A sagging roof is an unmistakable sign and it never should be
dismissed. Whether a slight sag in one area or a noticeable
bow throughout the entire structure, roof sagging indicates
a structural issue that can result in leaks, interior damage, or
even collapse if not addressed. At Straight Path Construction,
we assist Calgary homeowners in determining the source and
repairing sagging roofs before they pose a risk. Let’s examine
the most prevalent reasons why your roof may be sagging and
what to do in those situations.
Common Causes of a Sagging Roof
The most common reason for sagging roofs is damage from
moisture. When water penetrates shingles or underlayment,
it can compromise the wooden roof decking and structural
members. With time, the wood becomes soft, rots, or warps,
resulting in dips or uneven spots visible to the eye. In Calgary’s
winter weather, inadequate insulation or ice dams can exacerbate
this by trapping moisture on your roof.
Heavy Snow or Ice Buildup
In cold climates such as Calgary, sagging can also result from
heavy snow or ice accumulation that stresses the roof by placing
too much weight on it. Flat and low-slope roofs are particularly
susceptible. Although roofs are made to support loads,
repeated snow loading or cycles of melting and refreezing may
cause support beams to be weakened, resulting in sagging or buckling.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
A droopy roof tends to begin quietly, but the telltale signs
become more evident with each passing time. Ripple or wavy
shingles, appearing dips among rafters, or gutters sagging
away from the roof edge are all indications that something
is amiss. Inside, you may observe water stains, dropping ceilings,
or cracks at wall tops. If you notice any of these, it’s essential to
arrange an inspection immediately before more harm is done.
Why Timely Repair Is So Important
Procrastinating repairs to a sagging roof can result in much
more expensive structural damage in the long run. What begins
as a small problem can easily extend to rafters, insulation, drywall,
and even the foundation of your home. Acting promptly
prevents significant restoration expenses and ensures the safety
of your family. At Straight Path Construction, we move quickly
to determine the problem, provide the proper repair, and
restore the safety and integrity of your roof so that you
don’t have to stress.
Poor Construction or Aging Materials
If your roof was constructed using undersized rafters or cheap
materials, it might not be robust enough to hold up by itself
in the long run. Older roofs with compromised trusses or
flaking shingles can also start sagging after years of weathering.
If your house is older than 20 years, sagging might be a sign it’s
time for a complete replacement.
Damage to Structural Supports
Occasionally, the issue isn’t with the roofing material but
rather the structure below. If load-bearing walls or interior
framing have moved from foundation movement or water
intrusion, the stress is able to transfer to the roof and cause it
to sag or bow. This kind of damage will take both structural
and roofing repairs.
Final Thought
A sagging roof isn’t merely a cosmetic issue, it’s a sign of
something more. Whether it’s due to snow, rot, or old age, it
needs to be checked and fixed as early as possible. With Straight
Path Construction, we have the expertise to determine the cause
of the problem and provide safe, efficient fixes to return the shape
and structure to your roof.
Call to Action
Seen your roof beginning to sag or droop?
Contact Straight Path Construction today or visit our website for
a free roof inspection in Calgary. We’ll assess the damage and
recommend the right fix before it becomes a bigger problem.
