Why Roof Settlement Cracks Form

Roof settlement cracks are a result of movement. However, movement alone may not be the issue. Plus, where the movement that’s causing structure settling or shifting is coming from can be in question.

 

• • Foundation Movement

    The most obvious culprit for roof settlement cracks is foundation movement. It may sound a little unnerving, but the foundation settles unevenly (something called differential settlement), which can cause structural elements like the roof to shift. Slight movement is expected and shouldn’t cause any problems. However, even moderate movement in the foundation can cause cracks all the way up on the roof.

 

• • Soil Conditions

    In the Austin area, soil is a big topic of discussion. The metro has a variety of soil types. Going just a mile or two can make a dramatic difference in the soil. Expansive soils that swell and shrink with moisture changes can cause foundations to move, stressing the structure above. It’s critical that builders do a soil test before they design the foundation to avoid roofing problems caused by movement.

  • Humidity and Temperature Changes That Cause Roof Shrinkage

    Like all other materials, roofing is impacted by moisture in the air and temperature. Heat, freezing cold and humidity can cause roofing materials to swell and contract. If the temperature fluctuates frequently and/or there are big swings in the temperature, it’s more likely to cause cracking.

 

• Roof Movement

  Poorly braced or constructed roof trusses and rafters can move or spread, exerting pressure on walls and ceilings, resulting in cracks. Expansion and contraction of wood framing due to moisture or temperature changes can also cause cracks, especially where wood meets less flexible materials like drywall.

Why Professional Roof Repair is the Answer

Are roof settlement cracks a problem across your entire roof? Did improper installation issues contribute to the cracking? Is the problem going to happen again?

All these questions and more can be answered by a professional roofer. Given the seriousness of the problem, roof settlement cracks are something you’ll want an expert to evaluate. Their insight can help you diagnose, fix and prevent this roof problem.

A Comprehensive Inspection to Diagnose the Problem

Fixing any roofing issue should start with a thorough inspection to evaluate the situation first. There are three things that the roofer needs to evaluate if roof settlement cracks are present:

• How severe the cracks are: The width, depth, and length of the cracks help determine whether the issue is cosmetic or structural.
• If there is water damage as well: Water stains, mold, or rot can indicate that the cracks are allowing moisture intrusion, compounding the problem.
• If there are factors that contribute to the problem: Poor drainage, foundation settling, structural load issues, or previous construction defects can all exacerbate cracking.

Once the roofer has a better idea of what’s going on with the roofing system they can recommend roof repair solutions that will fully solve the problem.

 

Effective Solutions For Lasting Results

A professional roofer like LOA, will be able to present the property owner with options for fixing roof settlement cracks. As long as there aren’t structural problems and only a portion of the material is impacted, then full roof replacement probably isn’t necessary.

The best solution largely depends on the severity of the roof cracking:

• Minor Cracks: For small cracks that are less than 1/4 inch and stable, a flexible crack filler or patching compound can be enough to seal the crack and prevent water penetration.
• Moderate to Severe Cracks: For moderate to severe cracks or cracks that are getting wider, you should consult with an engineer in addition to a roofing professional since there could be significant structural movement. Repairs may involve:
  • Roof replacement for the entire roof.
  • Reinforcing the affected area with mesh or “metal stitching,” which involves embedding metal rods with epoxy.
  • Structural repairs to the foundation or roof framing.
  • Addressing water drainage or soil issues to prevent further settlement.
• Water Damage and Leaks: If the cracks have already caused leaks, more work will be needed to completely fix the problem. You’ll need to repair the roof leak to prevent further water penetration and replace any material that has water damage.

 

Help With Warranty Protection

Even if you installed your roof 10+ years ago, there’s a chance the roofing materials are still covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. If the roofer deemed that the materials were faulty and that contributed to the issue, then they should be able to help you get coverage for the new roofing products.

If there are awkward areas sealed improperly or a poor installation in general that’s an issue that should be covered by a workmanship warranty from the roofing company that installed the materials. The only problem is other companies don’t offer an extended workmanship warranty like we do, so if you have warranty coverage there’s a possibility it has expired.

 

Prevent Roof Settlement Cracks From Causing More Problems

After you deal with roof settlement cracks once, you’ll probably never want to have to do it again. The only way to ensure that cracks don’t become a future problem is roof maintenance. There are a lot of upsides to having a properly maintained roof in terms of appearance and performance.

Maintenance that’s done to prevent cracking should include:

• Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your roof, ceilings, and walls for new or worsening cracks.
• Maintain Proper Drainage: Ensure proper drainage around the foundation to minimize soil movement that can contribute to settlement.
• Structural Support: Make sure roof trusses and rafters are properly braced and anchored to maintain structural integrity.
• Address Minor Cracks Early: Repair minor cracks promptly to prevent them from worsening and leading to more serious damage.

If in doubt, always seek a professional inspection to determine whether cracks are cosmetic or a sign of deeper structural issues. Property owners in Central Texas can contact LOA at 512-375-3654 to schedule a free, no-commitment roof inspection!