Your roofing system can have a multitude of problem but we have compiled a list of the top problem areas we see in Colorado. The good part is that these common problem areas are actually fairly easy to spot and repair. Always use caution and follow proper safety procedures when climbing on your roof. If you are uncomfortable climbing on the roof, call a professional roofing company - most offer free roof inspections.
Fascia - The fascia is the trim around your roof or the front board along your roof line. This is usually a wooden board or sheet metal. This is where the gutter attaches to the roof. It's primary function is to protect the roofing system from the elements or more specifically rain. This keeps the water from getting into the inside of your home. Inspect the fascia for damage or rot.
Fascia - The fascia is the trim around your roof or the front board along your roof line. This is usually a wooden board or sheet metal. This is where the gutter attaches to the roof. It's primary function is to protect the roofing system from the elements or more specifically rain. This keeps the water from getting into the inside of your home. Inspect the fascia for damage or rot.
Soffit - This is the bottom of the roof overhang. Soffit comes from the French word "ceiling". A vented soffit will have small holes that provide air circulation that is cycled up to the vents to draw out the heat and moisture. This isn't common in Colorado so you probably won't have this style of soffit. Vinyl soffits are ideal because they wear better in Colorado weather and are durable. When inspecting your soffit, look for cracks, holes and rotting.
Flashing - The flashing is a component used to seal edges around the roofing system like the perimeter, walls, valleys, vents, chimney, skylights and other roof protrusion. The primary role of the flashing is to seal voids in the roof where water can leak into the house. This should be inspected regularly to avoid water leak problems.
Valleys - The valley is the area where the two roofs meet or come together. The valley is usually made from aluminum or galvanized steel. When you are inspecting your roofing system be careful not to step in the valleys as this can cause problems. The most common problems you will find with the valleys on your roof are deterioration and oxidation. When the seal around the flashing is broken water can penetrate the roofing system.
Flashing - The flashing is a component used to seal edges around the roofing system like the perimeter, walls, valleys, vents, chimney, skylights and other roof protrusion. The primary role of the flashing is to seal voids in the roof where water can leak into the house. This should be inspected regularly to avoid water leak problems.
Valleys - The valley is the area where the two roofs meet or come together. The valley is usually made from aluminum or galvanized steel. When you are inspecting your roofing system be careful not to step in the valleys as this can cause problems. The most common problems you will find with the valleys on your roof are deterioration and oxidation. When the seal around the flashing is broken water can penetrate the roofing system.
Gutters - Your gutters are designed to catch the water from the roof and as it drains, divert it away from the foundation. The biggest problem we see with gutters is that they get clogged from leaves, twigs and debris causing the water to overflow the gutters. The extra weight can also cause the gutters to sag and pull away from the fascia. Water constantly overflowing the gutters can cause damage to the fascia and/or the soffit. The gutters should always angle towards the downspout so that they drain properly.
Shingles - Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roof material used on homes throughout Colorado. Over time the shingles can begin to curl. A good indication that you might have a problem is the discoloration in the shingles. Broken or missing shingles will leave the wood under the shingles open to water leak problems. Shingles can also buckle or become loose during heavy windstorms. Inspecting your roof after a heavy storm or a hail storm is a good idea.
In many cases small repairs can be done which will extend the life of your roof and save you hundreds of dollars in roof replacement costs.
Shingles - Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roof material used on homes throughout Colorado. Over time the shingles can begin to curl. A good indication that you might have a problem is the discoloration in the shingles. Broken or missing shingles will leave the wood under the shingles open to water leak problems. Shingles can also buckle or become loose during heavy windstorms. Inspecting your roof after a heavy storm or a hail storm is a good idea.
In many cases small repairs can be done which will extend the life of your roof and save you hundreds of dollars in roof replacement costs.