Roof damage is inevitable. There isn’t much that you can do to prevent it. However, what you can do is make sure that any damage that occurs is fixed on time. You cannot expect your roof to stay in its finest form, considering that it is exposed to harsh environmental factors round the clock.
Like everything else, your roof needs regular touch-ups. The question is – how can you tell that your roof has suffered damage and is need of a repair? We have listed down indications of roof damage that will help you have a well-maintained roof that lasts a very long time.
1. Missing Shingles
Strong gusts of wind, heavy rainfall, or snowfall can result in the loss of shingles from your roofing. If you see shingles missing from the surface, you will need to hire a professional roofer to get the shingles fixed. When the shingles are missing, it exposes the parts of roofing underneath them to environmental factors and thus puts your roof at a higher risk of damage due to natural elements. In case of such roof damage, you need to address the issue right away.
2. Curled Asphalt Shingles
If your asphalt shingles appear curled at the edges, it indicates that your roof has been damaged by water. If you don’t get it fixed on time, the wood decking underneath is exposed at a much higher risk of water damage.
3. Flashing
Flashing around the chimney, vent pipe, or rooftop often hides roof damage. If the flashing does not appear to be in the best of condition, there is a high probability that your roof has serious water damage. Issues with flashing are one of the most common reasons why leaks in flat roofing occur. Getting the flashing repaired is quite expensive but necessary, nonetheless.
4. Signs of Aging
A roof, like everything else, has a lifespan, beyond which it starts to lose its aesthetics and functionality. If you see any signs of aging of your roof, it is probably high time that you either get it fixed or replaced. Some signs of aging include missing or cracked shingles, blistering paint, dark spots or widespread discoloration, and a spike in your energy bills.
5. Leaking Roof Beams
Another area that you should inspect for roof damage is roof beams. Check for any sunlight that is coming through the roof beams in your attic. If there is, the chances that the water may already be seeping in through the open spaces are high. This puts your house at an additional risk of mold growth. Leaking roof beams calls for an immediate roof repair.
6. Roofing Granules in Gutters
It is quite common to find leaves and debris in your gutters, but if you see any roofing granules in your gutter, you need to call a professional roofer right away! Roofing granules in gutters is not at all common, and it is a major indication of roof damage.
Summary
Roof damage should be taken seriously. Keeping an eye on any visible signs of roof damage can help prevent major roof damages. Some of the indications that show that your roof is need of repair include missing or curled shingles, discoloration, roofing granules in the gutter, and leaking roof beams.
