Is your roof looking a bit tired? Wondering what’s causing that water damage or missing shingles? As an Aussie homeowner it’s important to know the common causes of roof damage. This way you can protect your property and avoid costly repairs.
Our weather and the natural ageing process can damage your roof over time. In this article we’ll go through the 6 main causes of roof damage every Aussie should know. By knowing these and what to look out for, you can address minor issues before they escalate and necessitate replacing the entire roof. This proactive approach can keep your roof in top shape for years to come.
Quick Facts
- Weather events like high winds, hail and heavy rain can cause roof damage
- Natural ageing and lack of maintenance can cause wear and tear over time
- Poor installation or cheap materials can cause premature roof failure
- Blocked gutters and pest infestations are sneaky culprits to overlook
- Regular inspections and repairs will extend your roof’s life
So let’s get started and find out why your roof is suffering. By the end you’ll know what to look out for. Then you can take action to keep your home safe and dry.
Weather Damage and Roof Leaks
As an Aussie homeowner it’s important to know how weather can damage your roof. Storms, hail and ice can all damage your roof over time. We’ll look at how high winds, hail and ice and snow can damage your roof.
High Winds and Storms
Severe storms can cause a lot of damage to your roof. Winds over 50km/h can lift and tear shingles. This lets moisture in.
If you see missing, curled or cracked shingles after a storm, fix them quick. This will stop more wind damage to your roof.
Roof Hail Damage
Hailstorms can damage your hail damaged roof badly, causing dents, cracks and holes. Hail can weaken your roof and make it more prone to leak.
If you’ve had a hailstorm, check your roof for hail damage. Get professional repairs if you find any damage.
It is crucial to file an insurance claim promptly after experiencing hail damage. Contact your insurance company to obtain estimates and secure reimbursement for the necessary repairs.
Ice and Snow Buildup
Ice and snow can damage your roof too, although it’s less common in Australia. When snow melts and freezes again it can block water flow. Trapped water can lead to a roof leak, causing ice damage and potentially resulting in moisture accumulation, which can lead to mould infestation and further structural damage.
Regular roof checks and good attic insulation can prevent ice and snow damage.
To see how weather can damage roofs in Australia, see the table below:
| Weather Event | Potential Damage | Repair Urgency |
| High Winds and Storms | Missing, curled, or cracked shingles | High |
| Hail | Dents, cracks, and holes in shingles | Medium to High |
| Ice and Snow | Ice dams, leaks, and moisture damage | Medium |
By fixing weather related roof damage quick you can keep your home safe. If you think your roof has been damaged call a professional for a check and storm damage roof repair.
Age and Wear and Tear
Even the toughest roofs can wear out over time. Roof lifespan depends on the material used. But all roofs will need a new one eventually. Knowing when to replace your roof can save you from costly repairs.
- Asphalt shingles: 20-30 years
- Terracotta tiles: 50+
- Concrete tiles: 30-50 years
- Metal roofs: 40-70 years
When your roof is reaching the end of its life look out for:
- Cracked, curled or missing shingles or tiles
- Rust or corrosion on metal roofs
- Sagging or uneven roof deck
- Granules from asphalt shingles in gutters
- Daylight visible through the roof boards in the attic
Get a pro to check your roof regularly. They can spot problems before they get worse. Fixing small issues early can extend your roof’s life and avoid a full roof replacement too soon.
Poor Installation or Roof Repair Maintenance
Even the best roofing material can fail if not installed or maintained properly. Roof installation damage from poor work or neglect can cost a lot and shorten your roof’s life.
Poor Workmanship
Hiring an unskilled contractor can cause roof installation damage. Look out for:
- Uneven or sagging roof deck
- Improperly installed or missing flashing
- Nails in the wrong place or overdriven
- Not enough or improper sealing around vents, pipes and chimneys
Lack of Maintenance
Poor maintenance can also shorten your roof’s life. Regular checks and quick roof repairs are key to keeping your roof in good shape. Here are some important maintenance tasks:
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Trim overhanging tree branches
- Replacing damaged or missing shingles
- Sealing around vents, pipes and chimneys
Insufficient Ventilation
Insufficient roof ventilation can cause heat and moisture to build up in your attic. This can age your roofing material too quickly. Roof vents help prevent heat and UV damage by reducing heat buildup in attics, which minimizes the risk of deterioration caused by prolonged sun exposure. Good ventilation keeps your attic cool and dry and prevents damage and mold. Make sure your roof has enough vents for airflow.
Pests and Debris
Your roof faces many threats, not just the weather. Pests and debris can also damage it and cost you big time if ignored. We’ll look at how animals and tree debris can damage your roof. However, while these issues are concerning, they do not always necessitate a full roof restoration.
Animal Intrusions
Animals like rodents, birds and insects can seriously damage your roof. They can make holes or gaps and let water in and cause more damage. Common pests include:
- Rats and mice chewing through roofing material
- Birds nesting in gaps or under eaves
- Termites and carpenter ants weakening wooden structures
To stop pest damage to your roof try:
Prevention Method Description Regular inspections Look for animal signs and fix problems quickly Seal entry points Block gaps, holes or cracks to keep animals out Trim nearby trees Keep animals from reaching your roof with branches
Tree Branches and Leaves
Tree branches and leaves can also damage your roof. Branches can scratch or dent shingles and leaves can trap moisture and cause leaks. To minimize damage:
- Trim trees near your home to prevent branch contact
- Remove leaves and debris from your roof and gutters
- Consider gutter guards to stop debris buildup
By addressing animals and tree debris early you can save your roof. This will avoid costly repairs from pest and debris damage.
Identifying Roof Damage
Identifying roof damage can be a challenging task, especially for homeowners who are not familiar with the signs and symptoms of roof damage. However, it is essential to identify roof damage early on to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
Signs of Roof Damage
There are several signs of roof damage that homeowners should be aware of. These include:
- Missing or Damaged Shingles: If you notice that some of your roof shingles are missing or damaged, it may be a sign of roof damage. Missing shingles can leave your roof exposed to the elements, leading to further damage.
- Cracked or Split Shingles: Cracked or split shingles can be a sign of roof damage, especially if they are caused by large hailstones. This type of damage can compromise the structural integrity of your roof.
- Dents in Metal Roofing Material: If you have a metal roof, dents in the material can be a sign of roof damage. Dents can weaken the roof and make it more susceptible to leaks.
- Cosmetic Damage: Cosmetic damage to your roof, such as cracks or breaks in the roof material, can compromise the structural integrity of your roof. Even minor damage can lead to significant problems if left unaddressed.
- Leaks: Leaks are a common sign of roof damage, and they can cause significant damage to your home if left unchecked. Look for water stains on your ceiling or walls as an indication of a leaking roof.
- Water Damage: Water damage can be a sign of roof damage, especially if it is caused by a leak in the roof. This can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can be hazardous to your health.
- Sagging Roof: A sagging roof can be a sign of structural damage, which can be caused by roof damage. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
- Daylight Showing Through the Roof Boards: If you can see daylight showing through the roof boards, it may be a sign of roof damage. This indicates that there are gaps or holes in your roof that need to be repaired.
By being aware of these signs, you can identify roof damage early and take action to prevent further issues. Regular inspections and maintenance are key to keeping your roof in good condition.
Roof Leaks and Water Damage
Roof leaks and water damage can be a significant problem for homeowners. Roof leaks can cause extensive damage to your home, including damage to the walls, ceilings, and floors. Water damage can also lead to mold and mildew growth, which can be hazardous to your health.
We’ll deal with your roof problems for you
But wait – there is some good news! All of these issues can be minimised with regular roof inspections, proper maintenance, prompt repairs of minor issues, well-devised ventilation, quality installation and regular cleaning. And the even better news is that Rapid Service Plumbing is your friendly Sydney roof plumber who can handle it all and even more including:
- Gutter repair/replacement
- Gutter guard installation
- Downpipe repairs
- Roof flashing repairs
- Fascia repairs & replacement
- Full metal roof replacement
- Roof inspections and so much more.
We’re even available 24/7 for emergency plumbing and storm damage repairs, making us your one-stop shop for all of your plumbing, hot water, gas fitting, roof services and other general household and commercial plumbing needs and more. Get in touch with Rapid Service Plumbing today for a no-obligation quote.
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