Your home’s roofing system is an essential part of your home. It protects you from extreme weather conditions, including harsh hailstorms and strong winds. As a homeowner, you have to ensure your roof is in great condition. If you notice your roof is sagging, however, it may open the door for future issues and costly repairs.
A sagging roof is a sign of trouble that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. A little droop may not necessarily mean your roof is going to collapse. Nevertheless, it does mean that you need to call an expert right away, especially if your roof is fairly old. Otherwise, a sagging roof may compromise the structural integrity of your home.
Today, we discuss the causes of a sagging roof and how to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Read on to learn more about this topic!
What Is a Sagging Roof?
An ordinary roof should look even and level, but a sagging roof typically has a curved or wavy appearance. It’s a common issue in old homes because of wear and tear. Still, your roof can sag regardless of age.
Keep in mind that roofs should be sturdy and strong enough to handle any weight. However, if the load is too much, the roof is likely to sag. As such, it’s best to contact roofing contractors should you notice your roof drooping, even at the slightest. They will inspect your roof and decide on a solution that will fix the issue. A roof that is nearing the end of its lifespan may have to be replaced to ensure your home is well-protected.
What Causes a Sagging Roof?
Finding the exact cause is a crucial step in dealing with a sagging roof. This will help your contractor determine the best remedy for this particular problem. We list a few reasons why your roof may have been sagging:
Water Damage
Rain and snow can wreak havoc on a poorly maintained roof. To allow proper water runoff, your gutter system should be in good condition. If it’s damaged or poorly designed as well, the water can pool on the roof and seep in eventually. Metal flashing should also be installed on the valleys and junctions of your roof to keep water from penetrating through. In the event that your roof’s structure gets damaged, water will get in and weaken the underlying structure.
Poor ventilation in your attic can also contribute to water damage. If there is not enough airflow in the attic, moisture can build up on the underside of the roof. This makes it easier for water to infiltrate the roof’s surface and allows summer heat to build up, damaging your shingles in the long run. For all these reasons, having proper attic ventilation is imperative to preserve and even extend the life span of your roof.
Excessive Weight
All roofing systems are designed to support a specific maximum weight. Anything that goes beyond its load limit can cause the roof to sag, especially for long periods. This is particularly true during winter. Snow can build up on your roof, and if not cleared right away, it may damage the structure of your roof.
If you think snow is causing your roof to sag, be sure to contact a professional to clear your roof for you. Take note that incorrect snow removal can damage your roof even further, worsening the sagging and making your roof vulnerable to moisture damage. For lighter snowfall, you can use a roof rake to get rid of any buildup. To prevent ice dams from forming, keep your attic insulated and ventilated.
Design Flaws
Design flaws may leave your roof unable to hold its own weight, increasing its chances of sagging over time. In a stick frame sloped roof, for example, undersized rafters or insufficient sheathing can cause it to sag in the middle or on one side of the roof. One way to fix this particular design flaw is to install new rafters alongside the weak or damaged ones.
Having multiple layers of shingles and new roof material may also cause even a well-constructed roof to sag. For this reason, it’s best to remove all the shingles and install a new set. This way, your roofing contractors can inspect your flashing and roof underlayment for signs of damage. They may also recommend installing lighter roof materials if your roof started sagging after you switched to heavier ones.
Foundation Issues
While these aren’t as common as the above mentioned ones, issues with your foundation may cause your roof to sag. If your home’s foundation has sunk, your walls and roof will be affected as well. You may also notice tilting and cracks in your foundation. To repair foundation damage, you need a construction professional to inspect your property as soon as possible.
How Can You Prevent Your Roof From Sagging?
- Schedule regular roof inspections. Ceiling joists are one of the most important parts of your roof. They join the walls of your home and support the weight of your roof. However, they can become weakened for a variety of reasons, including age or water damage. If joists begin to rot, they will lose their ability to support your roof, causing it to sag. Make sure to schedule regular roof inspections to ensure your roof’s longevity, durability and weather performance.
- Lighten the load. Whether it’s snow or water buildup, you can lighten the load on your roof by cleaning it regularly. If they are not eliminated, roof debris may contribute to snow or water buildup. If your roof is made up of tiles, you may want to consider replacing them with a lighter alternative.
If your roof has started to sag, turn to our team of experienced roofers at Lask Exterior Solutions, LLC. We are determined to repair or replace your roof as necessary. Leaving a sagging roof unaddressed will only worsen the issue and cause further damage. Call us today at (815) 964-2220, or fill out our online contact form to set an appointment. We proudly serve homeowners in Rockford, IL and the surrounding communities.