No homeowner wants to deal with roofing problems, but bad weather, debris, UV rays, and general degradation take their toll. It's important to fix roofing problems quickly to avoid further damage and costs. The longer you wait, the more you will need to pay a residential roofer to fix your roof. This article will explain the most common reasons that roofs need repair so you know what to look for.

1. Poor Installation

According to Home 365, roof replacements can yield an 85% or more return on investment when a home is sold. That's an impressive ROI, but it won't happen if the roofing contractor you hired to handle the replacement did a poor job. Poor installations may be fine for a time, but chronic problems will start cropping up more and more. You may notice leaks in the home or higher energy bills. Sometimes, the shingles will start to come off completely.

Take your time when you're looking for the right roofer. Make sure they are fully licensed and insured. Look at online reviews and ask family or friends for recommendations. You can also call the Better Business Bureau to see if there are formal complaints lodged against the company. Most importantly, if you meet a contractor and your gut says they aren't the right choice, listen to it.

2. Leaks

One of the most common problems for any roof is leaks. High winds can blow rain at angles that get under the shingles. If any shingles are cracked or missing, water may make its way past the wood beneath and get into the home. Water damage can ruin your ceiling, drywall, floors, and more. If there is enough water damage to the roof deck, the wood will rot and you will be looking at an expensive repair to prevent a cave-in. If you spot a leak, call a roofing company quickly. Even small leaks can grow into big problems over time.

Make sure your roof is draining water properly. If you notice pools forming on the roof, then check for leaks in that area and hire a roof repair service to make sure there are no pockets for standing water. Clear your gutters regularly. The edges of your roof are the most vulnerable to damage. Gutters also carry water away from your concrete foundation, which can be even more expensive to repair than a roof.

3. Moss Growth

Moss may not seem like a concerning sign at first. However, the organic material can signify drainage issues and also eat away at the roofing material below. It often pops up in cool and damp areas that aren't exposed to the sun. You may have shade from surrounding trees or a spot on the roof that simply doesn't receive much sunlight due to the angle. As it spreads, moss will grow underneath shingles and lift them up, exposing the underneath of your roof and wooden deck below. It will attract bacteria which will form mold and degrade the shingles over time. Get a roofer to remove the material before the problem grows out of hand.

4. Wear and Tear

General degradation and age will likely lead to problems toward the end of your roof's lifespan. Years of withstanding storms, changing temperatures, and the sun's rays will add up. You may notice missing shingles, moss growth, fading, and leaking.

The lifespan depends on the roofing material you choose to install. You can usually anticipate an asphalt roof lasting a couple of decades. Slate, tile, and metal roofs could last well over 50 years, but at an increased price. If you have a roof that is reaching middle age, then get it inspected by a roofer once a year. They will help prevent issues and let you know the general state of the roof. Eventually, every home needs a roof replacement and it's important to hire a high-quality roofer.

If you need a roof replacement or roof repairs in Champaign, IL and the surrounding areas, then turn to Crown Exteriors. We are an award-winning roofing company with experience providing roofing and exterior needs for homes and businesses. We offer 24/7 emergency services, same-day services, and free estimates to any customer. For more information, call today or request an estimate online.