Roof damage can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, which is why knowing how to spot roof damage is crucial for the longevity of your roof. Although regular inspections and maintenance by a professional are always a good idea, there are a few telltale signs that your roof has damage. Usually, these signs can be spotted without the expert eye of a roofing contractor. And in many cases, having roof damage does not always mean you have to get a full roof replacement. You may just have to get a few shingles or tiles replaced.
If you are interested in how to spot roof damage, take a look at these few key signs to see if you need to have your roof repaired before the damage gets worse. It is also important to remember that any roof damage can lead to water damage, leaks, mold, and internal issues, which is why it is so important to consistently look for roof damage after any major storm.
One of the easiest ways to spot roof damage is by checking the shingles for damage. Common signs of damage can include cracks, chips, missing shingles, mold, lifting, or uneven surfaces. Depending on how steep your roof is, you may be able to spot roof damage from the ground. This type of roof damage is usually the result of a major storm, or multiple storms. When you encounter a storm, debris often makes its way to your roof, and that debris can knock shingles off, crack tiled roofing systems, and split wood shakes.
Any trees that have branches near your rooftop have an even higher risk of causing your roofing system damage, which is why it is always smart to trim branches that could potentially cause irreparable damage. Storms can be extremely unexpected and it is always better to be safe than sorry in terms of protecting your roof from harm’s way. It is advised to check your roof after a major storm to catch any damage that may have occurred and have it repaired as quickly as possible. Over time, if your roof is not regularly inspected and repaired, it will start to deteriorate and its lifespan will be much shorter than originally expected, and internal damage is bound to happen over time.
Depending on where you live, your roof will be at risk for specific weather related damage. If you live in a climate that is extremely hot, be aware that extreme heat can cause shingles and adhesive materials to loosen. Heavy winds that occur after your roof shingles have been loosened by the heat, can completely remove sections of your roof. Spotting damage caused by heat is a little bit harder, but can be done by a professional easily.
If you live somewhere where it rains more often than not, be cautious of water damage. This can easily be spotted by a rippling affect in your roofing system. One of the easiest types of roof damage to spot is hail damage. Hail will often leave indents in your shingle roof, gutters, and the siding of your home which makes it easy to spot, but should also be repaired as soon as possible once you notice the damage in order to avoid larger issues in the future. Hail can get as big as softballs and are carried at such fast speeds that the damage they can cause can be detrimental to your roof, especially if it has not been properly maintained.
It is important to be aware of the potential damage the climate can have on your roof. Know the damage that is associated with your region so that you can learn how to spot damage easily and contact your local roofer.
If you take a close look at the corners and edges of your roof and notice any lifting, unevenness, or even missing pieces, there is a good chance your roof will need to be repaired. This is one quick and easy way as to how to spot roof damage. Lifting and unevenness on the corners and edges is usually the result of strong winds and this sort of damage can cause greater harm later down the road if not repaired. A lifted or loose shingle allows heavy winds to have more traction to hold onto and lift the shingle and connecting shingles with greater force which means your insulation is vulnerable to potential water damage, leaks, and molding.
Although it may be too late by this point, a clear sign that you have roof damage is by checking your ceiling, walls, and attic for water damage. There are a few different ways as to how to spot roof damage by checking your home interior, and one obvious way is checking for large, discolored spots in the ceiling or wall which will indicate a roof leak. If you notice water damage inside your home, it is best to call a professional roofing contractor immediately to discuss repair and replacement options with you. Once a roof leak has made its way into your home, your home is at a much higher risk for mold, which can be a health hazard for you and your loved ones. Inspecting your roof externally on a regular basis can help eliminate the potential of a leaking roof.
We understand how much maintenance your home requires, which is why so many homeowners tend to overlook the importance of their roofs. However, your roof is actually one of the most important parts of your house! It keeps you and your family safe and helps to maintain a comfortable temperature inside.
Here is a summary of some of the key signs of roof damage to look out for:
A roof is supposed to last anywhere from 20-50 years on average, depending on the roofing material. But it can last a lot less time if you don’t take care of it properly. Regular inspections by both you and your local roofing contractor will ensure your roof’s longevity while protecting the interior of your home.
There are some roofing materials that may require more frequent maintenance than others. Spray foam roofs, for example, are durable but are still susceptible to damage from storms, hail, and even birds. Foam roofs should be frequently inspected so that any damage can be repaired right away. No matter what type of roofing material you have, we recommend getting your roof inspected at least twice a year (preferably once every 6 months). This helps ensure your roof stays in excellent condition all year long.
If you are looking for a trusted local roofing contractor to come out to your home for a roof inspection, call us today! With over 15 years in the roofing industry, we know what signs to look out for that indicate damage. If you suspect you have roof damage, don’t wait to contact us. Repairing damage right away is always better than waiting until the problem gets worse.