Depending on the type of material your home's roof is made of, that roof may be able to last 25 to 50 years, or sometimes even more. But being aware of what things can cause damage and how to handle it can go a long way toward making sure that roof lasts at least as long as it is intended to.  And here in Minnesota, we've got a number of elements that threaten the health and longevity of a roof.  Being aware of these things can help you spot potential problems so you can get them fixed quickly before more trouble happens.

Sources of Roof Damage

Tree Limbs and Branches:  We're fortunate here in the Twin Cities to have an abundance of trees. But those trees, while creating shade and beauty, have the potential for damaging roofs. We get high winds from time to time, and sometimes those winds send tree branches and limbs flying.

Hey, anything can happen. And it might not even be from trees in your yard. But you can reduce the likelihood of damage. If you have trees in your yard, make sure back any branches that hang over your roof. And if you're planting trees, set them back away from the house.

Hail: This has been the summer of hail, with recent storms producing record size nuggets.  Hail is common in colder climates, like Minnesota, so it is important that you keep an eye on your roof. Whenever there has been a hail storm in your area, give your roof a check. Even small hail stones can cause damage, especially if you have asphalt shingle roofing. Heavy Snow: Again, this is a common thing we deal with during the winter. Snow can cause ice dams, but so can allowing it to build up on your roof.  Heavy, wet snow can cause problems when the weight stresses the structure underneath. Don’t let this happen to you - rooftop snow removal is important. Animal Infestations:  There's a reason that 'squirrels in the attic' is such a common metaphor. Homeowners deal with squirrels as well as other wildlife like bats and other small animals making their way indoors through small openings in the roof or surrounding spots like the eaves.   Their gnawing to make a way in causes damage to the roof, and once they are indoors it gets worse.  You'll need an exterminator to get rid of them, and then roof repairs will be needed to seal up the access points. There are other things that cause damage to roofs, such as lightning strikes and fires, but these are the most common issues. Our Minnesota roofing repair and replacement professionals can provide the help needed to keep your roof in the best shape possible. When damage happens, get it fixed quickly. And if your roof is older and shows signs it's nearing the end of its life, consider a metal roof for more protection against these things that can threaten your home.