The 10 Most Common Roof Problems You’ll Encounter

Eaves Trough

Most homeowners have encountered roofing problems at some point in their lives. From small leaks to major cracking, roofs suffer from a number of common ailments that demand immediate attention. To help you out, we’ve listed a few of the most frequent reasons that will force you to call a commercial roof repair service.

A word of caution: Repairing roofs is not only tricky, but it can also be dangerous. In most cases, it’s best not to fix the problem yourself. Instead, call a professional commercial roof repair company like Pfister Roofing; proudly servicing the entire tri-state area, to get the job done right.

  1. Roof Leaks

It’s probably the single most common roofing problem facing homeowners. From cracked flashing (those thin, weatherproofed pieces of metal that are designed to keep water out) to broken shingles, tiles or slate there are nearly as many causes as there are roofs.

Most commonly, roof leaks have a tendency to occur:

  • Near the chimney
  • Under damaged shingles
  • At flashing points
  • Around gutters
  • At skylights
  • Close to vents and pipes
  • In low spots or valleys

If you see signs of a leak, including discolored ceilings or damp walls, contact Pfister Roofing for an inspection from our commercial roof repair specialists located in Paterson NJ.

  1. Pooled Water

When water begins to pool, or form little ponds on top of the roof, it can cause problems in the long run. A particular worry when it comes to flat roofs, the solution is to form tapered areas over the surface of the roof. Those little slopes will allow the water to run off, keeping your roof free from water damage.

  1. Punctures and Holes

Everything from foot traffic to local wildlife can leave scrapes, puncture marks, or even big holes in a roof. Whether it’s a woodpecker drilling holes in the eaves or a contractor walking over the shingles, the damage can build up over the years, affecting the underlying wood or exposing it to rot-causing moisture.

  1. Shrinkage

When a roof material shrinks, it can lead to a host of other difficulties, such as deterioration, cracking, and the pulling apart of critical components like flashing. Shrinkage particularly affects roofs covered with EPDM (a synthetic rubber membrane) and all other roof coverings

The professionals at Pfister Roofing have decades of experience performing flat roof repairs. If you’re worried about shrinkage or simply need your roof inspected for signs of shrink-related damage, give us a call.

  1. Cracking and Blistering

Over time, roofs can develop cracks, blisters, and ridges. Your chances of seeing such damage depend on the type of roof you have installed. Built-up roofs are roofs made of several layers that cover a relatively flat surface, are particularly susceptible to cracking and blistering.

    1. Snow and Ice Damage

Icy Roof

Don’t let winter wear ruin your roof!

Over the years, snow and ice can wreak havoc on almost any roof. That’s because ice and snow melt into water, which eventually seeps underneath your shingles. If it refreezes, you’re in for a rude surprise. That’s because the ice underneath your roof can push up against the flashing or shingles and even lift them, leaving gaps through which even more ice or water can enter.

The only way to ensure that winter conditions aren’t permanently damaging your roof is to schedule routine spring and fall inspection and maintenance. That way, you won’t be caught off-guard or stuck in a situation that demands emergency roof repair.

EPDM and other single-ply membranes are less susceptible to damage as noted above.

  1. Poor Installation

Choosing inexperienced or poorly qualified roofing specialists can cost you money in the long run. In fact, shoddily installed roofs remain one of the most common reasons for long-term complications and short life expectancy and mold.

Pfister Roofing has been in the business for over 33 years. Our team is highly experienced and extremely knowledgeable. Whether you need residential or commercial roof installation, we do the job right the first time so you don’t face costly repairs down the road.

  1. Tree Damage

It goes without saying: If a tree limb crashes into your roof, you’re in trouble. However, even if the branches rub against your roof on a daily basis, they can scratch the surface and wear down the top layer. At the very least, it’s safer for your roof if trees are trimmed so no limbs are resting on top of your home. At the very most, you might consider removing any trees that pose a serious danger to the integrity of the roof.

  1. Clogged Gutters

Gutter Screen

Clogged gutters can lead to water backups and other damage

If your gutters are clogged, broken, or otherwise defective, water might be backing up into the system. In that case, it might eventually seep into the eaves, where it can lead to rot. Preventing such damage involves routinely checking your gutters for debris, as well as broken parts. Installing screens on the gutter openings also prevents twigs and leaves from getting into your system.

  1. Poor Maintenance

When caught early, the vast majority of roof problems are easy to fix. Bypassing routine maintenance, on the other hand, is the surest way to turn a minor concern into a major plight. Ignoring potential trouble spots is also a surefire way to get yourself in hot water. For best results, stick to a reliable maintenance schedule.

Call Pfister Roofing in Paterson, NJ for Maintenance and Repair

If you need a thorough inspection, routine maintenance, or emergency roof repair anywhere in the New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania tri-state area, contact Pfister commercial roofing. Located in Paterson, NJ; our team of experienced professionals provides immediate emergency repairs to all of our valued customers in the Northern New Jersey region as well as New York. Our Preventive Maintenance Programs also extend the life expectancy of your roof. Unlike many of our competitors, we are properly bonded and insured in NY, NJ, and PA (up to $5 million), and licensed with the NJ Department of Building and Construction #13VH01376600.  Pfister also prides itself to have a historical restoration license. Customers searching for professional roofers in Paterson, Hackensack, Clifton, Passaic, as well as most of Northern New Jersey and the Tri-state area should reach out to us today! Find us on Google Maps!