According to statistics, quality roofing can last 20 to 50 years, with some lasting even longer. But, the weather, materials, and the installation process will dictate its lifespan.
A worn or damaged roof is one of the most challenging issues you can face. But, most people give little attention to their roofing in Boise since they expect it to hold up for long without issues.
Note that your roof will start giving you clues you must act on fast when it needs some attention.
Keep reading to know the most common roofing problems in Boise, Idaho.
The Best Roofing Materials to Consider for Your Home in Boise
Before considering the roofing problems in Boise, let’s first comprehend the best roofing materials. Note that each roofing material you pick for your home will have unique aesthetics and functionality.
The roofing materials you can have in your home in Boise include:
Metal Panels
If you decide to have steel or aluminum roofing, you can expect it to last up to 50 years. But, zinc or copper roofing can last for about 100 years.
Metal panels have a unique aesthetic with above-average durability. The roofing material is also easy to install and maintain but comes with additional costs.
But one drawback you can expect from metal panels is the excess noise. That’s because rain and hail falling on your roofing will result in repetitive tapping sounds.
Asphalt Shingles
You can expect your asphalt shingles to offer you an attractive aesthetic for 20 to 25 years. Most people often think about asphalt shingles when considering their residential roofing options.
That makes asphalt shingles the most common roofing material for homes in Boise. Asphalt shingles are of very high quality and have the look and durability of other high-end materials.
Cedar Shakes
Cedar shakes have a unique aesthetic and are very durable. The roof can last 30 to 40 years without you having to worry about repairing any roof damage.
But, to enjoy your roofing for long, you need to seal them to prevent water and sun damage. The roofing option is good at insulation and heat and cold prevention and has a low maintenance cost.
Expect your cedar shakes to catch everybody’s attention with their textured look.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles are more like standard asphalt. But, they have polymers that enhance their durability.
Boise’s roofing and restoration companies say that architectural shingles can last between 25 and 30 years. The roofing option will look great in many homes since they come in various styles and colors.
They will accommodate any house idea, whether a small ranch house or a big mansion.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles have a unique aesthetic and are durable, lasting over 100 years. The roofing option needs minimal maintenance since they’re resistant to sunlight and rain.
The drawback to expect from clay tiles is that they are very vulnerable to physical trauma.
Now that you know the different roofing materials let’s now consider some of the roofing problems. With our guide, roofing problems will never catch you off-guard.
The typical roofing problems in Boise include:
A Leaking roof
Boise experiences rainstorms, making your roofing susceptible to leaks due to excessive rainfall. Visible leaks indicate you need to consult with one of the few roofing companies in Boise, ID.
Roofing leaks are often due to damaged tiles/shingles, or you can even have broken flashing. Also, normal wear and tear can cause roofing leaks.
An excellent way to inspect your roofing for leaks is by checking around the gutters, flashing points, and close to the pipes and vents. You have a leaking roof if you notice wet spots, damaged wallpaper, or discoloration.
Never ignore roof leaks since water damage causes foundation problems. Also, termites and other creatures thrive well under wet conditions and can cause mold and mildew health risks.
Water Pools on the Roof
On top of roofing leaks, water pools on your roof will cause water damage to your home. Water pools are more common on flat roofs and those with divots.
If the water pools freeze, they can stay on your roof for a very long time. Also, the weight of the frozen water will make the roofing sag, creating a chance for significant leaks.
Note that your roof will also wear down faster, so ensure you talk with a Boise roofing company when you notice water pools on your roof. The expert will advise you on the best gutter system installation to help drain the roof’s water effectively.
Missing Shingles
Missing shingles are another sign you have a roofing problem. Walk around your front and back yard, keeping your eyes on the ground to spot any fallen shingles.
Another way is by checking your roof for gaps from missing shingles. An uneven or sagging roof is a sign you have eroded shingles or asphalt.
Note that missing shingles are more than an aesthetic issue. Aging and wearing off might force you to undertake a roof repair in Boise, ID, to prevent leakages in your home.
Apart from missing shingles, you can also have lifted shingles, flashing, and tiles. By noting them early, you will have the option to nail them down back to their original state or replace them entirely.
Damage From Trees
We all know that once a tree falls on your house, you will need the services of a roofing contractor in Boise. But, do you know trees, especially those with long branches, will do more damage to your roof?
Branches might begin rubbing up against or resting on your roof. The branches can knock off the flashing or shingles from your roof, damaging your yard and adding a more severe safety hazard.
Always trim your trees and remove the branches that look like they will fall off.
Shrinking and Cracking
You’ll likely deal with roof expansion and shrinkage if your roofing material is not very water-resistant. The roof expansion and shrinkages cause cracking, deterioration, and ridges.
The effects cause major structural issues causing the roof to sag. Note that the situation can get out of control if you don’t take care of it quickly.
If you have a synthetic rubber roof, it is more prone to shrinkage. Commercial roofing Boise Idaho knows the best material to avoid roof shrinkage and cracking.
Snow and Ice Problems
Most Idaho residents experience ice and snow damage to their roofing. That’s especially so during cold winters when you will have snow piling up on your roof for a long time.
You have to do your best during winter to keep everything under control. Once the snow melts, you will have a lot of water on your roof, increasing the chances of water damage.
If you have cracks on your roofing and water freezes in the cracks, you will be in some serious trouble. That’s because your roof shingles will begin to lift.
The weight of the ice will also pull down the roof, weighing down the gutters. Ensure you properly maintain your roof before winter.
Problems With Your Gutters
Not properly maintaining your gutters will cause significant problems with your roof. When you have a clogged downspout, the gutter will start to backup, and vegetation can grow inside your gutter.
The vegetation on your gutter will cause water damage to your fascia, making the rafter tails rot. Water flow can also reach your windows which causes more problems.
Always ensure you annually inspect your gutters. During your inspection, you will need a ladder, a garden trowel, and a bucket to scoop the twigs and leaves on your roof.
You can also have a hose to flush away the debris on your roofing. A roof repair in Boise, ID, will help if you have old gutters.
Also, ensure the attachment between the fascia and gutter is solid and always replace hangers when needed.
Moss Growth
When portions of your roofing do not experience enough sunlight, there will be patches of moss on those areas. Moss is a huge problem for most homeowners, though some love greener houses.
The moss can get under shingles and break the seal to cause leakages. Also, moss will trigger decay on your cedar or asphalt shingles.
But, there are a few ways you can deal with roofing moss. Strips of copper or zinc between the shingle courses will prevent moss growth.
If you already have moss on your old roof, you must manually remove it. Have a ladder, a hose, and a long-handled scrub brush to remove the moss patches on your roof.
But, there are some commercial sprays you can use to kill moss. Also, if you like, you make a moss spray by mixing liquid laundry bleach and water.
Problems With the Vent Boots
There can be a development of cracks or tears on the rubber boots around the plumbing vents. If there is no issue with the aluminum flashing, replace the boot alone.
Choose a boot whose diameter fits the vent pipe if you want to replace the flashing. You can find flashing that has adjustable boots.
To fix the issue, use a flat bar to expose the front edge of the flashing. Then, lift the boot’s base from the pipe and apply your roof sealant to the new flashing underside.
Slide it on the pipe and between the pipe and the shingle course. Replace the old nails with those with neoprene washers and seal any exposed heads.
Improper Boise Roofing Maintenance
Taking good care of your roofing will extend its life up to 50 years. Most roofing Boise ID companies suggest you have an expert inspection at least twice yearly.
Your Boise roofing company can help you make a standard inspection schedule. Ensure you always inspect your roofing for any damage signs after windy days or a storm.
Check on the gutters to see if there are many roof granules. Ensure you promptly deal with any issue you encounter during your roof inspection.
Failure to tackle the issues will result in a complete Boise roofing replacement which can be very costly.
DIY Disasters
There are many DIY home improvement fails, but any roof-related needs urgent expert assistance. Any DIY roof repair failure will pose many safety risks to you and your family.
When you get up there and don’t know about the roof repair, you’re risking falling and injuring yourself. You might also lack the necessary equipment for a proper roof repair in Boise, ID meaning you will do an ineffective repair.
So, consider leaving your roofing repair to the expert.
Light from the Attic
Another way to notice issues with your roofing in Boise is by checking from inside your house. Make sure it’s dark inside, but there is some sunlight outside.
Climb the attic and check if you can see any light source from outside. If you spot any light sources, that’s a concern since it means water can also come in through the holes allowing light.
There could be loose flashing besides having holes in your roof. Consult with a roofing expert to fix the problem fast.
You Now Know the Common Problems With Roofing in Boise
The above tips will help you comprehend the severity of the problems with roofing in Boise. Failing to take care of even minor problems can make them quickly go out of control.
Never attempt to handle any roofing Boise repairs on your own. Instead, consult with the best roofing and restoration experts in Idaho.
At Point Roofing & Restoration, we have a rating of A+ with the Better Business Bureau. We will ensure you have quality roofing repairs.
Contact us now to handle your roofing repairs in Boise, Idaho.
