What does it mean if my roof is sagging?
Roof sagging is one of the most common issues homeowners have reported. And for many, they don’t know why, or what has caused this. Here at 1845RM, we want to help our clients understand the potential causes of a sagging roof, and what you can do about it.
Two or more roofs
This is when one covering has been laid on top of another. Also known as “doubling your roof”. This additional weight causes sagging or waving in the roof.
A new roof made of heavier materials
Let’s say your original roof was a shingle roof, and you have replaced it with tile. Your roof may begin to sag or wave due to the simple fact that your roof was not originally structurally designed to carry that extra weight that comes with the newer material in its place.
Cracked or damaged rafters or trusses
If 1 or more of the rafters or trusses break within a span of space, you will be able to see your roof sag in that area. Sometimes, homeowners can assess this damage by climbing into the attic and searching for evidence of damages. If you have had water leaks or issues with termites, these factors will also weaken your rafters and the sheeting.
Improper engineering
Starting from the blueprint, your sagging roof may be of fault from poor engineering. If your roof isn’t made of the correct materials, it will be unable to handle the load placed on it.
Poor workmanship
In the beginning stages of the development of your home, all the workers are in a hurry to finish. As your walls, and roof are framed, carpenters may not have taken the time to ensure that all boards are straight, everything is level, and that no areas have any imperfections.
Foundation issues
- Settling and heaving
Homes that are built on shifting soil will move and settle to a certain degree. New homes tend to shit within the first year. In locations where clay soil is prominent, there is a high chance that once it gets wet, this will cause the soil to swell and thus causing your home to lightly shift.
- Levelness
Check the levelness of your home by rolling a ball across the floor. If the ball begins to roll when you place it on your flat floor, that is a good indication that your floor tilts, and that your foundation is not level.
- Cracks or damages
Look for cracks or damages in your foundation. Sometimes you can locate damages by looking at the tops of your walls and where your ceiling line meet.
- Tree roots
Homes that have heavy forestry or trees planted near to their home may want to check to see if a tree root is the cause of a foundation issue that may be the result of a sagging roof. Trees search for water, and the greater the soil movement the more likely you are to have roofing or foundation issues.
- Drainage issues underneath the foundation
Look for broken water lines, damaged sewer lines, flooding in the home, or near the foundation. Check where your gutters and downspouts release water. If too close to the foundation, it can cause erosion.
Bottom line
If you notice that your roof is sagging or wavy, it’s best to call a professional to thoroughly inspect your roof. Here at 1845RM, we have a team of highly qualified, and certified technicians that are ready to help you. Give us a call today to set up your complimentary roofing assessment!