top of page

Most common problems with residential roofs

Home roofs are exposed to various environmental factors, wear and tear, and potential structural issues over time. Here are the most common problems homeowners face with roofs:


1. Leaks and Water Damage

  • Causes:

    • Damaged shingles or tiles.

    • Cracked flashing or seals around vents, chimneys, or skylights.

    • Poor drainage or clogged gutters.

  • Signs:

    • Water stains on ceilings or walls.

    • Dripping water during rainstorms.

    • Mold or mildew growth inside the home.


2. Missing or Damaged Shingles/Tiles

  • Causes:

    • High winds or storms.

    • Hail damage.

    • Aging and natural wear.

  • Signs:

    • Bare patches on the roof.

    • Shingles curling, cracking, or splitting.


3. Ponding Water

  • Causes:

    • Poor roof slope or drainage design.

    • Debris blocking drainage points.

  • Signs:

    • Water pools visible after rain.

    • Structural sagging in flat roofs.


4. Ice Dams

  • Causes:

    • Poor attic insulation or ventilation.

    • Melting snow refreezing at roof edges.

  • Signs:

    • Icicles hanging from gutters.

    • Water leaks during the winter months.


5. Damaged Flashing

  • Causes:

    • Corrosion or improper installation around vents, chimneys, or skylights.

    • Aging or extreme weather.

  • Signs:

    • Gaps or cracks in flashing.

    • Water seeping into roof seams or joints.


6. Gutter and Downspout Problems

  • Causes:

    • Clogs from leaves, debris, or ice.

    • Poorly secured or damaged gutters.

  • Signs:

    • Water overflowing during rain.

    • Damage to the fascia or soffit.


7. Ventilation Issues

  • Causes:

    • Inadequate or blocked roof vents.

    • Poor attic insulation leading to condensation.

  • Signs:

    • Increased energy bills due to poor temperature regulation.

    • Mold or mildew growth in the attic.


8. Moss, Algae, and Lichen Growth

  • Causes:

    • Shaded or humid environments.

    • Accumulation of organic debris on the roof.

  • Signs:

    • Green or black streaks on shingles.

    • Uneven patches on the roof surface.


9. Structural Damage

  • Causes:

    • Heavy snow or ice buildup.

    • Falling tree limbs or debris.

    • Poor initial construction.

  • Signs:

    • Sagging roofline.

    • Cracks in the roof decking.


10. Aging and Material Deterioration

  • Causes:

    • Natural wear and tear over decades.

    • Exposure to UV rays and temperature fluctuations.

  • Signs:

    • Granules from shingles in gutters.

    • Shingles becoming brittle or discolored.


11. Poor Installation

  • Causes:

    • Unqualified contractors.

    • Using substandard materials or improper techniques.

  • Signs:

    • Frequent leaks or loose shingles.

    • Uneven or bumpy roof surface.


12. Skylight and Chimney Issues

  • Causes:

    • Failed seals around skylights.

    • Cracked chimney crowns or loose flashing.

  • Signs:

    • Leaks or drafts near skylights or chimneys.

    • Visible gaps or deterioration around these features.


13. Animal or Pest Damage

  • Causes:

    • Birds, squirrels, or raccoons nesting.

    • Insects burrowing into wood components.

  • Signs:

    • Holes or gnaw marks on the roof or soffits.

    • Animal droppings in the attic.


14. Cracked or Missing Caulking

  • Causes:

    • Weathering or improper application.

  • Signs:

    • Visible gaps in sealed areas.

    • Water infiltration near sealed joints.


15. Excessive Granule Loss

  • Causes:

    • Aging shingles.

    • Harsh weather like hailstorms.

  • Signs:

    • Granules visible in gutters or downspouts.

    • Bald patches on asphalt shingles.


Maintenance Tips to Prevent Roof Problems

  1. Inspect Regularly: Check for visible signs of damage twice a year and after major storms.

  2. Clean Gutters: Ensure water flows freely to prevent leaks and structural issues.

  3. Trim Nearby Trees: Prevent branches from damaging shingles or creating debris.

  4. Ensure Proper Ventilation: Keep attic vents unblocked to regulate temperature and prevent condensation.

  5. Repair Promptly: Address small issues quickly to avoid more significant, costly repairs.

  6. Hire Professionals: Use qualified contractors for installation and major repairs.

Get virtual help with DIY jobs with our xPorch App

app_call_screen.PNG

xPorch © 2025

Ask Us Anything!

Get help from a virtual expderts to fix your home renovation

xPorch offers homeowners the power to complete basic DIY repairs and renovations without spending hundreds of dollars on service calls. With xPorch, DIYers are a couple of clicks aways from connecting with experienced plumbers, electricians, and contractors. Our team offers on-demand virtual services around the year around all Canadian provinces.

 

  • Instagram
  • Facebook

Terms & Conditions    Privacy Policy  

bottom of page