The roof is a crucial component of every home because it protects the residents from harsh weather conditions and enhances the house’s aesthetic appeal. That is why homeowners must be vigilant and check for any signs of roof damage regularly. Sagging is one of the most common problems every roof experiences. It is unsightly to look at and makes your home vulnerable to additional roof damage.
Before contacting the local roofing companies in your area, it’s important to take immediate steps and fix this problem before it worsens. This way, you won’t have to deal with a complete roof replacement, a collapsed roof, and other serious damage. Here are some of the most prevalent explanations of sagging roofs and how you can fix them:
1. Poor Roof Ventilation
One of the most common causes of sagging roofs is poor ventilation. The issue starts when your attic doesn’t have enough space for heat and moisture to escape. This can cause your roof sheathing to warp and your shingles to deteriorate.
To fix poor roof ventilation, you may want to add more vents to your attic. This means having another air source coming into the attic, such as a gable vent or a ridge vent. You can also add more soffit vents, which are vents that are installed under the eaves of your roof.
2. Worn-Out Roof Shingles
Another common cause of sagging roofs is worn-out shingles. As your shingles age, they start to break down and crack. This can cause your roof to sag and your shingles to fall off.
To fix this problem, replace your old shingles with new ones. You can also include a layer of roofing felt to your roof to help protect your shingles from the elements.
3. Ice Dams
If you live in an area with a cold winter environment, you have probably experienced an ice dam on your roof. Ice dams can cause your roof to sag and shingles to fall off.
The best approach to countering ice dams is to keep your gutters and downspouts clean and debris-free. If all else fails, contact a roofing company immediately. This way, they can detect other drastic alternatives for your sagging roof early.
4. Roof Leaks
Leaks are another common cause of sagging roofs. A leaking roof happens for various reasons, such as badly installed flashing, cracked or missing shingles, damaged gutters, and poorly sealed valleys.
If you have a leaking roof, you must first find the leak’s source and fix it. If the leak is small, you may repair it yourself. However, if the leak is extensive or you can’t find the source, you’ll need to call a professional roofing contractor.
Final Thoughts
There are many causes of roof sagging, but some of the most common include weak roof decking, improper roof ventilation, and too much weight on the roof. Fortunately, there are several alternatives to fixing a sagging roof, depending on the cause.
If unsure what’s causing your roof to sag, you should consult a professional roofing company to get an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of action.
Cardinal Roof is a reliable roofing company in Birmingham, AL, that can help you with your sagging roof issues. Get in touch with us today!