Florida is notorious for its severe weather. Gainesville residents experience unique weather issues when it comes to roof damage compared to other parts of the country. Our proximity to the ocean, our abundance of trees, and our punishingly strong sunlight take a toll on any roof–especially asphalt shingle roofs. We’re highlighting the most common types of roof damage we see with our clients in Gainesville. We also show detailed roof damage pictures and explain the anatomy of the damage. Read on to learn more!
Types of Roof Damage
There are numerous types of roof damage. However, these are the most common ones we see with our customers:
- Tree punctures
- Roof staining
- Peeling or cracked shingles
- Rusted exposed fasteners
If you experience any of these types of damage or other roof emergencies, it’s crucial that you call a roofing professional right away.
1. Tree Punctures
Gainesville is known as a tree city because of its dense tree canopy. These trees are beautiful but they also wreak havoc on roofs. Anytime we get severe thunderstorms or hurricanes, limbs, and trees fall on homes. Sometimes these trees will come down through a roof system–cracking trusses. Less severe cases happen when a single limb breaks off of a tree and falls at an angle so that it pierces through the roof decking.
In the roof damage pictures above, you can see multiple examples of tree punctures and the resulting damage. If punctures are severe, they can lead to collapsed ceilings and rainwater intrusion into the livable portion of the home. Cracked trusses require structural engineer inspections and replacement.
2. Roof Staining
If you were to drive around Gainesville looking at houses, you would see a prevalence of roof staining. Roof staining is caused by sun and algal growth. Staining on asphalt shingles usually appears as “streaks” and metal roofs can take on a brown/green color that forms in patches.
These stains are not only an eye sore but they also intensify the roof damage. The algae cause the shingles to heat up more due to greater sunlight absorption. This may cause the singles to separate from the decking and lead to leaks, decreased home energy efficiency, and more. Newer shingles contain anti-microbial properties to prevent algae growth but most older roofs do not.
What NOT to Do if You Have Roof Staining
If you have an asphalt shingle roof, it’s important that you don’t try to get rid of the algae stains by using a high-powered pressure washer. Your roof has shingle granules that provide waterproofing. Using a pressure washer will remove these granules–undermining the integrity and durability of your roof. You should get a roof inspection from a professional or if you decide to handle it yourself, use a low-pressure garden hose and a gentle cleaning solution to remove the algae.
3. Peeling or Cracked Shingles
Another common type of roof damage we see is peeling or cracked shingles. These are often caused by sun damage, hail damage, strong winds, overhanging tree limbs, and improper attic ventilation leading to higher roof surface temperatures.
Once shingles begin cracking or peeling, it’s a sign that it’s time for a roof repair or replacement. One way to mitigate peeling or cracking is to keep overhanging limbs trimmed and away from the roof. This is a practice you can do during early spring and fall.
4. Rusted Exposed Fasteners
There are generally 2 types of metal roofing:
- Standing Seam Metal
- Exposed Fastener
Exposed Fastener metal roofs are more affordable than Standing Seam Metal but their fasteners (exposed screws) are prone to rusting about every 10 years. We see this frequently in Gainesville and often recommend that you replace these fasteners about once a decade. There isn’t much property owners can do to prevent rusting. We live in a wet climate here in North Florida. The rain takes a toll on these roofs.
Lastly, metal roofs aren’t always the best option for everyone. Depending on your property’s location and exposure, an asphalt shingle roof might be a better option. A professional roofing company will be able to advise you on the best choice for your home or business.
Roof Damage Repair in Gainesville, FL
At McFall Residential Roofing, we specialize in roof damage repair here in Gainesville, FL, and the surrounding area. The benefit of working with a local roofing contractor like McFall is that you get the knowledge and expertise you need to make the best decisions for your home. We follow industry best practices and use high-quality roofing materials to give our customers beautiful roofs that last.
Protect your home today. When it comes to roof damage repair, McFall is your local industry expert!
