Having a roof that is functioning correctly is vital to the safety and comfort of your family. However, it is crucial to be aware when it’s time to call a roofing repair expert to check for signs that your home’s roof might need repairs or replacement.
Look for discoloration on your ceiling, water stains, or mold in crawl spaces. These are all signs of a damaged roof that should be fixed before the rainy season.
1. Damaged Shingles
Besides being unsightly, damaged shingles indicate that your roof no longer protects your home. This damage could cause moisture to seep and wreak havoc on your interiors.
Watch for brown, black, or green shingle streaks and spots. It shows that you need to repair your roof soon. It’s time to call a roofing company to fix your roof if you notice moss or algae growing on a moist surface.
Your shingles are designed to withstand many natural elements and aging, but sometimes, even the best-made shingles can experience problems. When you spot a problem, you must immediately call a roofing repair expert. It will help to prevent more severe damage to your home and protect you from costly repairs.
2. Water Leaks
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. A roofing repair expert should be called immediately if you notice dark spots and leaks in the ceiling. These watermarks and leaks can cause damage to your possessions, mold, and rot.
Check your attic and crawl spaces regularly for signs of water damage and leaks. Look for water stains and signs of mold or mildew. If the water worsens even after it hasn’t rained, it may be from a leaking pipe, not your roof.
Excessively high energy bills are another sign it’s time to call a roof repair expert. An inefficient roof lets the elements inside your home, leading to higher energy bills.
3. Excessive Shingle Granules
When shingles start to lose their granules, this is a sign that it’s time for an inspection and roof replacement. Granules provide a protective layer that prevents water from seeping under the shingles and damaging the roof structure.
It also keeps the shingles cooler and helps them resist ultraviolet rays that can cause premature wear. A significant amount of shingle granules found in the gutters may indicate that the roof’s flashing is damaged, creating gaps between the inside of your home and the outside world.
A brand-new roof typically sheds some granules, but this is a natural part of the installation process. Excessive shedding, however, is a severe problem that should be addressed immediately. It is an indication that the underlying asphalt and other materials are deteriorating.
4. Damaged Flashing
Flashing is a thin metal installed to prevent water intrusion around roof penetrations like chimneys, vents, and skylights. Flashing should be regularly inspected for damage, leaks, and other problems. Moisture from damaged flashing can enter the roof system and cause sagging ceilings, wood rot, mold, or water stains in interior rooms.
Look for signs of rusty flashing, wrinkled flashing that develops due to dramatic weather changes, improper installation, and gaps where flashing sections have fallen off. If you notice a sudden increase in energy bills, it may be due to warm air escaping through holes in the attic or walls created by missing flashing sections. It may require a professional inspection and possible replacement. Also, look for blisters on your roof, which indicate trapped moisture and should be repaired immediately.
5. Algae and Mold
The appearance of black spots or a green-mossy fuzz on the roof is often mistaken for roof mold and can result in permanent damage. The unsightly growth is a type of algae known as Gloeocapsa lava. It can form anywhere without direct sunlight, especially on the north side of your home.
Final Words
Unlike mold, it is not toxic and poses no health risks. However, it is a major eyesore and can leave your property dirty and unkempt. The good news is the stains can be cleaned relatively easily using a safe soft wash process. It’s crucial to address the root cause of an issue so that it doesn’t recur. Otherwise, the problem will quickly spread to other areas of your house.
