The Signs That Indicate Your Roof Needs Immediate Attention
Investing in a home is one of the most important things you will ever do. You'll also want to take good care of your roof since it is one of the most significant financial investments you will make in your home. If your roof is damaged, you will notice several obvious symptoms that show the need for emergency repairs. If you spot these symptoms early on, you can save a lot of money on your roof repair.
1. The Roof is Sagging
Numerous factors can contribute to sagging roofs. An older, sagging roof shows that it may be time to replace it. If a new roof is sagging, it may be a result of improper installation. There is also a possibility that a sagging roof indicates moisture has entered the rafters, weakening them. As a consequence, a timely roof repair or replacement is necessary.
2. There Are Damaged or Missing shingles
It is possible for shingles to become loose or dislodged because of strong winds and rain. A roofing contractor should be consulted as soon as you notice any missing or loose shingles on your roof.
Having loose or missing shingles repaired is a fairly inexpensive aspect of roof care that can lead to cost savings in the future. Failing to restore missing or loose shingles can lead to more severe damage. Other times, however, missing shingles may indicate that a new roof is required. The best way to tell is to have a professional roof inspection by a qualified roofing contractor.
3. Rotted Roof Decking
You should take just as much care with your decking as you do with the shingles on your roof. Waterproof decking serves as a secondary moisture barrier in the event of a leak. This will help prevent rot from spreading. A roof with deck rot is likely to have suffered moisture damage as well since deck rot is caused by fungi and excess moisture.
4. Shingle Granules in the Gutters
If you have asphalt or composite shingles, it is not uncommon for shingle granules to accumulate in your gutters. Sometimes, if you notice large amounts of granules coming from your roof, this may indicate that the shingles need to be replaced. These particles resemble coarse, black sand.
5. The Shingles Are Curled or Cracked
As shingles near their end of life, they may swell, crack, or curl. If you notice one or two defective shingles, replace them to extend the life of your roof. The roof may require a complete replacement if you notice an excessive number of warped shingles.
6. Your Home Has Water Damage
You should have your roof inspected if you notice water damage to your walls or if you notice mold or water damage in your attic. A leaky roof may result in water damage to your walls. A damaged roof or underlayment may cause mold and mildew due to insufficient roof ventilation.
7. A Hole is In Your Roof
If you notice sunlight streaming through your attic, you have a roofing problem. It is possible for light to pass through shingles allowing rain, wind, and moisture to pass through. Sunlight beaming through your roof indicates that some shingles are damaged or that your roof has reached the end of its lifespan.
8. Your Attic is Infested with Animals
You can discover ways in which your roof has become a home for animals by looking at it from the outside. At various times throughout the day, you may notice squirrels, birds, or other animals running in and out of your roof. The presence of animals indicates that you have a large enough hole in your roof that needs to be immediately repaired.
9. Damaged Flashing
The flashing on your roof protects your roof's most vulnerable areas from water. It appears where the roof plane meets vertical surfaces such as walls or dormers and around roof features such as vents, chimneys, and skylights. You might need immediate roof repair if your flashing is lifted, rusted, or otherwise appears to be deteriorating, as it could allow water to penetrate your home.
10. Storm Damage to the Roof
The wind can easily knock down overhanging tree limbs, so you should trim them regularly if they are near your home. Branches from large trees can cause significant roof damage. Storm damage is also evident by missing or broken shingles, as well as by water entering the attic following a storm. If your roof has experienced storm damage, your first two calls should be to your insurance and a local roofing contractor.
Be on The Alert for Emergency Roof Repairs
In determining whether your roof needs repair, it's best to inspect it regularly. If you have a few damaged shingles or a small leak, a professional roofing contractor can determine whether this can be repaired or if your roof needs to be replaced.
Your roofing contractor can help you determine if your roof's warranty or insurance may cover some or all of the cost of emergency service, repair, or replacement.
If you believe your roof needs emergency service, give us a call so we can help prevent further damage.