A crooked roof: This is something many older, Cobb-area homes have. Why? As a home settles over the years, foundation can shift. This causes walls to buckle and the roof to appear crooked. Age is often the reason for crooked roofs, however there are other causes as well.
Here’s a closer look at what could be creating a roof’s crooked appearance:
- The soil may shift, causing one side of the home to sink into the ground. In these cases, the roofline may look crooked when in reality, the issue is the foundation.
- The foundation can crack.
- Gutters may become loose, making the roofline appear as though it’s crooked.
- Shingles may have been improperly installed, contributing to an uneven look.
What Should You Do?
When you notice a crooked roofline, you should hire a roofing expert. The professional should assess your entire home and look for signs of foundation issues or gutter problems. The pro should also carefully inspect the roof for problems (such as faulty shingles, a sagging roof, a problem with the ridges, broken collar ties, issues with trusses or warping in general).
If the issue stems from the roof, the expert can address those problems. If the problem is minor (such as sagging in one area of the roof), you should be able to get away with a minor, less-costly fix. However, if there are multiple issues (with the rafters, for example) you may need to replace the entire roof.
Hiding Trouble Spots
If you’re not able to invest in a roof replacement or a simple fix, you can attempt to adjust the gutters so that the roofline appears even. If the foundation is the root of the problem, it’s best not to leave this issue unchecked. Fix the foundation right away, and you’ll ensure an even roof at the same time. It’s also possible to remove siding and install wood, brick or cement board to overcome odd angles in an older home.
There’s not always a simple fix for a crooked roof. The most important thing to remember is that an uneven roofline is often the sign of a serious problem – either with the foundation or the roof. Always consult a roofing expert for help with a problematic roofline.
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