The roofing industry has changed quite a lot over the years. These days, homeowners are rarely opting for the standard, 3-tab shingles that were so popular a few decades ago. Instead, they are going with architectural shingles, and in some cases, with even more eco-friendly options like green roofing or slate. Whether you're shopping around for a new roof or are thinking of having repairs made to your current roof, it pays to be educated. Learn the basics on this blog, where we discuss roofing in the modern world. We explore various roofing materials, roofing techniques, and how to find the right roofer.
Rain gutters are an integral part of carrying away rain and water from your roof and foundation and keeping your home safe. But what happens if your rain gutters stay intact but you lose the drain? Unfortunately, this could be causing problems for your roof. Here's what you need to know about it.
The Problem With Gutters
Rain gutters do a very good job when they work properly, but when they don't, they can potentially cause more harm than good. This is because without the drain attached, after a rain, they can essentially hold water up to your roof and cause water damage to it. It's also worth noting that even if your rain gutters overflow and some of the water manages to hit the ground, then all it's doing is potentially damaging the foundation of your home, so it's something that requires your attention.
Checking Your Roof
If you know that your rain gutter's drain has been missing for a while, it's a good idea to take a look at your roof if you're able. Look for signs of damage like mold, mildew, or missing roof shingles. If shingles are missing, pay special attention to see if there's any sign of rippling on your roof. If there is, it likely means that significant water damage has already been done. All of this damage is possible with prolonged exposure to moisture and water.
The good news is that if you take action quickly, you can keep the damage to a minimum or even eliminate the risk of it entirely.
What to Do
If you think you have a problem with your roof or you're just worried about it, it's best to call in a professional for help. Professional roofers can quickly and effectively inspect your roof to determine if there's damage that's been done. If any damage has been done, they can repair it and replace any missing shingles or, if necessary, replace the entire roof. In addition, they can also repair or replace your rain gutter for you.
Rain gutters are an essential part of keeping both your roof and your foundation safe, so you shouldn't go without them. If the drain from your rain gutter is missing, you need to have it replaced ASAP, even if your roof isn't damaged yet. Contact a roofer for help with this and prevent further damage to your home that could require a big repair bill.
To learn more, contact a residential roofer.