What Causes a Roof to Deteriorate?
• Sun – Heat and ultraviolet rays cause roofing materials to age, especially on surfaces facing west or south. • Rain – Water that gets underneath shingles or other roofing materials can cause the decking (base) and rafters to rot, threatening a home’s structural integrity. Moisture entering a house can damage walls, ceilings, insulation and electrical systems. • Wind – High winds can lift shingles’ edges and force water and debris underneath. • Snow and Ice – Melting snow often refreezes at a roof’s overhang where the surface is cooler, forming an ice dam. This blocks proper drainage into the gutter and allows water to back up under roofing materials and seep into the interior. • Condensation – Moisture in poorly ventilated attics can lead to condensation that promotes decay of roof decking and rafters. • Trees/Leaves – Tree branches touching or falling onto a roof can damage the roofing materials. Leaves on the roof and in gutters retain moisture and could cause rot and poor gutter d
