How To Spot A Failing Roof
Just as you’d get an annual physical, your roof needs a regular check-up. The roof of your home is an indicator of its overall health. If you haven’t called the roof doctor in a while, you may find it’s well overdue for inspection.
A roof that is failing or in danger of failing is a concern for the safety of people, pets, and possessions inside. There are a few silent signals that your roof is failing. Here’s what you should look for:
Missing, loose, curling, cracking, or blistering shingles
Missing or loose shingles can be caused by storm or hail damage but may also be a sign of age. Missing shingles should be replaced immediately to avoid the generation of leaks and rot.
Shingles that are curling or cracking are typically a sign of an old roof that’s past its prime and needs to be replaced. Blistering shingles tells tales of too much moisture, a result of inadequate roof ventilation.
Large, dark areas
Asphalt shingles are protected by small granules that fall off as roofs age or sustain damage. This protective layer is crucial to the roof’s effectiveness. If you see large areas where the granules have fallen off revealing the tar underneath, it signifies a roof in poor health. You may also find these granules in your gutters and near downspouts.
Ceiling stains
Interior stains on walls and ceilings are a solid indication that your roof underlayment is failing. Often times these leaks can be tracked and repaired individually but sometimes the leak has created wood rot and weakness in your home’s structure. A full inspection will determine if your roof needs replaced.
Damaged or missing flashing
Flashing around your chimney and roof vents is crucial for keeping moisture out of your attic and your home. If flashing is damaged or missing, it should be replaced or repaired immediately.
High heating and cooling bills
If your bills begin to skyrocket, there’s a chance poor roof ventilation is allowing desired air to escape and undesirable air in.
Visible sagging or bowing
Sagging or bowing visible from the exterior or interior of your home should be cause for alarm and should be addressed immediately. This may be caused by excessive weight from snow and ice or deterioration and rot caused by leaks and trapped moisture.
Don’t fail me now
Roofs require regular maintenance to properly protect your home. It’s never a convenient time to recognize one of these signs that your roof is failing. It is important, however, to act quickly and call a roofing professional to fully inspect repair, or replace this essential part of your home.