Charlottetown, Canada, often faces big storms. You will see some strange things in the area after the storm. Two houses of the same age and size, facing the same storm, yield different results. While one house is fine, the other has shingles in the backyard. It is not just bad luck. There are other factors responsible as well.
How the owners maintain and repair their houses plays a key role here. Of course, proper installation and maintenance tips from veteran contractors help homeowners cope with severe storms.
What is under the roof is important
Most homeowners focus on the visible shingles. However, the underlying layer is more important. This includes the underlayment, the decking, flashing, and the ventilation. All these elements play an important role during strong winds and storms.
The most common reasons
Here are some of the major factors that cause maximum roof damage:
- Poor installation quality can be a big problem for roofs. Installing a roof quickly and with shortcuts leaves consequences. Some reasons roofs lose material in strong winds include poorly nailed shingles, incorrect placement and angle, and too few fasteners. Without proper fastening, shingles give way in strong gusts. In Charlottetown, you can’t escape severe storms, and so preparing the house is a must.
- Professionals performing storm damage roof repair Charlottetown PEI, say the deck age beneath the roofing is an important factor to consider. Wooden deck under the shingles softens in spots due to slow moisture absorption. Humidity changes and ice dams in winter are the main factors here. Winds easily get under the shingles and pull them against the weak wood.
- Improper flashing sealing is also a major problem in Charlottetown. Flashing sits at the joints around vents, chimneys, and skylights. Flashing is an easy point to rush, and water finds its first entry point during a storm. Cracked or improperly applied caulking can lead to water staining on your ceiling.
- Poor attic ventilation can significantly shorten the lifespan of the roof. It traps heat and moisture in the attic space. The heat build-up warps the decking and degrades the inner layer.
What hurricanes teach PEI homeowners?
It is during hurricanes and strong storms in Charlottetown that you can understand the difference between a general roof and a well-built one. The oldest homes sustain the most damage. Professional roof repair companies such as Artisanroofing.ca always recommend maintaining the roofs at regular intervals. If necessary, replace the old shingles and ensure that the ventilation and flashing are in proper condition. This will ensure that the roof remains safe in strong winds.
Summing it up
From the outside, the shingles on your roof might look perfect. But you must get a proper inspection to assess the flashing, underlayment condition, ventilation, and the condition of the fasteners. Ignoring small signs can cost you dearly in the long run and become an expensive investment later. Always hire professional, licensed roofing contractors for any roofing repairs or maintenance. If you compromise in this respect, you will repent later.