Roof Repair: How To Know When You Need It

As a homeowner, you know your roof is one of the essential components of your home. It protects you and your family from weather and other elements, so it requires immediate attention if it’s damaged or needs roof repair. Knowing when to repair your roof can save you time and money in the long run. If you notice any signs of damage on your roof, such as roof tiles missing or broken, then a roof repair is essential. Matute Roofing is a trusted source for residential and commercial roof repairs, replacement, and maintenance in the Wayne, NJ, area. Whether your roof requires a replacement, repair, or just maintenance, we are available to help. Our trusted staff will address any of your issues and provide you with the details you need to make the most informed decision.

Signs to Look For

Interior Water Damage
Missing, Cracked, or Curled Shingles
Dark, Dirty, or Wet Shingles
Shingle Granules in the Gutters
Wear and Tear on Flashing
Sagging Roof Deck
Outside light appearing in the attic
Increased Energy Bills

Interior Water Damage

In addition to the visible exterior signs, it’s important to look for any interior leaks or water damage that may have occurred on the ceiling or walls. Numerous different things can cause discoloration or water stains on walls, but one of the significant causes is an issue with the underlayment of your roof. This problem allows moisture into your home. While a repair may remedy a situation, only a professional can tell a repair or complete replacement is better. Either way, repair or replacement is crucial in preventing more moisture from finding its way in.

Small leaks can lead to further damage if left unchecked and cause extensive repairs later. If you notice water marks in the interior ceilings, having a professional check it out as soon as possible is best.

Roof Experiences Curled, Cracked, Or Missing Shingles

Visible shingle tabs cupping or edge lifting and curling indicate that a trained, professional roofer should inspect this area of your roof. This sign is usually a result of aging and impacts the average lifespan of a roof. No matter the roof’s age, it is time for a repair or replacement is necessary when you see curled edges. Also, if you notice missing shingles, you want to repair your roof immediately. Missing shingles create issues with the integrity of the roof’s other aspects and WILL leak if the issue is put off.

Shingles Appear Dark, Dirty, Or Wet

If your shingles allow moisture to be trapped, they are by no means doing their job. Moisture may also promote the growth of moss and algae, especially in areas of your roof that do not get sunlight. While this may be a cosmetic issue initially, the chance that moss holds moisture against the roof surface increases when the moss begins to multiply. When freezing temperatures arrive, the freeze will damage the granules on the shingle. You can remove the moss, but it will likely grow back. Moss and algae are known to affect the average lifespan of a roof. Repairing portions of the roof impacted by mold or algae or appearing wet is imperative.

Granules In The Gutter

If you see abnormal amounts of granules in your home’s gutters or on the roof surface, it is time to consider roof repair. Granules are typically shed during production, transportation, and installation and can be washed away during severe storms and high winds. If you start seeing large piles of granules, it’s time for a roof inspection immediately. Composite or asphalt shingles shed large amounts of granules when worn out. These granules find their way into your gutters. Identifying these granules is relatively easy. The granules resemble black sand.

Wear And Tear Around Flashing

Deterioration typically starts developing around places where things protrude from your roof. To help eliminate issues, roofers install flashing to create a water-tight seal around the chimney or other vents during a roof installation. Usually made from aluminum or steel, it should last approximately 30 years. Unfortunately, there is an unexpected issue if you notice rust or cracks on the flashing. Water can seep into your home without immediate remedy and cause intrusion damage.

Sagging Roof Deck

If the decking or rafters in your attic are sagging downward, they may be wet from moisture leaking through your roof. Faulty roofs may cause your once-straight rafters to warp from prolonged exposure to moisture. If the issue is detected and remedied early, a roof repair can eliminate the need for a complete replacement. Unfortunately, most homeowners visit their attic spaces very infrequently. Sagging roofs may be able to be detected from the outside. It is essential to look up at your roof when you have some spare time.

Visible Outside Light

If homeowners can see the light through their roof, it is guaranteed water can also make its way in. Light may be visible around roof vents and chimneys, but if it is located anywhere else on the roof, there is likely an issue with its integrity. This allows moisture to seep in and cause damage over time. A roof repair is needed to fill these gaps and prevent further damage from occurring.

Increased Energy Bills

If you notice a sudden spike in your energy bill, your roof is one of the things you should look into. Although there are many reasons for increased energy costs, roof damage is possible. If there is roof damage, your once proper insulation may be compromised. Cool (or hot) air could pour out of your roof when the insulation and roofing materials are ineffective.

Being Prepared is Crucial

Being prepared for the worst is very important, especially when it comes to your home. The last thing you want to happen is for a minor issue to cause significant internal damage. When you suspect roof damage is a source of a problem, contacting a professional from Matute Roofing will get your problem resolved quickly and backed by numerous guarantees and warranties.

When a Roof Repair is Needed, Contact a Pro

If you require roof repairs, inspections, or other roofing replacements, reach out to the expert roofing contractors at Matute Roofing at 973-618-6489. You can also fill out our contact form or check us on social media — Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. We are here to ensure your roof does its job and looks its best for years!

Roof Repair: How To Know When You Need It