A roof protects your family and product against weather elements. The roofing of a home is designed to last up to 25 years if it is maintained properly. Since the rooftop is exposed to all sorts of things, it weathers and gets damaged. There are different things that you should consider to know the condition of your roofs like inspection and maintenance. Read on to learn how to check if your roof needs repair.
Loose or Missing Shingles
If you notice that some shingles are missing, you should replace them. Other shingles can also be curled or cracked, and this is an indication that you must repair your roof. If cracked shingles are found on the greater part of the roof, it means that they may need replacement. Dark and dirty shingles entail that they are trapping moisture. Water can get inside the roof and damage the ceiling. Another thing that you can check includes the granules in the gutters or surrounding places. You’ll find that composite shingles or asphalt often give off granules as they begin to age and become worn. These granules appear like back sand.
Roof Leaks
The most common sign that your roof needs repair includes leaks. While some leaks may be minor, with Bison Roofing, you get to understand all the problems that need attention on the roof. Some leaks are easy to repair, but if you do not have the right equipment, call a professional contractor. Leaks are caused by missing or cracked shingles. It might not be easy to detect small cracks or other problems. However, professionals can diagnose all problems and recommend appropriate repairs.
Stains and Mold on the Ceiling
Stains and mold on the ceiling and walls show that the underlayment of your roof may be allowing water to get inside. If you notice water in the basement, it means that your roof is leaking. It is essential to repair the leaks on the rooftop to address the problem. Check if there are damaged shingles, and make sure that you replace them before the issue worsens.
Sagging Roof Deck
A sagging roof deck indicates that you need to do some repairs to prevent the problem from worsening. If the rafters inside the attic are sagging, it may be due to wetness caused by water leaks. The rafters should remain straight to keep the roof in position. There is a danger that a sagging roof may collapse, so you must consider replacing it. When you notice some signs, schedule for an inspection.
You Can See Light Outside
If you see sunlight in your attic, you should know that there are cracks on the roof that must be repaired immediately. The best time to check your roof is during sunset and make sure that you switch off all the lights inside the room. Water can seep through the cracks and damage your ceiling and property inside. You must check if the shingles need replacing. It is a good idea to hire a professional inspector to give you good advice about the measures you can take to address the problem.
Dark Spots on the Rooftop
Dark spots on the roof may also indicate that your shingles need replacement. The patches also signal the growth of algae and you should remove them quickly. The growth of moss contributes to the wear and tear of the shingles. If you notice coats on the special membranes of the roofing material, it means that your roof needs attention.
Rooting Roof
Too Much Moisture in the attic can cause your roof to rot. This is common in areas with wet climates. If you see your beams changing color, you should know that they need to be repaired before the situation goes out of place. Try to find out if there are no leaks on the roof that may be causing the beams to rot.
Damages Around Roof Openings
If you notice wear and tear around roof openings like pipes, chimneys, and vents, you should know that it is time to repair your roof. The problem is likely caused by air being emitted from the house. The deterioration starts slowly, and it can develop into a bigger issue if not resolved on time. Another sign that your roof needs a repair is when you experience higher energy bills as a result of heating and air conditioning costs. Either warm or cool air will be leaking through the roof. If you address this particular problem in the attic, you will realize that your energy expenses will drop.
Flashing around the chimneys, vents, and skylights may not be straight which shows that your roof needs attention. Check all the points to ensure that there are no cracks that could cause leaks. If you see mortar falling off the roof, this is another sign of damage that is usually caused by weather conditions. You can consider replacing cement or tar flashing with a metal flashing system that is durable.
Growth of Moss
If you live in a cool climate, where your roof does not get sufficient light, moss will grow. The problem with moss is that it traps moisture which in turn will damage the granules on the shingles. While it is possible to brush off the moss, you cannot prevent it from growing. Make sure you do not damage the shingles while cleaning the moss. Another effective strategy that you can consider to prevent moss is to paint the roof.
Peeling of Paint
Peeling of paint is an indication of a failing gutter system which leads to poor drainage. When the gutters are clogged, water will spill onto the walls, and this can cause blistering. Poor attic ventilation also means that moisture and humidity will increase and this will affect the paint on the walls.
The roof of a hose can last more than 20 years if maintained well. However, environmental factors, falling trees, and extreme weather can lead to premature damage. There are different signs you can check to determine if your rooftop needs repairs. It is imperative to address these problems appropriately to extend the lifespan of your roofing system as well as ensure your family’s safety. You can consult a professional roofer to get advice about the required repairs.