BOSTON BO S TON COMMON ROOFING PROBLEMS IN An aerial view of Boston would reveal a bevy of charming rooftops, from modern townhomes to historic colonials. Though Beantown is home to neighborhoods with architectural diversity, it’s also home to some serious weather woes. The average roof lasts for 10-15 years before it develops problems, but seasonal weather and the age of your home strongly impact the health of your roof. It’s best to catch a problem before it causes damage. Here’s what to look for: Need a roof replacement in Boston? Call Long Roofing at 1-866-328-1187 or visit us at longroofing.com WE BUILD TRUST & PEACE OF MIND INTO EVERY LONG ROOF. BLACK ALGAE These look like streaks on your roof, and are becoming more prevalent on New England homes. Algae absorbs heat and makes your roof look dirty and old. ICE DAMAGE Ice dams can be extremely destructive to Boston area homes. They can pull off your gutters and lift your shingles, starting water infiltration where there was none before. Keep your eyes peeled during the winter months. STRUCTURAL DAMAGE This can be caused by fallen tree limbs or other severe weather events. Look for missing shingles and deformed areas on your roof. BLOW-OFF DAMAGE If your home is subjected to severe winds, entire sections of your roof can be blown off. Make sure you inspect your roof after a hard-hitting storm. 2 ROOF LEAKS Leaks can be caused by old pipe collars, worn-out or damaged metal flashing, fallen limbs or water backed up behind an ice dam. Keep an eye out for wet walls inside your home. 6 3 DAMAGED SHINGLES Shingles can cup, curl or turn brittle from old age. As UV rays from the sun break down the adhesives in your shingles, the granules begin to drop off. Once your shingles start to look “bald,” they are not nearly as waterproof. It's also a good idea to keep an eye out for “nail pops.” 5 4 1