Installing a sturdy and secure roof over your head is a necessity in Tampa, Florida. To maintain the strength and the integrity of the roof is even more crucial. As a new homeowner, you must inspect the roof closely. In this article, we will go over common roofing issues in Tampa, Florida.
What are the signs that point towards an immediate roof repair?
1. Stains on the ceiling and the walls
The very first tell-tale sign of a roof leak in Tampa, Florida is a moist patch on your ceiling which proceeds to trail down the walls. This is a sure indication of water damage on your roof.
2. Mold growth in the attic
It always pays if you conduct frequent visits to your attic. A damp smell and mold growth in the nooks and corners of the attic are not good signs. This means your attic is moist and it can be because of minor or major roof leaks.
3. Rust on the window sills and door jambs
Rust is a sign of the presence of water. This water may be the result of roof leaks. So, when you notice rust on the metal parts of your windows and doors. Immediate attention is needed on the roof.
Where do you look for potential trouble?
1. Roofing material
The first and obvious place to look for an indication of trouble is the roofing material. If they are shingles or tiles, look for any exterior damage like curling of the shingles or cracking of tiles. Do not ignore any bio-growth on these materials. Missing shingles and tiles are potential water seepage points. Tiles are likely to break during hail storms and hurricanes. Take care to remedy all these as soon as possible.
2. Gutters and downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are dangerous when they are clogged. They let the water overflow and enter your roof from the periphery, causing serious water damages. Remember to clean them periodically.
3. Valleys
These are places that bear the brunt of water flow-offs. During a downpour or hurricane, a copious amount of water flows through the valleys. If the flow is very strong, it will affect the shingles and tiles which are on the sides of the valleys causing considerable damage to them. These are potential water damage sources. After heavy rains and hurricanes in Tampa, make it a point to inspect the valleys carefully.
4. Vents
Vents help circulate air through your roof. They facilitate uninhibited air circulation which keeps the attic dry and devoid of excess humidity. These vents sometimes get clogged and become useless. It will increase the humidity within the roof and deteriorate the important components of the roof structure. A periodic overhauling of roof vents is worthwhile.
5. Flashings
Flashings cover the places where various roof-top structures are installed. The metal sheets that form the cover and the sealants or roofing cement used for fixing these sheets are liable to be damaged by extreme weather conditions of Tampa, Florida.
6. Plumbing
Plumbing vents are often attached to the roof using rubber housings which can develop cracks in the extremely hot summers in Tampa, Florida. Inspect these periodically and replace them if there is a need.
What are the right ways to go about roof repairs?
1. Conduct timely mandatory roof inspections
Regular roof inspections alleviate unnecessary spending and a lot of worries. It helps to detect issues early and remedy them before they go downhill.
2. Wait for the right climatic conditions
Do not try to conduct a roof repair in dangerous conditions. Do it when the weather is dry but not too hot. Autumn is a good season for roof repair work.
3. Take the necessary precautions
Ensure the availability of adequately strong safety belts and the necessary equipment. Use these to conduct hassle-free roof repair work.
4. Distinguish between serious and minor repairs.
If the repairs tend to be serious it is better to replace the component or roof as a whole. A temporary repair will not hold out for long and soon you will have to hire a professional.
5. Do not delay
Homeowners should never postpone a roof repair once the damages are discovered. As the climate of Tampa, Florida tends to be on the extreme side, the minor roof impairments may deteriorate fast.