4 Common Roof Problems (And When to Call a Pro)

Your roof protects your entire home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for potential problems. Here are four common issues homeowners might face and how a roofing repair service can help:

1. Clogged Gutters, Downspouts, Valleys and Channels
   • The Problem: Leaves, twigs, and other stuff can build up in your gutters/valleys/channels. This gunk turns into a nasty sludge that shortens your gutter’s lifespan, makes them sag, and might even be a fire risk! Plus, if the water can’t flow, it’ll spill over the sides and potentially damage your home’s siding or even the foundation.
   • The Solution: Cleaning your gutters regularly is a good DIY project, but if you’re not comfortable on ladders or dealing with the mess, a roofer can clean them and check for any lurking damage.
2. Rotting Fascia
   • The Problem: The fascia is the board that runs along the bottom of your roof where your gutters attach. When gutters clog, water builds up and starts rotting the wood. Rot is nasty – it spreads, it weakens the wood, and can invite mold and pests.
   • Solution: Catching rotting fascia early is key. A roofer can replace damaged fascia boards and fix the underlying cause (likely those clogged gutters!), halting the problem before it gets worse. Keep your fascia properly painted is a good way to keep it from deteriorating.
3. Worn-Out Shingles or Tile 
   • The Problem: Even the best shingles don’t last forever. Harsh sun, storms, and just plain age cause them to wear out. Don’t wait until you see leaks inside to take notice, though! Check your gutters for shingle granules—those little bits look like coarse black sand. A lot of granules mean your shingles are breaking down faster than normal.
   • Solution: A roofer can inspect the shingles, pinpoint problem areas, and recommend the best action – it might be patching a few spots or getting ahead of problems with a whole new roof.
4. Damaged Pipe Boots
   • The Problem: You’ve got pipes sticking out of your roof (plumbing vents, etc.). Pipe boots are the rubbery-looking seals around them. Over time, the sun can bake them until they crack and leak.
   • Solution: Replacing a pipe boot is a quick fix for a roofer, and way cheaper than fixing extensive water damage inside! A roof inspection can spot damaged boots before they cause headaches.

Roof problems are best fixed early! If you see any of these issues, or just want peace of mind, having a roofing professional give your roof a checkup might save you money and stress in the long run.

If you are looking for a reliable roofing repair service in Arizona, you can trust German Roofing! We are a full-time roofing contractor who knows a lot about roofs and are ready to share our knowledge with you without charging you astronomical service fees. Call us now at (480) 370-0300, and we will make sure your roofing care needs are taken care of.