A roof that is always wet is likely to experience more problems than a roof that is mostly dry. Here are some reasons for keeping your roof dry, and how you can do it.
Dangers of Roof Moisture
The dangers of a constantly wet roof range from minor annoyances to serious structural problems. Below are some of them.
Coating Deterioration
Most roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, are coated with protective materials. The protective materials prevent weather-related damage, such as UV (ultraviolet) damage. However, constant water exposure can deteriorate the protective coatings and expose the roof to damage.
Corrosion and Decay
Moisture is an agent of corrosion and decay; it makes metal corrodes and wood to rots. Wood and metal are common roofing materials, which mean constant exposure of your roof to moisture can weaken the main roofing materials.
Algae and Moss Growth
Algae and moss thrive in moist places. Both algae and moss can discolor your roof and interfere with your curb appeal, as well as the resale value of your home. Extreme algae and moss growth also accelerate the deterioration of the roofing materials.
Pest Infestation
Lastly, a roof that is wet all the time can also attract pests. For example, many insects prefer moist places to dry places. An insect infestation may lead to infestation from bigger animals that feed on the smaller ones.
Tips for a Dry Roof
The above things should be enough motivation for homeowners to keep their roofs dry as much as possible. Here are a few tips to help you keep the roof dry.
Proper Drainage
Ensure your roof is designed with proper drainage channels, especially if the roof is flat since flat roofs tend to have drainage problems. Ensure the drainage channels are always clear. For example, don't install things on the roof that can block water flow.
Regular Cleaning
Dirt and debris on the roof will retain moisture and delay drying. Therefore, clean your roof regularly to help it stay dry.
Trimmed Trees
It's always a good idea to leave some space between trees and the house. If you have trees growing too close to the house, they may shade the roof and reduce its drying time.
Ice Dam Prevention
Lastly, you should also prevent ice dams if you want your roof to be dry all the time. This means proper roof insulation, proper ventilation, avoiding heat sources in the attic, and keeping the gutters clean, among other measures.
For more information, contact a roofer in your area.
Share23 August 2019
When it came time to install a new roof on my home, I had no idea where to start. In fact, I was exploring roofing options that were a really poor fit in my climate. It wasn't until I reached out to a local roofer that I got some lessons on how to choose the right roofing material for my home and the weather exposure it is subjected to. I built this site to share my journey, including the mistakes I made and the things that I learned along the way. If you are considering replacing your home's roof, I hope that the information here can help to guide you through the process.
