Roof Problems We Commonly See in Older Greenville Neighborhoods
Greenville has a lot of beautiful older neighborhoods and older housing stock - which means we see certain roof patterns again and again.
This post isn’t meant to scare anyone. It’s meant to help homeowners understand what we commonly find on inspections so problems feel less confusing.
1) Multiple layers of shingles
Older homes are more likely to have a “roof on top of a roof.” This can:
add weight
trap heat and moisture
make leaks harder to trace
If you have recurring leaks or repairs that don’t hold, this is worth checking.
2) Chimney and wall flashing issues
Older masonry chimneys and older roof-to-wall intersections are frequent leak sources.
Flashing is the transition detail that keeps water out. When it fails, leaks can show up far from the chimney or wall line.
3) Ventilation and moisture issues
Some older homes have:
limited attic ventilation
blocked vents
insulation that hides roof deck problems
That can cause moisture to linger and contribute to decking issues over time.
4) Valleys that hold debris
Tree coverage is common in established neighborhoods. Debris can collect in valleys and:
slow drainage
force water under shingles
create repeat leak patterns
5) Older skylights and roof penetrations
Skylights, vents, and pipe boots are common leak points on any home, but older versions of these components may be more likely to crack, shrink, or separate.
What to do if you own an older home
If your home is older, the best approach is simple:
Get an inspection when you notice a problem (stain, leak, missing shingles)
Don’t assume the stain location is the entry point
Consider preventative maintenance if the roof is mid-life
If you’re in an older Greenville home and dealing with a roof issue, contact us to get on the inspection schedule and we’ll help you figure out what’s going on.
