A roof is one of the most important parts of a house or building. Unfortunately, it’s also often overlooked.
You should regularly inspect your roof, especially after a storm, to ensure it’s in good condition. Look for the following signs that it’s time to call a roofing contractor:
Damaged Shingles
Severe thunderstorms, high winds, and snow storms can damage your roof. They can dislodge shingles, blow off shingle strips, create cracks in the underlayment, and tear or loosen flashing.
If you see signs of damage to your shingles, acting quickly is important. Depending on the extent of the damage, it may require a repair or full replacement.
Look for shingles that are curling at their edges or have a clawing effect. These shingles do not effectively protect your home, leaving it vulnerable to leaks and other problems. Also, get a roofing contractor to check the attic to see if light is coming through. This is a sign that the underlayment has become compromised or there is poor attic ventilation, which can lead to shingle damage.
Leaks
A leak is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. It could cause interior and exterior damage, lead to fungi growth, or allow intruding wildlife into your home. Leaks are often a sign that the structure of your roof is deteriorating and needs to be replaced.
A roof is one of the most important parts of any home. It protects the rest of your house from heavy rain, snow, and debris. Taking care of your roof and replacing it when needed is critical for maintaining the value of your home. Thankfully, several warning signs will alert you to needing a new roof. These include water stains, shingle granules in the gutters, a sagging roof, and higher energy bills.
Missing Shingles
No roof is invincible; even a shingle-designed roof will eventually get worn down. Severe thunderstorms and other weather events can dislodge shingles, knock tree branches onto the roof, or cause general wear and tear on your roof.
Missing shingles are a clear sign that your roof needs repair or replacement. The black underlayment on the top of your roof is easy to spot, and the dark asphalt contrasting with it makes areas that are missing shingles stand out vividly.
A missing shingle left unaddressed can lead to a leak, especially in heavy rain. Although the felt paper underneath may repel some water, it’s a temporary solution, and your roof needs immediate attention. Seeing granules in your gutters indicates that your roof needs repair.
Damaged Flashing
A roof’s flashing protects vulnerable parts of the roof, including seams and corners. However, natural wear and tear, exposure to the elements, and material stress can cause flashing damage. Often, this damage takes the form of rust spots or corrosion on the metal. Eventually, these corroded areas can develop holes.
If left unaddressed, these holes can allow water to infiltrate your home. This water can lead to costly structural damage and create the ideal environment for mold growth. It can also rot wooden structures and damage insulation. In addition, a leaking roof is a serious health risk for you and your family. That’s why regularly checking for signs of roof flashing damage is important. A roofing company can repair or replace damaged flashing to prevent leaks.
Water Stains
Water stains aren’t just unsightly and signal a need for roof repair. Leaks usually cause them, and if not addressed promptly, they can lead to interior damage, structural problems, higher energy costs, and an inviting environment for mold and insects.
Inspect your home for water stains by climbing into the attic and looking for spots where daylight is coming through the roof boards. It’s also a good idea to check for cracked or discolored shingles, as these are signs of roof damage. Use chlorine bleach and rubber gloves when cleaning any stains from walls or ceilings. The bleach will help neutralize the odor and leave the wall or ceiling looking fresh again. Please don’t ignore these warning signs; they will only worsen over time.
