Two of the most dangerous signs of something going wrong on your roof are sagging and soft spots. Your roof should be sturdy and always hold its shape, nothing less. If you notice a sagging or soft spot on your roof, call a professional roofing contractor immediately to assess the damage. While a sagging roof doesn’t always mean collapse is imminent, it does mean some serious roofing issues need to be addressed as soon as possible.
The Causes of Roof Sagging and Soft Spots
Sagging and soft spots on a roof are generally caused by one or more of a few underlying issues:
- Water damage: if an excessive amount of water or moisture penetrates your roof, it can rot the wood underneath it and cause the roof to buckle. Water penetration is usually caused by loose or missing shingles, gaps in flashing, etc.
- Excessive weight on the roof: this is generally the cause of an old or improperly constructed roof, combined with excessive amounts of snow or ice accumulation on the roof.
- Aging: nothing lasts forever, and an aging roof can begin to weaken and rot over time.
- Foundation issues: significant cracks in your foundation can cause the entire structure to shift, which can impact your roof. If this is the case, it’s highly advisable to bring in a structural engineer to assess the entire home, not just the roof.
Can Roof Sagging and Soft Spots Be Repaired?
Sagging roofs and soft spots can generally be repaired. It’s a matter of replacing the impacted materials (decking, rafters, etc.). It’s then necessary to address the underlying issues that caused the roof to sag in the first place. This all depends on the extent of the damage, which will determine how much work will need to be done to get the roof back to normal.
Will Insurance Cover the Cost of the Repairs?
This depends on the cause of the repairs and the insurance plan you have on your home. Generally, aging roofing is not covered by homeowners’ insurance plans, but the costs for repairs may be covered if the damage is caused by a storm that recently hit your area. You will need to check in with your insurance provider to see what is covered. When assessing damage, your roofing contractor can also provide some guidance in this area and will be able to work with your insurance company if it is decided that they will cover some or all the repair costs.
What Not to Do
If you discover soft or sagging spots on your roof, it’s best to avoid walking or going up on your roof. Contact a professional and have them assess the damage before doing anything else. Walking on an already damaged roof is extremely dangerous and can also cause further damage.
