The roof is a critical part of a home that protects the inhabitants and their belongings from rain, snow, and wind. It should be inspected regularly for signs of damage and deterioration.
Taking care of minor issues early on can prevent significant problems later on, such as interior leaks. Here are the top five signs that it’s time to call roofing contractors.
Shingles Are Missing or Damaged
Your roof is your home’s primary defense against rain, wind, and harsh weather conditions. It must be inspected regularly and watch for any signs of damage or leaks.
One of the first signs that it’s time to call for professional roofing services, like in roofing company San Antonio, is if you notice any missing or damaged shingles. These can be spotted from the ground or (if it’s safe) inside your home.
A shingle’s protective granules can lose their grip over time due to atmospheric changes, weather, and long-term use. If you see a significant amount of these in your gutters or on the ground, it’s a sign that your roof needs repairing or replacing. This is because it exposes the underlying structure to moisture that can soak your interior walls, floorboards, or insulation.
Water Damage
After a big storm, you’re likely to have a lot of water damage to your walls and ceilings. These stains and slight color discolorations are often the result of an undetected leak in your roof. The sooner you can call roofing contractors to take a look, the better. This will help you avoid significant, costly water damage to your home’s structure and possessions.
The best way to spot signs of water damage is to look for stains on your ceilings and walls, especially after rainstorms. However, water damage can also happen from other sources, such as a clogged drain or sewer backup. Ensure to note the start of your injury if you need to file a claim with insurance.
Sunlight Peeping Through
We all know the sun’s rays can damage skin, but did you realize they can also damage the materials on your roof? Direct sunlight can cause roofing materials to dry out, which leads to leaks and energy loss as warm or cold air moves through the cracks. Additionally, this process can lead to rot and mold. Humid environments, like those in Texas, can worsen this issue, as the humidity will increase the amount of moisture that seeps through the materials and into the home.
It is essential to be proactive and call a roof repair service when you notice signs of wear. This can help nip problems in the bud and reduce the need for expensive repairs or replacements.
Wind Damage
Wind damage can be one of the most devastating aspects of a storm or other natural weather event. High winds can turn unsecured objects into airborne missiles, causing severe property damage and potentially harming structures like homes.
A roof is especially vulnerable to winds ranging from 40-45 MPH. These winds can cause shingles to become loose and fall off, and they can also damage chimneys. Winds can take down whole tree limbs at higher speeds, uproot trees, and even overturn tiny mobile homes.
Checking your roof for signs of wind damage is an easy thing you can do after a storm or other natural weather event. Walk around your property, or get on a ladder (if it’s safe) and look for missing shingles. You can also look for water stains on the ceiling to identify roof leaks.
Old Age
Roofs also age over time, like the wrinkles on your face and gray hairs on your head. And just as we age, it’s important to recognize when your roof needs expert care and a replacement.
Signs of aging include curling shingles, granule loss, sagging areas, and leaks or water damage. If you’ve recently purchased your home, finding records or receipts that detail the roof maintenance and repair work completed by previous homeowners can make determining the roof’s age much easier.
Keeping your roof in good condition ensures your family stays comfortable, safe, and secure. Ignoring minor signs of deterioration can increase the cost and duration of needed repairs or replacements, so staying ahead of the curve and seeking professional roofing services when necessary is essential.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.