Roofs are surprisingly durable and can last for decades, but they do need repairs and replacements from time to time. For instance, according to a survey by Roofing Insights, roofing replacements make up over 90% of both the market's volume and value, which is the largest portion of the overall North American roofing market.
But how do you know when to contact a roofing company? Here are the top six signs to watch out for.
Roof Leaks
Roof leaks are one of those repairs that need immediate attention because they can cause a lot of damage over time. Typically, if you notice any water stains or dark marks on your walls and ceiling, this is a good sign you have a roof leak that's causing water damage. Another way to spot a leaky roof is to go up to your attic on a sunny day to see if there's any daylight coming through. Even a small leak means you need to contact a reputable roofing company as soon as possible to prevent problems like rotting wood and mold growth.
Missing Shingles
Missing shingles are a clear sign you need a roofing company. A roof with missing shingles doesn't protect your home properly, not to mention that it can be an eyesore. Remember, shingles are there to prevent moisture penetration, so if there are missing shingles, this can lead to more serious forms of damage under your roof. When you contact a professional roofing company, they will replace the missing shingles while also assessing your roof for other signs of damage. Your roofer will also check for any loose shingles that can easily be blown away and replace those as well, so you won't find more missing shingles in the future.
Visibly Damaged Shingles
Shingles that are showing visible signs of damage are just as bad as missing shingles because they can't protect your home properly. That's why damaged shingles also need to be replaced. The most common types of shingle damage are cracking, curling, and peeling. Damaged shingles can also lead to accumulated granules, which happens when the shingles start disintegrating. The granules from the shingles tend to accumulate in gutters and downspouts and may cause problems there. In any case, this deterioration results in shingles that are no longer effective. If a large portion of your roof has damaged shingles, then it's probably better to start preparing for a roof replacement.
Paint Damage and Mildew Growth
When you check the exterior of your home that lines the roof, do you notice any paint damage? If there are issues with your roof, the paint is bound to be peeling, blistering, or stained. This is caused by moisture seeping through your roof, meaning that an exterior paint job won't fix the problem. It's best to have a roofing company inspect your roof and fix the problem before fixing the paint damage. Similarly, the moisture seeping through your roof can cause all kinds of problems that affect your home's exterior. For instance, you may notice mildew, moss, or algae growing on your siding or roof. These things thrive on moisture, and while you may not mind moss growing on your roof, you shouldn't ignore the message your roof is trying to communicate.
Spike in Energy Bills
It may seem like a stretch, but changes in your heating and cooling bill may be linked to the state of your roof. More specifically, if your roof isn't doing a good job of keeping your home protected, it means it can let hot air escape in winter while letting warm air inside during summer. This causes your HVAC system to work hard, and you may see a spike in your energy bills for no apparent reason. It's in your best interest to get this issue fixed quickly to avoid costs adding up over time.
Sagging Roof
Fortunately, a sagging roof isn't hard to spot though it can be cause for alarm. After all, if your roof is sagging, it means that there's something structurally wrong. So, if you notice sagging at any point along the roofline, be sure to contact a roofing company to ensure your roof has all the support it needs. You will have more peace of mind knowing your roof and your home are structurally safe.
See any of these signs? Then any time is a good time to get in touch with a roofing company. However, getting the issue fixed quickly can save you from costly repairs. Contact us today to discover what we can do to keep your roof in top-notch condition and your home protected.