Most roofing systems are engineered to last for decades. However, they may not last that long if you don't take care of them properly. Unfortunately, even with the proper maintenance, there are factors like storms and fires that can reduce your roof's lifespan. In case your roofing system sustains extreme damage, you should ensure to replace it in good time to avoid more serious problems like injuries, leaks, or property damage. It's important to contact a professional roofer to inspect your roofing system if you suspect it's damaged. Here are factors that can reduce your roofing system lifespan.

Poor Maintenance

Although the roofing system is one of the most important systems in your home, it's common for it to get neglected due to busy schedules, ignorance, or lack of resources. Poor maintenance practices like letting algae, moss, or debris build up on the surface can damage the roofing materials leading to premature roof replacement. Also, if you let the gutters get clogged, it can force water to pool on the rooftop instead of being diverted away from the house. This can cause the wood decking under the shingles to rot. To prevent this from happening, have a contractor inspect your roof regularly for any damage or signs of wear and tear. Depending on the condition of the roofing system, schedule repairs, or replacements of worn-out parts when need be.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Bad weather conditions can be extremely harsh on your roof, especially if it is old or in poor condition. Hailstorms can cause dents and cracks in your shingles while powerful winds can blow shingles off completely. Also, during storms, branches could fall onto roofs causing damage to the shingles, or they could dislodge flashing allowing moisture into the structure. Extreme weather conditions like flooding can also damage your roof by saturating the wood underneath. If you live in an area that experiences extreme weather, such as tornadoes, hurricanes, or blizzards, it's important to regularly schedule maintenance services to ensure your roof is strong enough to withstand harsh seasons.

Fires

Homeowners who live in wildfire-prone areas are at increased risk of fire damage that can leave their roofs in need of repair or replacement. Extreme fires can destroy all parts of your roof and render it unusable. In other circumstances, it can affect the structure of your home's attic or rafters underneath the sheathing that holds the shingles in place. You should ensure your roofing is inspected by a professional roofer after any fire incident whether the fire was in your home or a neighboring home. This is to ensure that your roofing wasn't damaged by falling embers or hot ash from nearby fires.

Every home needs a functional roofing system to keep the home and family safe. If your home was recently exposed to heavy storms, fires, or has not had a roofing maintenance appointment recently, contact a roofing company, such as Volpe Roofing, to inspect the roofing system.