The roof is a very important part of a structure. It serves to protect the interior and structural integrity of the house from harsh elements in Tampa, including rain, heat, snow and strong wind.

Water leaks coming from above the house is a sign that something is wrong with the roof. If the roof has only been recently installed, the problem could be traced to poor installation. However if the roof is old, it might already need repair or even replacement.

New Roof

The following situations justify installing new roofs:

1. When your roof is at or near the end of its service life. Roofs are expected to last around 20 to 30 years. If you experience leaks and other roof problems and your roof has used up its expected service life, a new roof might be necessary.
2. To improve your home’s appeal and value. An old and outdated roof detracts from the aesthetic appeal and intrinsic worth of a house. If yours has been around for years, it is advisable to install a new roof when you want to improve its physical appearance and real property value.
3. When you experience extensive leaks. A roof repair or patch-up work might not solve the problem for you. Your roof could have sustained extensive damage that necessitates the installation of a new roof.

Roof Repair Tampa

The following instances do not justify the installation of a new and costly roof. Repairs could be just fine:

1. Leaking ceiling. If the timbers are still in good condition without any molds, break or warp, a dripping ceiling can be repaired without incurring huge expenses for a new roof.
2. Damaged soffits. Ice dams, defective flashing and damaged shingles are common causes of damage to eaves, gables and soffits. Properly maintain the flashing, utilize ice dam prevention methods and replace damaged shingles to keep the soffits and eaves in pristine condition.
3. Missing shingles. Replace missing or loosed shingles with spare shingles, which you should always store for such situation. Removing and replacing shingles are not difficult.
4. Failed Flashing. Flashings could fail for different reasons such as variations in temperature and wind storm. The expansion and contraction of metal caused by heat and cold could loosen flashings, especially those installed around chimneys, skylights and vents.
5. Sagging gutters. Debris and other dirt accumulate in the gutter through time. Some people install gutter covers to prevent it from being clogged. The debris adds weight to the gutter, which may eventually sag because of the weight. Its mounting support could also fail. Just keep the gutter clean, remove any debris and remount the support.

Selecting a Tampa roofing style for your house or building is not an easy task. Homeowners take into account several factors before deciding which type of roof to install. Some of these include the effectiveness of the roof type to keep the elements away from the interiors, the need for additional space inside the house, energy-efficiency of the structure and the overall look of the house.

We listed some of the most common roof styles today and the reasons why homeowners would want to install them.

1. Gable Roof

This popular roof type is characterized by the triangular shape of the roof. It has two sides that slope down from a central apex or ridge. This roof style is suited for homeowners who are concerned about water ponding and need additional space for their attic.

2. Mansard Roof

A distinguishing feature of a mansard roof is the two slopes design on its sides, with the lower slope forming a much steeper angle than the upper slope. For those who prioritize extra and spacious living spaces to serve as additional rooms, this roof style creates additional living quarters under the roof.

3. Bonnet Roof

Bonnet roof is the reverse of a mansard roof. It has two slopes on each side, but the lower slope is less steeped than the upper slope, the exact opposite of a mansard roof. For people who want more shade and protection to their outdoor area such as porches, this is the right roof style for them. The design also creates extra space on the upper slope for a functional attic.

4. Flat Roof

As the name implies, the roof is either flat or has very little pitch to drain water. Easily the simplest type of roof to be built, flat roof requires fewer materials and costs less than other roofs. If you want to save money on your roof, then flat roof is for you.

5. Shed Roof

Similar to the flat roof, this roof style has a single pane that slopes from one side. Because of its relatively-steeper pitch compared to a flat roof, shed roof provides better drainage of rainwater. It also offers the same advantages as a flat roof. However, the single sloping pattern of the roof will leave you with uneven room shapes below. This is best for those who want a unique architectural style on their homes.

6. Hipped Roof

Hipped roof has slopes on all four sides, which are of equal length. Similar to a gable roof, the roofs form a ridge at the top. Those living in storm-prone places prefer hipped roof because it provides better wind-resistance and protection from rain.

Critters living in the ceiling of your Tampa roofing will likely cause damage to your house. A more serious risk is the threat that they pose to the health of your family. There are several ways to keep your roof and ceiling free from rodents and other unwanted critters. We listed the most effective and mentioned those that are not proven to work.

Habitat Modification

Rats are found to be sensitive to changes in their environment. They could move elsewhere and do their activities in other areas by introducing modifications or changes in their habitat. One of the best ways to affect habitat modification is through general sanitation.

• Do not leave food in the open.
• Store garbage in rodent-proof plastic containers.
• Place materials properly.
• Remove food and water sources, including birdfeeders, pet foods and water. Rats require water source, especially during hot weather.

Roof rats travel from one house to another using branches, vines, fences and wires. Drastically reduce their mobility by eliminating these aerial pathways.

• Trim shrubs and bushes that they can use to hide.
• Remove ground plants that reach at least one foot high.
• Prune crowns of palm trees and remove dead leaves.
• Trim the branches so that they do not reach down to the ground.

Exclusion

One of the most effective methods to prevent rats from entering your house and residing in your ceiling is by blocking their points of entry to your home. This is called the exclusion method.

Rodents enter houses through every possible entrance such as an ill-fitting garage doors, utility wires that go through the building or through pipes. They can go through even small openings and easily climb through windows. You must seal all possible entry points to your house.

Seal any openings that might act as entry points for rats. Use copper or steel wool, concrete mortar and wire mesh to seal the opening. A metal flashing for wider openings may also be used. Closely examine your roof to look for possible holes.

Rat guards are effective in foiling rodents from climbing up trees and walls. They are made from metal sheets that are at least 18 to 24 inches wide. They prevent rats from climbing up because of their smooth metallic surface.

Ineffective Methods

Chemical repellants and electronic devices that employ lights, and sounds are not recommended methods to keep away critters from your roof. There is simply no evidence showing that these products, sold as animal repellants, are effective in keeping away critters from your ceiling.