Long Island has beautiful beaches, bustling cities, and charming suburbs. But it’s also prone to harsh weather conditions that can take a toll on roofs. Winter storms and summer squalls can cause many different types of roofing damage.
As a homeowner on Long Island, it’s important to be aware of the common roof problems that can arise and how to address them. In this article, we’ll discuss the top roof problems on Long Island and how to handle them.
Leaks
One of the most common roof problems on Long Island is leaks. With heavy rain, snow, and wind, it’s not uncommon for roofs to develop leaks over time. These leaks can cause damage to the interior of your home, including walls, ceilings, and even electrical systems.
The best way to avoid leaks is a proper roof installation. Poor installation is one of the most common causes of roof leaks. Roofing contractors must make sure the roof deck, flashing, vents, chimney, and shingles are all installed properly. Any workmanship failures will almost always lead to leaks.
As your roof materials age, they start breaking down. This can lead to roof leaks that will cause structural damage if ignored too long. You can repair leaks as they happen but sooner or later you will need to think about roof replacement for older roofs.
If you notice signs of water damage on your ceiling or walls, you should address the issue immediately. Contact a professional roof repair company to assess the damage and make necessary repairs.
Shingle Damage
Another common issue with roofs on Long Island is shingle damage. Strong winds and heavy rain can cause roof shingles to become loose or even blow off completely. This can leave your roof vulnerable to leaks and other damage.
Blistering is another common issue with asphalt shingles, especially during the summer. Moisture trapped within the shingle expands and pops through the surface. Left untreated, blistering can lead to leaks and ultimately roof failure.
One of the most common causes of blistering is poor roof ventilation caused by improper installation. Your roofing contractor must be sure your roof system has adequate airflow and proper ventilation. Long Island’s maritime climate is merciless to roofing mistakes.
Regular roof inspections ensure that you replace any blistered, missing, or damaged shingles as soon as possible. Ignoring shingle damage can lead to more costly repairs down the line.
Ice Dams
During the winter months, Long Island can experience freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall. This can lead to the formation of ice dams on roofs. Ice dams can occur when snow melts during the day, then refreezes during the night when the temperatures drop again below freezing.
This leads to ice blocking the edge of the roof, making runoff impossible. After several days of thaws and freezes, the meltwater can work its way under the shingles. If left unnoticed, this can cause serious ceiling and wall damage.
Installing proper attic insulation and ventilation is the best way to prevent ice dams. Make sure that the soffit area along the underside of the roof and the air vents are clear. You can also use a long-handled roof rake to keep your roof clear.
A roof rake lets you pull excess snow off the roof and clear snow and icicles from the gutters and downspouts.
Tree Damage
With its abundance of trees, Long Island is also prone to tree damage on roofs. Strong winds and storms can cause branches to fall onto roofs, causing damage to shingles and even puncturing the roof. Keep the trees near your home trimmed to prevent this type of damage.
If a tree falls on your roof, clear the building immediately. The damage from the tree striking the roof is just the beginning. A fallen tree’s weight can further damage the roof’s structural integrity. Contact 911 and take all necessary steps to ensure your building is safe before you return.
If there is serious damage, you’ll need contractor experienced in dealing with insurance companies. An experienced roofing contractor can work with insurers, adjusters, and attorneys to provide all necessary documentation.
Even if your building gets a clean bill of health, you should get a professional roofing investigation. A certified roofer can spot minor damage and take care of it before it becomes a problem.
Aging Roofs
Long Island’s harsh weather conditions can prematurely age a roofing system. If your roof is over 20 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement. Contact a reputable roofing company to assess the condition of your roof and provide recommendations for replacement.
Rising utility bills can be a sign that your roof needs work. Older, damaged roofs can no longer effectively insulate your home. That means your HVAC system needs to work harder. You’ll often see utility bill spikes before you notice leaks or shingle damage.
By being aware of these common roof problems on Long Island, you can take the necessary steps to prevent and address them. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help extend the life of your roof and protect your home from damage.
If you need roof repair or roof replacement on Long Island, reach out to County Roofing. We have over 35 years of roofing experience and we’ll be happy to talk more about your roofing needs.
