A good roof is built to last for many years. But even the best materials start to break down over time, especially with the ever-changing weather conditions outside. As a homeowner, it’s important to pay attention to the quality and durability of your roof, so you know when it’s time to call for roof replacement or repair.
The right services will help you avoid common issues such as leaks and structural damage, which can impact your home value. Our team at Infinite Roofing is here to help every step of the way. Whether you need to replace a few shingles or it’s time for a full replacement, we promise durable, quality, and efficient services.
Here are seven signs of roof damage to pay attention to, helping you know when it’s time to call for roofing services:
How Old is Your Roof?
Roof age matters! And it depends on the type of materials that are on your roof. There is usually an expected lifespan for these different types of materials. For example, most residential homes have asphalt shingles, which last between 15 – 25 years. However, some properties have metal roofs that can last up to 40 – 70 years.
If your roof is reaching its age limit, then consider scheduling a roof inspection to see if there is any damage or leaking that needs to be addressed. The general recommendation is to schedule these inspections starting around 20 years after the installation, or whenever you notice damage on the roof that needs to be repaired.
Visible Shingle Distress
The appearance of the shingles can be a good indication if roof repair is needed. Sometimes you can see roof damage because of the way the shingles look. Some of these signs of problems include:
- Curling shingles
- Buckling shingles
- Balding shingles
All of these issues are signs of weathering and could also be an indication of a compromised underlayment. If there are issues with the shingles, then there is a good chance that you are also dealing with moisture damage and other related problems.
Check the Attic
If you are having problems with the roof, then there will be signs in the attic. Roof damage often results in water damage, which causes the problems to seep into the home.
So, when you schedule a roof inspection, the experts will also check the attic area. As a homeowner, you can check your attic regularly. Look for water stains on the walls or ceiling. Check it during the day to see if you can find any cracks of visible light coming through, which is an indication of missing shingles or gaps in the roof decking. Another warning sign is if the ceiling is sagging, which usually happens when there is a leak or the roof is compromised.
Missing Shingles
Look for visible signs of roof damage, such as missing shingles. These shingles can fall off as a result of wind damage, which compromises the integrity of your roof. Even though there are layers of protection under the shingles, the shingles are the first line of defense and the most durable layer that protects your home.
Storms bring strong winds, which can lift the shingles and pull them off the roof completely. This problem is more common for older roofs, especially if the shingles start to loosen over the years. In spots where one or more shingles are missing, your roof is vulnerable to accelerated damage, which can result in expensive consequences. So, it’s important to fix missing or broken shingles as quickly as possible.
Moss and Algae
Organic compounds can start growing on the roof, such as moss and algae. Not only is it unsightly to see the discoloration from this growth, but it is more than an eyesore – causing serious damage to your roof.
For example, moss growth starts to trap moisture underneath, which can cause shingle damage and rotting. Additionally, these issues can affect the integrity of the roof if the growth starts to clog the gutters, inhibiting the natural water runoff when it rains.
If you notice any moss or algae growth, then the most important thing you can do is call a professional roofing team for help. Prompt action is the best solution to restore the appearance of your roof and prevent further damage at the same time.
Flashing Failure
Flashing is used during roof installation to seal any vulnerable areas that might cause leaking in the future. For example, it’s common for flashing to be installed around vents, chimneys, valleys, and skylights.
Inspect the flashing to see if it has been damaged in any way. Signs might include cracks, gaps, and rusting. Or, you might notice that the flashing is missing completely because it fell off due to wind damage. Protect your roof by replacing or repairing flashing as quickly as possible because these areas could lead to water damage.
Granules in the Gutters
Asphalt shingles are designed with granules to protect them from sun exposure and strengthen their overall durability. Over time, the granules can start to fall off, and it’s common for them to collect in the gutters. You might notice that the shingles are still in place, but they are looking “bald” because the granules are coming off. Excess loss of granules is an indication of shingle wear and damage. Inspect the appearance of the shingles, and also check the gutters to see how much accumulation is happening. If you notice these signs, then it’s time to call a professional team for assistance.