Common Roof Types

Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Common Issues with Shingle Roofs

Roof Age: As shingle roofs age, the materials can degrade, become brittle, and lose their ability to effectively repel water, increasing the risk of leaks.

Missing Shingles: If shingles are missing or damaged, it exposes the underlying roof deck to water infiltration.

Damaged Shingles: Cracked, curled, or broken shingles can allow water to seep beneath them and into the roof structure.

Poor Installation: Shingles must be installed according to manufacturer guidelines. Improper installation techniques, such as incorrect nailing or inadequate sealing, can lead to leaks.

Flashing Problems: Flashing around roof penetrations like chimneys, vents, and skylights, as well as along roof edges and valleys, must be properly installed and maintained. Damaged or improperly installed flashing can cause leaks.

Poor Ventilation: Inadequate attic ventilation can lead to moisture buildup, which can weaken shingles and cause them to deteriorate prematurely, leading to leaks.

Metal Roofs

Common Issues with Metal Roofs

Improper Installation: If the metal panels, flashing, or fasteners are not installed correctly, it can create gaps or weak points where water can penetrate the roof system.

Loose Fasteners: Over time, the fasteners used to secure the metal panels to the roof deck can become loose due to thermal expansion and contraction, wind uplift, or simple wear and tear. Loose fasteners can allow water to seep into the roof assembly.

Metal Fatigue: Metal roofs can experience fatigue over time, especially in areas with frequent temperature fluctuations or exposure to severe weather conditions. This fatigue can lead to cracks, holes, or deterioration of the metal surface, allowing water to penetrate.

Seam Failure: If the seams between metal panels are not properly sealed or if the sealant deteriorates over time, it can create openings for water infiltration. Expansion and contraction of the metal can also cause seams to pull apart or become misaligned, leading to leaks.

Condensation: In certain conditions, condensation can form on the underside of metal roofs, especially if there is inadequate insulation or ventilation. Over time, this moisture buildup can lead to corrosion and eventually cause leaks.

Corrosion: Metal roofs can corrode, particularly in coastal areas or regions with high levels of air pollution. Corrosion weakens the metal and can create holes or perforations through which water can enter.

Membrane Rubber Roofs (EPDM)

Common Issues with Membrane Roofs

Age: Over time, EPDM roofing can degrade due to exposure to sunlight, temperature fluctuations, and weather conditions. As it ages, the material can become brittle and prone to cracking, leading to leaks.

Punctures or Tears: Sharp objects such as branches, tools, or debris can puncture or tear the EPDM membrane, creating openings for water to penetrate.

Poor Installation: Improper installation techniques, such as inadequate seam sealing or insufficient adhesive application, can leave weak points in the roof system that are prone to leaks.

Seam Failure: EPDM roofs are often installed in large sheets that require seams to be sealed. If these seams are not properly sealed or if the adhesive deteriorates over time, leaks can occur along the seams.

Standing Water: Ponding water on the roof surface can put excessive stress on the EPDM membrane and compromise its integrity, leading to leaks.

Flashing Issues: Improperly installed or damaged flashing around roof penetrations such as vents, chimneys, or HVAC units can allow water to infiltrate the roof system.

Membrane Damage: Exposure to harsh chemicals, oils, or solvents can damage the EPDM membrane, causing it to deteriorate and develop leaks.

HVAC Unit Damage: Foot traffic and maintenance activities around HVAC units installed on the roof can cause damage to the EPDM membrane if proper precautions are not taken.