of the home
- Water stains on ceiling
Poor Ventilation
Improper venting causes destruction from the inside out. In theory, air should be sucked in from under the eaves and drift upward to exit through the top vents. Unfortunately air pressure is a difficult business, and it’s easy to disrupt the process. Some roofs (like those in extremely warm and wet areas) are more vulnerable and are likely to require professional intervention.
- Rusting of nails and brackets
- Mold or rot in the attic
- A/C units working abnormally hard
The Age
Even the most well-maintained roof will degrade over time. Florida’s main culprit is the climate, but everything from the slope to the shingle color affects a roof’s lifespan. If your roof covering is on the mature side you may wish to consider replacing it. This will avoid allowing uninvited guests inside, and incurring significantly greater expenses later on.
- Discoloration or streaking
- Blistered shingles
- Repeated leaking
Rarely do we lend thought to the adversity our roofs contend with daily. Sizzling in the sun, resisting subtropical tempests, defender against drizzle and deluge alike. With all our roofs do for us, it’s important to evaluate their needs and establish a maintenance routine. Information is the best (and cheapest!) protection against leaks. Florida’s Best Roofing offers inspections with free no-nonsense estimates.
