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Tackling the Top Causes of Roof Damage

Nobody likes to have unexpected repairs to deal with, especially when it comes to the roof over their head. Keeping your roof up to snuff can be hard when you don’t know what’s causing the damage. That's why we’re here to tell you the top causes of roof damage. Knowing the common issues can help you make the most cost-effective decisions for your roof health and give you peace of mind knowing your roof is on the right track.


Roofs are one of the essential elements of any home. They protect the structure, its occupants, and the belongings inside from all kinds of weather-related pressures and forces. However, if not regularly maintained and inspected, even the best roof can eventually succumb to the elements and wear out. It’s important to know what could cause a roof to deteriorate in order to prevent costly repairs and extensive damage. In this blog, we’ll be discussing the top most common causes of roof damage.

1. Age-Related Wear and Tear

The first major cause of roof damage is age-related wear and tear. Over the years, your roof will inevitably get a bit worn down. From material discoloration to shingle deterioration, age can take its toll on any roof type. To avoid having to replace your entire roof prematurely, proper maintenance and regular inspections are important. It’s recommended that you have a professional inspect your roof every three to five years and repair any potential damage before it gets worse.

2. Bad Weather

In addition to age-related wear, bad weather can be another major contributor to roof damage. Severe wind, snow, and hail can have a major impact on any roof, and even minor hail damage can become a major issue over time. To prevent hail damage, you can install hail-resistant shingles, which are designed to withstand hail up to two inches in diameter. For snow, installing snow guards around the edge of your roof can reduce your chances of experiencing a collapse due to heavy snow accumulation.

3. Poor Installation

The third cause of roof damage is poor installation. Even high-quality roofs can suffer if they aren’t installed correctly. It’s important to make sure you hire an experienced roofing specialist and that they use high-quality materials. Improper sealing and flashing can lead to more serious roof damage down the line, so make sure your roofer takes all the steps necessary to ensure that your roof is installed properly and securely.

4. Improper Ventilation

Improper ventilation and insulation are also contributing factors to roof damage. Without proper airflow, heat and moisture can build up inside the attic, creating an ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow. This, in turn, can weaken the surrounding material and cause the roof to deteriorate. The same goes for insulation; if there’s not enough, it can cause the material to sweat, creating an ideal environment for ice dams and leaks. To improve attic ventilation and insulation, contact a reliable roofer to inspect your attic and make sure all the necessary materials are installed properly.

5. Debris Buildup

The fifth cause of roof damage is debris buildup. Over the years, all kinds of debris can embed itself in your roofs, such as leaves, twigs, and dirt. Not only can this make your roof appear dirty, but it can also contribute to mold, mildew, and other forms of roof damage. To avoid roof damage caused by debris, you can regularly inspect your roof and clean away any debris, or hire a professional roofer to do it for you.

6. UV Damage

Another common cause of roof damage is UV radiation exposure. UV radiation exposure can damage shingles, leading to dryness, cracking, and other issues. To limit UV radiation exposure, try to shade your roof as much as possible and make sure to clean the roof regularly. Additionally, consider installing a protective coating to help shield the roof from UV damage.

Avoid Roof Damage - Hire a Skilled and Professional Roofer to Keep Your Home Safe

Humans can also be a big part of the problem when it comes to roof damage. To ensure your roof is properly installed and maintained up to code, it's best to hire a skilled and professional roofer to take care of the job. These roofers are equipped with the necessary tools and experience to identify common roofing issues and know how to fix them right away. This can help homeowners avoid any damage that can occur from amateur efforts in the long run. Fixing small issues as soon as they are noticed can help reduce the extent of the damage and help prevent the need for costly repairs later on.


However, there are some circumstances when damage to the roof cannot be avoided, such as when it reaches its natural life expectancy or when it is damaged beyond repair due to weather or other factors. In these cases, it's best to consult a roofer for ideas on how to repair or replace the roof in order to affordably and effectively protect your home from the elements.


In conclusion, roof damage can be caused by a variety of factors, many of which can be avoided with regular maintenance and upkeep. It's important for all homeowners to get in the habit of inspecting their roofs regularly and looking for any signs of damage, so they can fix them before they cause any further damage and incur unnecessary repair costs.

Expert Roofing Solutions in Starksboro, Bristol, and Vergennes – G.Helms Construction, LLC

G.Helms Construction, LLC provides top-notch roofing services in Starksboro, Bristol, and Vergennes, Vermont. Our team of experienced and trained professionals offers an array of installation and repair services to suit all types of home, commercial, and industrial roofing requirements.


We understand that your roof is an essential part of your home and its safety and security are paramount. Our experts have the tools, skills, and knowledge to provide you with the best roofing installation and repair services. We are renowned in the local area for our quality of materials and craftsmanship, as well as our commitment to providing our customers with outstanding customer service.


G.Helms Construction, LLC is an established roofing service in the area and our team of professionals provides top-notch services for any roofing installation or repair requirements in Starksboro, Bristol, and Vergennes, Vermont. We provide you with the best roofing solutions at competitive prices and guarantee our services.
Contact us today to get more information on our roofing services.

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