Roof Problems Often Start In The Valleys
Roof problems have a habit of snowballing. In other words, a roof problem tends to start off small but then intensifies and worsens over time, becoming more expensive and extensive to fix. One of the most common areas for roof problems to begin is in the valleys. After all, this is where water tends to settle and cause damage first. Here's what you need to know about roof valley problems and how they can be repaired.
Detecting Problems in Roof Valleys
If you can see your roof's valleys from the ground, then you're in luck since most problems will be detectable from the ground. If you can't see your roof valleys from the ground, then consider climbing up a ladder to get a better look. Only do this if you feel safe and confident doing so, and if you have someone else around to hold the ladder as you climb.
As you look down the roof valley, the key issues you're looking for are peeling flashing and deteriorating shingles. Flashing is the metal that runs along the bottom of the roof valleys. If it is rusted, pitted, or lifted, you can consider it to be damaged. If the flashing has been damaged for a while, you may also notice other issues, such as lifted or cracked shingles along the edge of the flashing. Other problems to note include mold, moss, or algae in the valley.
Repairing Damaged Roof Valleys
If you do notice any issues in the roof valley, call a roofer ASAP. They'll usually start repairs by removing the flashing from the valley. This way, they can look over the shingles and roof deck beneath the flashing to see what condition they're in. If the shingles or deck are damaged, the roofer will remove the damaged sections and replace them. Then, they will likely put new flashing over the repaired sections. This flashing will provide a more sturdy barrier against moisture as time goes on. The roofer may also secure it with some extra cement or rubber caulk, knowing that the valley has been damaged before and needs advanced protection.
Damage often begins in roof valleys, but luckily, this sort of damage is easy to spot. If you do notice any damage, contact your roofer ASAP. They can come to repair the roof valley in a way that will keep rot and other problems from spreading. These repairs are usually quite affordable and easy to have made.
Reach out to roofing services to find out more.