The Most Common Roof Issues in Fort Myers (And How to Prevent Them)

When you need roof repair done in Fort Myers, if you care about your home and your investment in it, it only makes sense to have it repaired as quickly as possible. Proactive roof maintenance will help reduce the need for a roof repair, but sooner or later, it’s going to happen. But it helps to know the most common causes so you can prevent roof damage as much as possible.

Aging Shingles

One of the biggest reasons for experiencing roof problems is simply the fact that your roofing has seen its day. It may be getting old, weak, and brittle. It may be past its warranty too, and in that case, it could be wiser to invest in roof replacement than continual, frequent repairs.

Lack Of Roof Repair

That’s right, failing to get roof repairs when needed can lead to further and more severe roof damage. A general lack of roof maintenance would also fall into this general category. An annual inspection, sweeping off the roof, and cleaning out the gutters and downspouts goes a long way!

Water And Cold Temperatures

Many homeowners have to worry about ice dams, which while a leading cause of roof damage in more northern climates is less of a problem here in the Sunshine State. You can still get an occasional cold rain with small amounts of ice, and you can still get hit with hail on rare occasions. It only takes one severe hit of this kind to damage your roof.

Wind And Storms

High winds, thunderstorms, and hurricanes can put your shingles to the test as few other things can. Choosing a material with high wind resistance will help. But you also need to get an inspection done following all major wind storms to make sure there is no hidden damage that might result in a leak later on.

High Heat

UV light and high heat during the summer eventually take their toll on a roof. Ventilating and insulating your attic will reduce the problem, and installing a radiant barrier on the attic ceiling will further reduce the impact of the sun on your roofing.

Improper Installation

Many roof repair needs are directly related to improper installation work. Roofing over old shingles is just asking for leaks and broken shingles. Not using underlayment, failing to install proper flashing as needed, using poor or no roof sealants, or failing to fasten and/or overlap shingles correctly can also lead to problems.

Walking On The Roof

Finally, homeowners sometimes damage their own roofs by walking on them. When you wear spiked shoes or walk on a roof that is very hot, it will likely get punctured at points. You could also knock granules off the shingle tops and rip a few shingles out of place. Put safety first if ever on a roof, but also wear soft but high-traction footwear and don’t go up in high heat.

The best way to avoid common roofing problems is to have your roof installed by professionals with years of experience. It’s also important to undergo ongoing maintenance and fix any problems that arise in a timely manner. If you notice any problems or want to schedule an inspection, contact the roofing professionals at Leggett Roofing today. Feel free to talk to us about roof replacement if you think your old roofing may be showing its age.