Way Up on the Roof

Just one missing roof tile isn't much of a problem, is it? Actually, a single missing tile can lead to multiple issues. Since roof tiles are the armor that protects your roof and home from the elements, if compromised, expensive repairs may not be far away.

If you have noticed that your roof is missing a tile or two, call a roof repair service, then inspect your attic for water damage. If you can have a professional replace your tiles quickly, then you can avoid the following costly issues.

1. Exposed underlayment soon deteriorates and leads to leaks

All roofs have a layer of underlayment that acts as a barrier to keep water out of your home. Underlayment is waterproof, but it is not designed to be the first layer of protection—tiles are. One missing tile leaves your underlayment exposed to the elements.

Sunlight alone can weaken underlayment drastically, drying it out and causing it to lose its waterproof properties. And if you add rain to the equation, the exposed underlayment could begin to rot. Once the underlayment fails, it will cease to prevent leaks, which could be very costly for you.

2. Pests can rip apart your underlayment to get into your attic

If a roof rat or bat decides that your roof is a good place to build a nest, your underlayment won't keep them out. They will simply rip through the material and set up a home in your roof. Not only will you then have pests living in your attic, but you'll also have a leak to contend with every time it rains.

3. Dry rot can leave your roof's structural beams weakened

If your underlayment fails and then exposes your roof's wooden support beams to the sun, dry rot could then set in. In hot and dry conditions, a fungal condition called dry rot can set in and begin to destroy the exposed wooden areas of your roof. If you deal with the problem quickly, the repairs will be minor. If you wait too long, you might even need to replace your entire roof.  

4. Wind can rip away even more tiles

One missing roof tile allows wind to blow under the adjacent roof tiles. This will cause those roof tiles to loosen and break free of your roof. This will leave more of your roof exposed to the elements. And another concern is wind-driven rain, which could leave your roof soaked through and lead to a major roof leak.

Don't take a missing roof tile lightly. Contact companies like Premier Roofing Co for more assistance.