The structural integrity of your home relies on the strength of your home’s roof. A roof puts up with a lot from the external environment to protect everyone underneath it. Ignoring roof maintenance can lead to unwanted problems, significant repair costs, and even catastrophic damage. Look for the following problems signifying roofing dangers that require your immediate attention.

Leaks

Leaks in your home’s roof are typically symptoms of a bigger problem. If your roof is leaking, you likely have cracked tiles or damaged shingles. There could also be other problems contributing to your leaky roof, like cracked vent booting or improperly sealed valleys. Left unattended, leaks in a roof can cause severe damage to the interior and exterior of your home. Intense mold growth will occur and in some cases an entire roof replacement is required. Check your roof frequently for water stains, then identify the culprit of the leak and what needs fixed to prevent it in the future.

Clogged Gutters 

Throughout the year, there are leaves, dirt, and various debris that make their way into your home’s gutter system. The buildup of debris can cause gutters to get clogged and not drain properly, and clogged gutters can make roof leaks more likely. Still gutters also harbor plenty of opportunities for mold and moss growth which can cause extensive damage. Protect your home by frequently cleaning out your gutters to restore proper drainage and prohibit bacteria from eating at the integrity of your home.

Ice Dams 

During the winter, your roof can form ice dams from the constant melting and freezing of snow. An ice dam on your roof prevents water from draining and causes a backup on your roof which can lead to extensive damage. If left unattended your roof can give way to severe leaks , create mold, and in severe cases collapse under the extra weight. As a homeowner you should clear your roof from snow after each storm and install heat tape to help encourage faster melting and the avoidance of ice dams.

Regardless of how small a maintenance issue may seem, neglecting to resolve it will lead to further damage later down the road. Timely roof maintenance helps you negate the effects of compounding issues, saving you money and stress. Avoid premature roof replacement costs by consistently checking for problems like these!

Read this next: Must-Haves Every New Homeowner Needs to Buy