Roof Repair: How To Know When You Need It

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.