Even Young Roofs Sometimes Suffer These Problems

Homeowners often assume that if a roof is young, they don't have to worry about potential problems. Often, this is true — roofs typically last 20 or 30 years before they need to be replaced. However, it is not unheard of for young roofs to develop certain problems, and when these problems do occur, you don't want them to go unnoticed. Here are some roofing problems that are not exactly common in newer roofs but are common enough to warrant keeping your eyes out for them.

Algae Growth

Algae does not care whether your roof is 3 years old or 30 years old. If your roof is a moist, shady surface, algae will happily grow there. Algae isn't always green on a roof, either. It often appears as black streaks. While algae will not lead to roof leaks immediately or even within a few years, it can accelerate the breakdown rate of your shingles, so it is a problem you need to address. Roofing companies can come to spray the roof with specialized herbicide solutions that will remove the algae and prevent it from growing back. You'll need an additional, preventative application every few years, going forward. If there's a tree overhanging your roof, you should also trim it back to keep the algae from returning. 

Popped-Up Nails

For various reasons, roofing nails can sometimes pop up and out of the roof surface. This can happen because the roofer accidentally did not drive the nail down far enough, or it can be a consequence of the natural freeze-thaw cycles in regions that get harsh winters. In any event, a popped nail can lead to a leak, and a leak can cause your roof to break down pretty quickly. So if you see any little bumps under your shingles that you think might be rising nail heads, arrange for a roofing company to replace those nails. Don't just pound the nails down again; the hole is too large at this point, and the nail will likely just pop up again.

Lifted Shingle Corners

You see this mostly along the edge of the roof, usually after the gutters have been clogged and water has sat along the roof's edge for too long. The shingles are still in place, but the edges have started to peel or lift. This problem starts small and then spreads as water works its way under the shingles' lifted edges. Have the lifted shingles replaced right away.

Young roofs are less prone to issues than old roofs but they're not impervious to damage. Keep an eye on your young roof and call residential roofing services if you notice any of the issues above.