A lack of maintenance – Your roof should be inspected annually. After any severe storm event, you should also schedule a professional inspection. There are many things that can go wrong with your roof over time, and you need to maintain it regularly. A neglected roof usually shows signs of mildew, sagging, or large holes.

Improper Repairs – A homeowner who hires someone to do the work is committing one of the worst offenses. There isn’t much you can do to prevent it except hire a reputable company. Many shady contractors bid on a job then cut corners because they will still get paid if they complete the job, and it will be a long time before anyone discovers what they did.

Ventilation – Roof and attic ventilation is an integral part of making a roof last, and occurs naturally when vents are placed near the roof’s base (the eaves or soffits) and near the roof’s top (the ridge), so hot air can escape through the top, while cool air can enter through the bottom. The movement of warm air does not require any mechanical process since it naturally rises. The attic’s temperature and moisture levels are regulated by adequate ventilation. If left unchecked, heat and moisture can build up, causing damage to rafters, sheathing, shingles, and insulation, as well as raising energy costs.

Damage caused by storms can occur during any season – summer, spring, winter, or fall. Roofing damage can be caused by hail, rain, heavy winds, lightning, or even broken branches. You should have your roof inspected following any weather-related events. You do not want to end up paying for these damages out of your own pocket because there is not much time for filing an insurance claim.

Leaky roofs – No matter what type of roof you have, if there is a leak, you have a problem. Roofs are designed to act like lids on containers. This lid keeps everything inside dry. As soon as a leak compromises that, all you can do is fix it in time to minimize the damage. Leaks can occur for a number of reasons; the concern is detecting them in time and repairing them in a timely manner.

Moisture – Generally, moisture is not a problem without a leak, but this is not always the case. Leaving moisture to build up will cause problems, especially if it is left to fester for a long time. Whenever there is moisture, mold and mildew will grow and this will cause rot. In addition, it can pose a threat to the structure of the house if it gets into the walls as well.

Poor or faulty installation – Like shoddy repair work, some roofing contractors may just be looking to make some quick cash. Even worse, someone who is not qualified to perform this type of work may take on the job. It can take years to detect a problem, but once it begins to cause problems, it is usually too late for a quick fix. The roof will probably need to be completely replaced at the very least.

Trees – Overhanging tree limbs can rub on a roof, abrading the surface of the shingles and wearing away the protective top layer. Branches can also fall on the roof creating even more serious damage. Tree limbs should be trimmed back away from the roof as much as possible and if a tree is close enough to pose a threat to your home, it should be removed.

Improperly Installed Flashing – Flashing is what seals the areas where your roof has been penetrated (like vent pipes, sky lights, chimneys and heating and cooling systems. When flashing is poorly attached, it can cause open seams and laps and ultimately cause tiles to blow-off. Improperly installed flashing can also reduce puncture resistance in your roof.

Critters – Small animals, birds and insects can cause a surprising amount of damage. It’s best to evict them before they get a foothold. One of the best ways to prevent avoidable problems with your roofing is to only work with reputable companies. Make sure they are licensed and insured and check their rating with the Better Business Bureau. If at all possible, also ask for references so you can speak to someone who used this roofing company before.

Whenever possible hire someone who has already worked with a friend, neighbor or co-worker. If they come highly recommended then you are less likely to have a problem. Just make sure to still follow up by checking to make sure they are licensed, insured and in good standing with the BBB.