Let a small problem with your roof go for a long enough time, and you will need to invest in a new replacement instead of a small roof repair. What could have cost a few hundred dollars will now cost you thousands. To detect problems with your roof early on, it is important to recognize signs of damage.
7 Signs You Need a Roof Repair
There are several things that you should look for when performing a roof inspection. Here are some of the most common issues that warrant the need for a roof repair.
1. Water Leaks
One of the most obvious signs that your roof needs repair is water leakage. Water leaks often occur due to aging or damaged roofing material. Over time, shingles can crack, curl, or go missing, providing an easy way for water to get in. The underlayment and flashing around chimneys or vent pipes can also wear or shift over time, leading to leaks.
Look out for dark or damp spots on your ceiling or walls. You may even start to see some paint bubbling in places inside your home. These bubbles indicate that water is penetrating through the roof and is pooling up inside your walls. Our professionals will conduct a thorough inspection of your roof to locate the source of the leak. As your roof ages, there is a growing chance that you will experience a leak. Typically, a roof lasts anywhere from 20-30 years. If your roof is about this old the water leaks may occur more frequently.
2. Damaged Shingles
After a big storm, you may find small shingle pieces on your lawn. You may even look at your roof and notice a shingle or two broken or missing. Shingles could get damaged due to various reasons. Weather elements like wind, rain, and hail can cause wear and tear over time. Extreme temperature changes can also lead to shingles cracking or buckling, leading to a roof repair.
When these shingles get damaged, they leave your roof vulnerable to water leaks and other issues. If you notice a lot of damaged shingles, it may be time for a repair or even a full roof replacement. If the problem is significant, it is best to call a professional to take a look.
Our team will assess the extent of the damage and decide whether individual shingles can be replaced or if a roof replacement is needed.
3. Gutters Filled With Granules
Most asphalt roofing shingles are coated with granules that help to protect against UV rays and other elements. Over time, these granules can wear away due to rain, wind, or even foot traffic on the roof. If you notice a lot of granule buildup in your gutters and downspouts, it is a sign that you may need a roof repair.
To identify this issue, start by taking a look at your gutters. If you notice a build-up of coarse, sand-like particles, these are likely to be shingle granules. An additional sign can be an inconsistent or faded color on some parts of your roof where granule loss occurs.
In some cases, the individual shingles may be replaced. However, it is imperative to assess the underlayment and the roof conditions in the area where the granules are missing. There is a significant chance that water has penetrated through the surface. If this occurs, the underlayment and roof may be compromised. Regular gutter checks for granule accumulation can ensure you catch any potential issues early.
4. High Energy Bills
As a homeowner, you might not immediately connect high energy bills to your roof repair. However, if you are noticing your heating or cooling costs creeping up, it could be a sign that your roof needs repair.
Your roof keeps the cold out during the winter and holds the cool air in during summer. However, if your roof is damaged or deteriorating, it can lose its effectiveness. The result is hot homes in the summer and freezing homes in the winter. Your HVAC systems may run constantly in order to keep up.
An easy tell if energy bills are becoming a problem is tracking them over time. If you see an unexplained increase, especially during extreme weather seasons, your roof insulation might be the culprit.
5. Growth or Mold
Your roof is designed to keep water out. However, if there is damage like missing shingles or faulty flashing, water can seep in and create an environment that is perfect for mold or other growth. This is particularly common in humid climates or if your roof is constantly shaded and does not get enough sunlight to dry out.
look for visible signs of green, black, or brown patches on your roof. These could be mold or algae. Inside your home, you might also notice a musty smell or discolored spots on your ceiling or walls. This is where there could be water damage, and you will need to disinfect the area and fix the roof problem.
Professionals will take care of the cleaning and roof repair for you. They may even suggest another professional mold remediation service if the problem is bad enough. There is a significant impact on the health and safety of everyone around the mold so often commercial equipment is required.
6. Light in Your Attic
The next time you are in the attic, take a look around the ceiling and notice if you can see any daylight. Your home’s roof is designed to keep the elements out, including sunlight. If light penetrates your attic during the day, it usually means there are gaps or holes in your roof, and you need a roof repair.
These could be due to several factors, including aging, weather damage, or even pests that have chewed through the material. If light can get through, that means water can too. This is another telltale sign that your roof needs to be repaired in order to protect your home from further damage.
This method is often better than walking around and noticing problems by sight because it helps you catch issues earlier on. Of course, you are limited to daylight hours only, and you might not have access to the entire roof area through your attic.
7. Shingles Are Curling
Over time, exposure to harsh weather conditions and fluctuating temperatures can cause shingles to curl or warp. This process happens faster if your roof is not properly ventilated, as trapped heat can also contribute to shingle curling.
There is no way to fix a shingle that has already curled. The material is already damaged and will never return to its original state. The only solution is to replace the shingle altogether. If you have too many of your shingles curling, it would require an entire roof replacement.
Shingle curling is not as common as some of the other problems unless you live in very hot areas of the world. You can help prevent your shingles from curling by paying attention to attic ventilation. Ensure your attic has enough intake and exhaust vents to allow proper airflow, reducing heat buildup in your roof space.
If you notice these or other problems with your roof, it is best to reach out to our professionals for an inspection to see if you need a roof repair or replacement.
The Best Professional Roof Repair Service
Amenity Roofing is a roofing contractor that has been servicing the needs of homeowners in Montgomery, IL, Plainfield, IL, and Genoa City, WI, for many years. We are fully licensed and insured, and our team of experienced professionals is here to assist with all of your roofing needs. Call us today at 630-636-9954 to schedule a free inspection.
