Your roof is one of the most exposed parts of your home. It serves both aesthetic and protective functions, making it valuable and important. Regular inspections are necessary to spot warning signs or problems before they transform into costly issues. When issues are discovered, you should either fix them yourself or hire a local professional roofing company to address the issue. Here are four signs you should look out for when inspecting your roof.
Missing or Damaged Shingles
Shingles are a crucial part of your roof and serve as the layer that holds it firm. Missing or damaged shingles should not be ignored, as they are a critical warning sign because they leave the underlayment exposed to water leakage. There are many ways shingles can be damaged, including cracking, curling, breaking, or being blown off by high winds.
This damage causes your roof’s waterproof barrier to fall and compromises the integrity of your roof. If ignored, this can balloon into a full-blown roof failure, which may need total replacement to rectify. Furthermore, water leakage can cause structural damage to your roof deck, which can lead to more extensive damage.
Sagging or Uneven Roofline
Sagging is caused by weak or rotten roof supports or rotting wood in the structure that holds your roof. Uneven sections of your roof should not be ignored, as they indicate serious structural issues that need to be addressed promptly. Sagging roofs can be caused by prolonged water damage, structural stress, or pest infestation.
It is essential to identify the source of the structural collapse so that you can address it before replacing the affected parts of your roof’s structure. Ignoring a sagging roof can lead to partial collapse, resulting in significant financial losses and posing a threat to the lives of occupants. Once sagging is detected, structural repairs should commence immediately.
Granule Loss and Algae Growth
Granules accumulating in the roof gutters are a sign that your roof shingles are deteriorating and losing their protective layer. This loss of granules is a result of Moss and Algae growth, which traps moisture in the roof surface. This speeds up the shingle decay and causes leaks.
These conditions will shorten the roof’s lifespan and result in costly roof replacement expenses if left unchecked. Moss and algae should be cleaned from the roof frequently, and shingles should be replaced once shingle loss is discovered. This minimises the impact of these organisms and prevents further roof damage.
Water Stains and Active Leaks
Water stains on the ceilings or walls inside your property are signs of an active roof leak. These leaks may occur randomly, but they expose your home to potential structural damage, including damage to your drywall, insulation, and framing.
If you live in Oklahoma City, be sure to contact a local roofer in OKC if you notice musty odors, damp areas, or mold growth indoors. These are signs of severe leakage and should be addressed immediately. Addressing leaks promptly minimises damage and preserves air quality, which protects your health and property.
Endnotes
Regular roof inspections and cleanings can help you identify problems early. Create a chart to regularly inspect your roof and other parts of your home, such as the attic, on a regular basis. You should also have your roof professionally inspected at least twice a year to ensure its integrity is guaranteed. If you notice any problems you can’t handle yourself, do not hesitate to get professional help.
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