If you’re out on the lawn right now asking yourself “Why are there bumps on my roof,” you’re not alone. Many homeowners often notice bumps or bulges on their rooftops. While these may seem random and not appear to have any pattern, they generally are the result of something going wrong on your roof. Bumps and bulges are sometimes the result of storm damage, but they can also be caused by other underlying issues.
What causes bumps and bulges on a roof? These are the most common reasons that they form.
Nail Pops
If you have asphalt shingles, the answer may be as simple as nail pops. This occurs when the nails holding the shingles begin to slip out, either because of old age, heavy winds, or improper installation. If your roof is not old, or there have been no severe storms in your area, the shingles likely just need to be nailed down. Otherwise, it may be time for a roofing replacement.
Insufficient Insulation
Insufficient insulation in your attic can cause condensation and moisture to damage the roof membrane and decking. When moisture becomes trapped between the roof and the attic, it can cause seam separation and other problems. This can also cause dips and sagging in your roof. If this is the case, you will need insulation replacement in your attic.
Leaks in Your Roof
Minor cracks on your roof can be a significant problem since these small leaks can build up and cause more severe damage if they are not repaired. In many cases, these minor leaks may be signs of a more significant problem that requires repair. Any cracks that need repair should be repaired as soon as possible, so you do not have minor leaks to deal with later on.
This also leads to an increase in moisture, which can become trapped between the roof and ceiling, causing severe damage to your roof. The additional pressure from these leaks can eventually cause structural damage and other issues.
Faulty or improperly installed flashing can also cause water to condense and pool underneath your shingles. This is an often-overlooked issue on many rooftops.
Roofing Membrane Problems
A damaged or improperly installed roof membrane can cause your attic to become excessively humid. In turn, water may run through the damaged area and down the sides of your roof. A professional contractor can help identify if a minor repair of your roof membrane is all that is required to solve these problems.
Excessive Humidity
Changes in weather patterns and climate can cause several problems that can affect your attic. For example, if you live in an area with greater humidity than the rest of the state, or your home was built in areas with high levels of moisture, then your attic may be more susceptible to damage. You should check with your contractor immediately if you notice any issues.
Heavy Snow Accumulation
Snow accumulation on a roof can cause the roofing material to become heavy. If the roof is old, this can lead to sagging or buckling. When roofs buckle, they push down on certain areas, which causes other areas to rise. These are the bumps you will notice on your roof.
If the snow accumulates on your roof, contact a professional contractor as soon as possible so they can clear your roof before any further damage occurs. If you wait, and your roof becomes loaded with excessive weight, it can damage it in many ways.
In a home that has experienced more than one of these problems, it is essential to identify the cause. Contact the professionals for roofing replacement and roofing repair if you are still determining what caused the damage you noticed in your attic. They will be able to locate the source of damage and determine what type of repair or replacement may be necessary.