How often do you think about the connection between your home’s foundation and its roof? Foundation problems and roof damage tend to go hand and hand. Your roof and foundation may be far apart, but they are definitely connected. Many homes in the Dallas area experienced roof damage due to their foundation problems.
The relationship between the foundation of your house and the roof is simple. The foundation holds together the rest of the house. Problems in your foundation are, therefore, bound to cause damage to your roof. In short, any movement in the foundation causes a shift in the roof. The following is what you need to know about the connection between foundation damage and roofing!
A Foundation’s Impact on Your Roof
Often you can see roof damage from foundation problems by looking along the ridgeline. The ridge or top of the roof will be bowed or curved. The roofline may have a noticeable hump or a dip. You need a proper foundation drainage system. With that, you should be able to avoid costly home repairs.
After all, issues with the foundation build up over time. If you are not a structural expert, it will be very difficult to detect them. Even when you do discover foundation problems, you might not know all the symptoms that come as early indications of a bigger problem.
But for what reason are most homeowners totally unaware of these symptoms? A wide combination of reasons is to blame for that.
It may be that the homeowner has moved from other parts of the country where such problems with foundations didn’t exist. It’s also possible that they’re a first-time homeowner and are unaware of the landlord duties that come along with homeownership.
Whatever the reason, here are factors to bear in mind as you purchase a home and what you should know as you occupy it. Make sure you know the following in regard to foundation problems:
- They are common in homes located in neighborhoods of moist land and creeks.
- Most prone in homes that don’t have a sprinkler system.
- Homes without a proper gutter system are the most vulnerable.
- In Texas, homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover such damages.
- They are very costly.
- You must repair them before you think of replacing your roof.
What To Expect After Foundation Repair
Following foundation repair, it may take 4 to 6 weeks for the roof to settle. This is because the wood is hard, and has attempted to conform to the shape of the sagging foundation. The foundation pulled down the walls and the walls pulled down the roof.
You might think that it is self-serving for a foundation repair company to recommend foundation repair before roof repair including new shingles. If the roof is repaired before the foundation is lifted, shingles may buckle and lead to new roofing leaks.
Tackling foundation problems and roof damage at the same time can be daunting, but will be much more beneficial in the long run! To avoid costly roof damage, it’s important to catch a foundation problem in the early stages. For every inch that the foundation drops, the roof will move an equal amount. Usually, the roof is sufficiently resilient to withstand a 1″ to 2″ lift. Any more than that and the roof will suffer.
Like almost any other repair, the longer you wait to repair your foundation, the worse the problem will be. Your roof is a very important piece of your home, it prevents weather and other elements from entering the home. Many people have it inspected regularly and repaired when needed.
Your foundation is just as important. This means that you should have your foundation evaluated regularly and when needed, repaired. Although your roof and foundation are in opposite locations of the home, they are very much connected. A well-watered and good foundation will provide a home with a good structure, all the way up to the roof.
Bottom Line
If you spot roofing issues, it may be linked to a damaged foundation. Knowing what to look for can help you in the long run. It’s best to call in an expert to inspect your property if you suspect damage to either your roof or foundation.
For tips on foundation maintenance, types of foundation repair, or more information about foundations, please contact Granite Foundation Repair, serving the Dallas, Ft. Worth area. We’re the experts to trust with your home’s structural integrity