As a homeowner, you want your home to look its best and provide reliable protection from the elements. A key component of this protection is a properly installed, smooth, and even roof. But what if you’ve recently had work done on your roof and it looks wavy?
Our professional exterior remodeling and roofing team at Ganser Company discusses the causes behind a wavy roof and its consequences if left unchecked. We’ll also provide a few tips on addressing the issue effectively.
Causes of a Wavy Roof
A wavy roof can be both an eyesore and a potential problem for your home. Understanding the root cause of this issue is key. We’ve listed some of the common causes below.
Improper Installation of Roofing Materials
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Incorrect Nailing Patterns. The way your shingles are nailed down can significantly impact your roof’s appearance. If the nails are not spaced properly or driven at incorrect angles, your shingles may not lay flat, resulting in a wavy appearance.
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Improperly Aligned Shingles. When shingles aren’t aligned correctly, they can create a noticeable wave pattern across the roof. This can occur if the shingles are not staggered properly or are not lined up with the edge of the roof decking.
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Incorrect Use of Underlayment. The underlayment is an essential component of your roof system, providing a barrier between the shingles and the decking. If the underlayment is not installed correctly, such as being wrinkled or bunched up, it can cause the shingles to appear wavy.
Inadequate Roof Decking
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Warped or Damaged Decking. If the decking material (typically plywood or OSB) is warped or damaged, it can create an uneven surface for your shingles to lay on. Unless addressed by a professional roof repair contractor, it can cause the shingles to conform to the shape of the decking. This results in a wavy appearance.
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Insufficient Thickness. Roof decking should be of the proper thickness to support the weight of the shingles and maintain a smooth, even surface. If the decking is too thin, it may flex under the weight of the shingles, causing them to appear wavy.
Structural Issues With the Building
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Uneven Rafters or Trusses. If the rafters or trusses supporting your roof are not spaced evenly or are unleveled, the roof’s surface will be uneven. This can cause the shingles to lay irregularly, resulting in a wavy appearance.
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Settling or Shifting of the Building. Over time, homes can settle or shift on their foundations, which can cause the roof to become uneven. This can lead to a wavy roof as the shingles are forced to conform to the shifting structure.
Consequences of a Wavy Roof
Leaving a wavy roof unaddressed can have aesthetic and functional consequences for your home:
Aesthetic Concerns
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Decreased Curb Appeal. A wavy roof can detract from the overall appearance of your home, making it look poorly maintained and potentially lowering its curb appeal.
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Negative Impact on Property Value. An uneven roof can signal potential structural issues to prospective buyers and reduce overall property value.
Functional Concerns
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Increased Risk of Leaks. A wavy roof could mean that your shingles are not sealing properly, allowing water to seep underneath and potentially causing leaks or water damage.
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Reduced Lifespan of Roofing Materials. Improperly installed shingles or decking can lead to premature wear and tear on your roof. They can decrease the overall lifespan and lead to a costly roof repair or replacement sooner than expected.
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Potential Damage to the Building Structure. If the cause of the wavy roof is a structural issue, it could put undue stress on your home’s framing and potentially lead to more severe problems later on.
How to Identify the Causes
Determining the root cause of a wavy roof may require a combination of visual inspection and consulting with a professional roofing contractor:
Visual Inspection of the Roof
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Look for uneven shingle alignment. If the shingles are not lined up correctly or are not staggered properly, they can cause a wavy appearance.
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Check for visible signs of damage to the decking. Inspect your roof for areas where the decking appears to be warped, sagging, or damaged.
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Inspect the overall structure of the building. Look for signs of settling or shifting in your home that could be impacting the roof. These can include cracks in the foundation or walls.
Consult With a Professional
An experienced exterior remodeling and roofing contractor will have the knowledge and expertise to properly diagnose and address the cause of your wavy roof. A professional can assess the situation and recommend the most appropriate course of action, whether that involves extensive repairs or a complete roof rebuild.
Options for Addressing a Wavy Roof
Depending on the cause of your wavy roof, there are different approaches to fixing the issue:
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Roof Repair. A roofing contractor can remove and replace the shingles affected by the incorrect installation to create a smoother appearance. If the decking is the source of the problem, they can repair or reinforce it to provide a more even surface.
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Roof Rebuild. In some cases, the cause of the wavy roof may be severe enough to warrant a complete roof rebuild to address the issue fully. If the root cause is a structural issue, a contractor may need to work with other professionals to address the problems with the building’s framework.
Tips for Preventing a Wavy Roof
To prevent a wavy roof, consider the following recommendations:
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Hire a reputable roofing contractor. Take the time to research potential contractors and check for reviews, references, and proper licensing and insurance. Make sure that any contractor you hire has the necessary licensing and insurance to work on your home.
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Keep your roof well-maintained. Schedule routine inspections. Regularly inspecting your roof for potential issues can help you catch and address minor problems before they lead to a wavy appearance. Taking prompt action to repair small issues can help prevent bigger, more costly problems down the line.
Conclusion
A wavy roof might seem like a minor issue, but it can signal more significant problems and lead to reduced curb appeal and potential damage to your home. Don’t let this issue compromise the beauty and functionality of your home. Call the experts at Ganser Company in Madison, WI, today at (608) 222-1243 for an estimate of your roof rebuild. You can also contact us online to schedule a consultation and get your roof back in top shape.