There are many parts of a building that will suffer from ageing and damage over time, resulting in the need for repairs or replacements. Given it will be acting as a first line of defence, it’s perhaps not surprising that roofing issues are by far the biggest area of insurance and warranty claims. Whether it’s accidental or just a matter of wear and tear, these are some of the common problems that can arise with damaged roofs.
Water damage
Damage caused by excessive amounts of water is a common problem. If your roof has weak points, or has not been efficiently weather-proofed, water can seep through cracks and make its way into the interior of your loft. Depending on the nature and severity of the leak, the water damage caused can lead to further repair costs. If left unnoticed for too long, it can cause serious structural damage and drastically reduce the integrity of your roofs support beams. It can also result in damages to the interior of your house and your personal possessions.
Devaluing
If you’re planning on selling your property or you’re hoping to rent out your second home, the state of the roof can have a big impact on its value. An old roof in need of replacement will not only function poorly, but will also look bad. If you have damages that have been left unfixed or issues that could potentially lead to problems further down the line, it will make it much harder to find a willing buyer. Maintaining a well-kept roof is an essential part of maximising the value of your property and ensuring that you get the most out of your investment.
Health issues
Many people don’t realise this, but roofs play a big part in the heat distribution and airflow within a house. As hot air travels upwards, it will escape through the roof. This means that if you don’t have efficient ventilation in your loft, you may suffer from a build-up of moisture which will result in issues such as damp and mould. These can have a terrible effect on your health and can cause respiratory issues, particularly in young children.
Fire risk
If your roof is insufficiently protected against the elements, there’s a real risk that water may find its way to the inside of your house and come in contact with live electrical components. For example, many homes rely on electricity that comes in from the side of the house, or is roof-channelled into the panel box.
If this were to happen, the resulting fire could cause huge amounts of damage and potentially harm you or your family. Luckily, there are many ways, including regular roof maintenance checks, that should be carried out to prevent this.
Need more help?
For expert help and advice on roofing maintenance speak to our friendly team today on 01226 670 008