Did you know the roofing contractor industry is worth over $52 billion in the United States?
With so many contractors to choose from, having a damaged roof isn’t the biggest deal, but it’s still important to have the problem fixed before things can get worse. That’s where knowing what to look for comes in handy. Where should you even start, though?
Luckily, we’re here to help. Read on to learn nine of the biggest signs of roof damage.
1. Damaged Shingles
The first issue is one that’s pretty easy to spot. Take a look at your shingles — are any of them damaged? If you notice curling, cracking, buckling, or missing shingles, it’s important to have them replaced as soon as possible.
Shingles are your home’s first line of defense, and if they go unfixed it can lead to a lot of larger problems.
2. Attic Problems
This is where larger problems can lie. If you have water damage or notice wet spots and moisture in your attic, that means there’s a leak somewhere you have to track down. It’s good if you haven’t noticed leaks inside your home, but wet insulation can mean a difficult-to-find leak.
That’s where calling in a professional is going to be helpful. They’ll have a much easier time finding the leak, and you’ll have your repairs done much more quickly.
3. Check Your Seals
Next, you’re going to check your seals. That means your skylights, chimney seals, and also your vents. If you notice any cracks or breaks in any of these areas, it might be a good idea to consider flashing them.
Some homeowners use caulk in these areas, but flashing is going to give you better protection during major storms.
4. Water Stains
Discoloration on one part of your roof can mean repairs are going to be needed. Your roof is built to shed water as it hits the surface, but if it’s lingering there then that means moisture is getting trapped between the shingle and the roof sheathing.
Even if you’re not experiencing leaks inside, it’s important to have those stains checked out before they lead to other problems.
5. Damaged Gutters
You might not initially think of gutters when you’re tending to your roof, but they play an important role in your home’s overall weatherproofing. They also face a lot of risks during storms and other weather events, like fallen branches or leaf buildup.
If you notice that your gutters have started sagging, overflowing during storms, or even pulling away from your roof, it’s a good idea to call out a professional to check things out.
You can also check your gutters to make sure they’re cleaned before you take this step, but a professional is going to be able to clean them out and ensure there isn’t any extra damage.
6. Sagging
Sagging might not seem like a common occurrence, but it is a serious one. It often points to water damage and, if left unchecked, can have a serious impact on your roof. A roofing contractor, however, is going to be the best person to tell you how to fix these issues.
Sometimes, all you’ll have to do is reinforce some rafters. Other times, though, the problem can be more serious and you might have to completely replace the roof.
7. Mold and Moss
As you examine your roof, be sure to look for moss, fungi, or mold. If you notice these anywhere, it can point to trapped moisture in your roof. As that moisture builds up, it can spread to other areas and cause a lot of unnecessary damage.
It can also lead to mold spreading throughout your house, meaning potential health risks for both you and your family.
If you notice any of these things, it’s important to call a professional out to help your home.
8. Notice Any Bouncing?
If you’re walking across your roof and notice a slight sponginess that almost feels like you’re bouncing, it could mean moisture has begun to weaken your roof. If you’re not careful, that bouncing can lead to sagging, which means extra water damage.
If you notice this feeling, it’s important to call out a roofer. They’ll be able to tell you whether your roof needs to be repaired or replaced, and you can come up with a custom solution.
9. How Old Are Your Roof Records?
Your roof can last about 30 years depending on its material, but it’s also going to depend on where you’re located. So, if you live in a rainy or humid area, that could mean a shorter lifespan.
Your roof’s records are important to take a look at because they can tell you just how long your house has had its current roof. You might not notice any of the signs we just talked about, but you can stay ahead of the curve and call out a professional to have things inspected before they go awry.
You might not have to call someone out if your last inspection was recent, but if it’s been 10 or more years, then it’s smart to call in an expert.
Do You Have a Damaged Roof?
If you have a damaged roof, it might not always be obvious. As you can tell, sometimes the signs don’t show themselves until the damage is extensive and the repairs you have are a lot more pricy and time-consuming. If you’re not experiencing these symptoms yet, though, there are still things you can do.
Whether you need a roof repair or you’re simply after maintenance, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get started.
