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Although hidden away, roof supports do some of the hardest and most important work for your roof, keeping the structure from collapsing or warping over time. Roofing problems that affect supports are particularly dangerous, because they can endanger the entire roof. Here are some of the most frequent roofing problems that plague supports.
Weak Materials Chosen for the Wrong Jobs
Roof support systems are typically created with wood and sometimes steel beams. But that doesn’t mean that every beam is the same. Both positioning and materials are important: A heavier or longer roof may need to be supported with more durable beams.
Solid sawn beams may be used for small roofs, but ordinary timber often isn’t always up to the task. For larger rooftops, glue-laminated or laminated veneer beams should be used, because they are built to withstand the pressures of supporting larger roofs. Heavier or wider rooftops may need steel beams instead. Without the right materials, these supports won’t be effective at doing their job.
This problem works the other way, too: Changing how much the roof weighs, such as switching from shingles to cement tiles, puts more weight on the beams. Beams and similar supports should always be considered when making a major roof change.
Poor Bracing Decisions
For rafter-style rooftops, rafters typically require braces to help support the weight of the roof, especially for wider rooftops. Building braces are a vital part of rafter construction, and making poor choices can lead to serious roof problems down the road. Braces should always be built against interior walls that, in turn, act like solid supports of their own. However, rafters are not always braced correctly, which puts far too much weight on the brace itself and leads to collapse. Poorly braced rafters can also cause a sagging roof, crooked rooftops and other serious problems. Structural issues like these are difficult to solve without significant renovation. So if you notice these serious roof problems, be sure to let Findlay Roofing know.
Long-Term Leaks Causing Rot and Mold Growth
Bad leaks, such as those caused by animals looking for a new nest, long-term shingle damage or condensation from poorly ventilated attics, will soak roof supports repeatedly. Eventually, even the toughest supports will show signs of damage and rot. This will attract more pests while giving mold a place to grow. When this damage occurs, the supports definitely need to be replaced. Do you need solutions for your roofing problems? Contact a professional at Findlay Roofing today.
