Roof damage can be easy to overlook, which can allow it to become worse. If you know what to look for, you may be able to spot damage to your roof before it progresses. Here are some telltale signs that your roof may need to be repaired or replaced.
Signs of Damage on the Outside
If you take a walk around your house, you may see shingles that are curled, loose, or missing altogether. You may not be able to see damaged shingles, but you may notice that the surface of the roof just doesn’t look right. Some areas may be higher than others, or the roof may be sagging in one or more places.
If shingles are loose, water can get underneath them. Moisture damage can cause the roof to deteriorate further, and it may need to be replaced.
As roofing shingles become worn out over time, the granules on their surface can wear away, which can reduce the shingles’ ability to protect your home. The roof may appear darker in areas with fewer granules. Dark patches on the roof can also indicate that moss or algae is present.
When it rains, granules can get washed into the gutters. Check the area around your downspouts, as well as in the yard and on the driveway. If you see a lot of loose granules, that may indicate that your roof has suffered serious damage.
Flashing protects areas that intersect with the roof, such as the chimney and skylights. If the flashing is damaged, that can allow water to penetrate the roof’s surface and can lead to damage inside the house.
Other Signs of Roof Damage
If roofing shingles have become damaged or have been blown off completely, water can enter the supporting structure and eventually make its way to the inside of the house. You may notice signs of water damage, such as leaks and water stains, in the attic. You may also see mold or smell an unpleasant odor upstairs.
If your roof is damaged, cold air can get into the house during the winter, and cooled air can escape in the summer. A water leak can damage insulation and prevent it from doing its job. Those types of problems can lead to high utility bills.
Schedule a Roof Inspection
It’s important to inspect your roof on a regular basis, especially after a severe storm. You can conduct a visual inspection from the ground, or you can climb a ladder if you are able to do so safely, but you should still have a professional conduct routine inspections to look for signs of damage that you might miss.
JS and R Roofing can let you know if your roof is damaged and, if so, whether it can be repaired or needs to be replaced. Contact us today to make an appointment.
