Roofing repairs and replacements are among the most expensive home maintenance jobs. Shingle roofs last 10-20 years, depending on the quality of the shingles and the environment they are located in, and often cost $10,000 or more to replace. In many cases, roof damage can be repaired without replacing the whole roof. However, once the roof has reached the end of its natural life, it is usually better to replace the whole thing rather than continue to patch damaged areas. Here are some signs that you should call a roofing expert to inspect your roof:
Water Leaks
If you notice water stains on your ceiling or walls, it could be a sign of a leak in your roof. A roofing expert can identify the source of the leak and determine the best course of action. Sometimes the cause of a leak is easy to find and fix while other times the entire roof needs replaced. Water stains can also be caused by improper drainage in areas like valleys, or gutter problems causing ice build-up.
Moss or Algae Growth
It is never a good sign to have plants or moss growing on your shingles. Not only could this be a sign of water damage or poor ventilation, but it can also further damage the roof by collecting and holding moisture. Any time your roof is beginning to develop a moss or algae problem, a roof cleaning is required to clear the debris. You should also call a roofing contractor who can inspect the roof and recommend solutions to prevent further damage.
Damaged Shingles
In some cases, you can easily see roof damage without having an inspection. If you notice that your roof has missing, cracked, or curling shingles, it could be a sign of damage or wear and tear. A roofing expert can inspect the shingles and determine if the roof needs to be patched or replaced.
A Sagging Roof
Occasionally, a roof will sag if the supports or trusses are damaged, rotten, or insufficient to hold the load. If your roof appears to be sagging, it could be a sign of structural damage or water damage. A roofing expert can inspect the roof and determine the cause of the sagging. Regardless of the cause, a sagging roof can be dangerous and should be inspected and the cause remedied immediately.
Granules in Gutters
If you notice granules in your gutters, it could be a sign of shingle damage or wear and tear. The granules are small pieces of your shingles that have washed down over time and this can mean that your shingles are wearing out. A roofing expert can inspect the shingles and determine if they need to be repaired or replaced.
The Age of the Roof
If your roof is over 15 or 20 years old, it may be time for a professional inspection. A roofing expert can inspect the roof and determine if it needs to be repaired or replaced. Most shingle roofs should be regularly inspected after their expected life is over. Even though roofs can last longer than expected in some situations, it’s important to have them inspected regularly so they can be replaced before you develop leaks that can contribute to expensive interior damage.
High Energy Bills
Find out if your energy bills are abnormally high for your area and family size. If your energy bills are higher than normal, it could be a sign of poor insulation or ventilation in your roof. Another way to evaluate the insulation in your attic is to look at it and see how much insulation is present, if it has been damaged, and if it is still in place as it should be. A roofing expert can inspect the roof and attic and recommend solutions to improve energy efficiency.
Dents or Punctures
Any time you have visible roof damage such as dents or punctures in your roof, it is a sign of damage from causes such as falling debris or severe weather. A contractor can inspect the roof and recommend solutions to prevent further damage. It is a good idea to visually check your roof for damage and fallen branches after bouts of severe weather.
Animal Damage
If you notice signs of animal activity on your roof or in your attic, such as nests or scratches, it could be a sign of damage to the roof or insulation. In some cases, the signs of animal infestation are heard rather than seen. Many animals make scuttling, scratching, or squeaking sounds, especially at night. A contractor can inspect the roof and recommend solutions to prevent further damage. You will also need an exterminator to remove the animals and give you advice on preventing further intrusion.
Visible Light From the Attic
It seems obvious, but if you can see daylight coming through your roof into your attic, it could be a sign of damage or wear and tear. You could have areas that are punctured or areas where the underlayment of the roof has been damaged. Either cause can create areas of leaking and water damage. A roofing expert can inspect the roof and determine the repairs that are needed.
Tree Debris
If your roof has a build-up of plant debris such as dropped branches, fallen nuts, or piles of wet leaves, it could be causing damage to the areas underneath the debris. This is usually a problem in the fall when trees are dropping leaves but it can happen anytime. It’s important to regularly inspect these areas and clear the debris so that moisture won’t be held against the roofing material. If you get debris build-up often, you may need to have a roofing contractor inspect your roof and nearby landscaping to help you come up with a solution.
Conclusion
Overall, if you notice any of these signs, it’s important to call a roofing contractor to inspect your roof and determine the best course of action to repair or replace your roof. This can help to ensure the safety and longevity of your home. Delaying the inspection or repair of your roof could lead to an increased risk of interior water damage, animal infestations, and repair expenses.
