What’s in a roof? Well, quite literally everything! A roof is essentially protection for your home against natural elements. However, it isn’t as noticeable as chipped paint on the walls of the home or broken furniture. Thus, you might not always jump to fix it.
Keep in mind that delaying roof repairs will definitely lead to bigger issues like leaks, structural damage, and mold growth. This takes thousands of dollars to repair, and often the problem gets so out of hand that you might have to move out for a while!
The best way to avoid this is to spot the early signs of damage. Here are some to look out for;
1.Shingle Deterioration
Shingles are your home’s shield against the elements. Yet they usually wear out over time. If you notice curling or cupping of your shingles this might be an early sign of aging and granule loss.
Cracks or blisters also indicate moisture infiltration or heat damage. Moreover, at certain times you might notice entire shingles missing which quickly turn into leaks.
2.Granule Loss
What is granule loss? This is simply when your asphalt shingles lose protective granules. This is natural. In fact, as your roof ages, this is to be expected.
The first sign of granule loss is discovering excess granules in gutters. Deteriorating shingles will eventually reduce your home’s protection against UV damage and water infiltration.
3.Flashing Damage
Since flashing is there to protect some of the weakest parts of your roof, if the flashing is damaged, it is a big cause for concern. When the flashing cracks or is bent upward, moisture can run inside to the roof seams. This gets even more disastrous during heavy rains.
Make sure you check for rust or corrosion as metal flashing tends to deteriorate over time. You need to also keep an eye out for loose or missing sections which could lead to potential leaks. Moreover, since caulk deteriorates after constantly being exposed to the elements, you may also notice cracks in the sealant.
4.Sagging Roofline
Notice any uneven sections on your roof. Perhaps it is time for a professional inspection. If your roof appears to sag this may be a sign of structural issues like water damage or a rotting decking.
5.Inside Your Home
A damaged roof will begin to show signs inside the house as well. You might begin to notice water stains on the ceilings as well as the walls. A musty smell or visible mold in your attic or on your walls also points towards a leaking roof.
Furthermore, excess moisture from a leaking roof often causes bubbling, cracking or peeling paint and wallpaper, so it is quite easy to spot. Plus, if light is shining through, that is also an obvious sign your roof is damaged.
Preventative Measures
Want to avoid coming across costly repairs each year? Here are some maintenance tips you may find handy;
Inspect your roof twice a year (spring and fall) and after heavy storms
Keep your gutters clean to prevent a buildup of water and ice dams
Trim any overhanging branches to reduce blockage caused by debris
Invest in proper attic ventilation to prevent heat and moisture buildup
Notice the Red Flags
The earlier you spot the red flags, the less costly the repairs will be. This is only possible through regular maintenance and inspections which professional roofing contractors can facilitate. If you suspect damage, don’t shy away from reaching out to a professional as early as possible.
