Roofing Problems: Warning Signs

The following images will help you identify the potential for roof failure.  Or call us and we will help you with the inspection.

Bare Spots

Bare SpotsThe protective granular surface of shingles wears off as the asphalt, into which the granules are embedded, begins to harden over time. Bare spots are often accompanied by fine fissures on the shingles’ surface and by the accumulation of granules in the gutters.

Curling

CurlingThe upward curling of shingle tabs makes them highly susceptible to wind and ice damage. This is a problem on older roofs where moisture build-up in the attic affects the underside of the shingle.

Broken Shingles

Broken ShinglesDamage can be caused by extreme wind conditions and snow removal. Since shingles are supposed to shed water, broken, torn or missing tabs become obvious entry points for water, especially on low slope roofs where run-off is slower and at the peaks of the roof where shingles are the most vulnerable to high winds.

Clawing

ClawingThis is the curling under of the shingle tab’s bottom edge and is part of the normal aging process of shingles. The bulge created is susceptible to substantial damage by wind action, hail and ice.

Buckling

BucklingBuckling is a visible distortion or waviness in the horizontal lines of shingles, and usually runs in a straight line up the roof slope. Shingle tabs become exposed to wind and can be torn off. Very often, the problem is warping in the roof deck caused by poor attic ventilation. The use of thinner-than recommended plywood and other non-plywood materials adds to the problem.

Flashing

FlashingMany problems occur at the flashings around vents, soil stacks, chimneys and vertical wall joints. Is the flashing cracked? Is the caulking around the flashing dried out? Are the shingles that lie over the flashing in good shape?

Thanks to Building Products of Canada for supplying the images and text.

Don’t ignore that crumbling brick

Is your home more than 10 years old? Take a moment to do a walk-around – your chimney, the window sills, doorways, garage doors and piers. See any crumbling brick faces that appear to have fallen off?

Northern Building Services can handle all your masonry needs:
Tuckpointing
Window sills (brick or stone)
Flagstones
Formed concrete (porches, stairs, walkways, retaining walls)
Chimney repair or rebuild
Brick replacement
Foundation waterproofing

How do I ensure a properly executed window sill replacement?

A properly executed window sill replacement can extend the life of your older windows by preventing further rot in and around the windows. Be sure to properly seal and paint your windows on a regular basis and you will not have to worry about another window sill replacement for a long time.

Whether you have your heart set on a new design or your sills are falling apart, we are your window sill replacement experts.