As a homeowner, your roof is one of the most important components of your house. It provides crucial protection from the elements and helps maintain your home’s structural integrity. However, it is easy to take your roof for granted until problems arise. To keep your roof in top shape and identify issues early, it is helpful to understand the different roofing materials commonly used and what to look out for.
Asphalt Shingles
One of the most popular residential roofing options is asphalt shingles due to their affordability and versatility. Constructed from materials like fiberglass, asphalt shingles are durable, fire-resistant, and available in a variety of colors and styles. However, extreme weather conditions can cause damage and wear. Signs of aging asphalt shingles include cracked, curling, or missing shingles which should be repaired immediately to prevent leaks.
Slate or Tile Roofs
Slate or tile roofs are known for their elegant aesthetics and longevity, often lasting over 50 years. Tile roofs shed water and debris effectively given their smooth surface. However, damaged or missing tiles can allow water intrusion and interior damage. After stormy weather, do a thorough inspection to identify any cracked, broken or loose tiles in need of replacement.
Standing Seam Metal Roofs
Standing seam metal roofs have gained popularity in recent years for their sleek look and energy efficiency. The interlocking panels are structured to withstand high winds and rarely leak when installed correctly. However, metal roofs are liable to dents from hail or fallen tree limbs which should be promptly fixed to prevent rusting. Also check for loose seam fasteners over time.
Flat Roof Structures
For flat roof structures, TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) is an increasingly common waterproof membrane chosen for its durability and ability to withstand weather extremes. However, punctures or excessive ponding water can lead to leakage over time. Schedule annual inspections and make sure drains, scuppers and gutters are cleared to prevent water buildup.
Watch Out for These Common Roof Issues
Regardless of which material your roof is made of, you’ll want to keep an eye out for these common roof issues:
- Discolored or streaked shingles may indicate moisture damage, mold growth or roof age. Have a professional inspect and replace affected areas if needed.
- Sagging roof decking or rafters often results from excess moisture accumulation and deteriorated materials. Reinforce or replace weakened areas immediately before further collapse.
- Leaks caused by damage, poor drainage or flashing failures can progress to interior water damage, mold growth and structural issues if unchecked. Even small leaks should be repaired quickly.
- Excess roof debris like leaves and branches accelerates wear and can clog drains, causing water backup. Regular cleaning improves roof performance and lifespan.
- Cracked or loose cement and mortar around chimneys, skylights and vents allows water intrusion and should be resealed and tightened.
By educating yourself about different roofing materials and regularly inspecting your roof, you can catch problems early and take proactive repair measures. However, if you notice any severe issues, don’t hesitate to call a professional roofing contractor for an inspection and repair recommendations. With proper care and maintenance, your roof can reliably protect your home for years to come. Let us know if we can help you assess and resolve any roofing concerns!
About Code Engineered Systems
Code Engineered Systems is a family owned & operated roofing company in Tampa. We provide both residential roofing and commercial roofing services and have decades of experience in roof replacements and roof repairs on all types of roofing systems including asphalt shingle roofs, tile roofs, metal roofs, and all types of flat roofs. Our roofing company is owned and managed by Russell Dodson and Tim Hutchinson who together have a combined experience of over 70 years in the roofing industry building a strong reputation in Tampa since the 1970’s. Russell has spent nearly 30 years mostly in the commercial side of the roofing industry while Tim started his roofing career back in 1976 primarily working in the residential side of the roofing industry.
Our reputation in the roofing industry in the Tampa Bay area is extremely important to us. We understand that providing consistent professional and quality roofing work & customer service is the key to the long-term success of our family roofing company in Tampa. We rely heavily on word of mouth and customer referrals as the most effective form of advertising and consider every single roof replacement or roof repair we do as an investment in our company’s reputation. We have always felt honored when our customers choose us for their roofing needs and are dedicated to returning the favor by providing the best experience possible including being there for them long after the job has been completed and paid for. With decades of roofing experience and thousands of roofing jobs completed all over the Tampa Bay Area, you can feel confident that you are hiring highly experienced roofing professionals who care. If you would like to schedule your free roof estimate please give us a call at 813-373-9088 or fill out our FREE ESTIMATE FORM.
We provide roofing services for all of Hillsborough County & Pinellas County, including Tampa, Riverview, Apollo Beach, Brandon, Plant City, St. Petersburg, Largo, & Clearwater.
