When it comes to protecting your home from weather and pest damage, regular inspections are an important part of keeping your home safe and sound. Whether it's a small leak from a storm or a large infestation from pests, inspecting for signs of damage can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. In this article, we'll discuss how to inspect for signs of weather and pest damage, what to look for, and how to go about addressing any issues you may find.
Different Types of Pest Damage
When inspecting for signs of pest damage, it is important to understand the different types of damage that can occur. Common types of pest damage include small holes, large sections of missing shingles, and other forms of structural damage.Small holes are generally caused by birds or insects and can lead to water infiltration if left unchecked. Larger sections of missing shingles are usually caused by larger animals such as raccoons or squirrels. These creatures will often remove a large portion of the shingle in order to create a nesting area. Other forms of structural damage can include wood rot, which is caused by moisture infiltration from heavy rains or snow.
This type of damage can also be caused by carpenter ants or termites which can cause significant structural damage to the roof. When inspecting for signs of pest damage, it is important to look for any signs of holes, missing shingles, or other forms of structural damage. If any of these signs are present, it is important to take action to repair the damage before it becomes worse.
Different Types of Weather Damage
Weather damage can come in many forms, ranging from minor cosmetic damage to major structural damage that can lead to costly repairs.Some of the most common types of weather damage include extreme temperatures, high winds, hail, snow, and rain. Each type of weather condition can cause its own type of damage.
Extreme Temperatures
Extreme temperatures can cause a variety of issues for a roof. High temperatures can cause shingles to become brittle and crack, while low temperatures can cause them to become stiff and brittle.In addition, extremely high temperatures can cause the tar sealant between shingles to become weakened, leading to leaks.
High Winds
High winds can cause shingles to become loose and even blow off the roof entirely. In addition, high winds can also cause objects such as tree branches and debris to strike the roof, causing dents or punctures.Hail
Hail can cause significant damage to a roof.Depending on the size of the hail, it can cause dents in shingles, punctures, and even break through them entirely. If left unchecked, hail damage can lead to leaks and even more serious structural problems.
Snow
Snow is another form of weather damage that can affect a roof. Heavy snowfall can lead to ice dams forming at the edge of the roof, which can cause water to back up under the shingles and lead to leaks.Snow can also cause shingles to become brittle and crack, leading to further damage.
