Signs Your Roof Needs Replacing
A number of factors, including wind, weather, falling objects and animals can cause damage to your home's roof. A damaged roof could compromise the structural support of your house or even encourage mold and mildew growth. So spotting these signs early might save you money! Inspect your roof regularly, at least once a year. We'd suggest inspecting from the ground with binoculars to stay safe. You might also notice signs of roof damage (leaks for instance) from inside your house.
Shingle roofs are susceptible to strong temperatures, algae, and parasites. Like anything, shingles and other components age over time. Roof shingles are generally cotton or glass fiber covered with an asphalt coating that makes the roof water repellent. Sun and weather will eventually dry out the asphalt. That's when you will begin to notice signs of damage like those listed below. Compare your roof's shingles to this list to determine if your roof needs repair or replacement.
Signs of Roof Damage:
Signs of age-related damage include cracking, blistering, curling, or breaking.
Shingles that look granular or brittle should be replaced.
Look for loose or missing shingles.
Improper or missing flashing can lead to leaks where a roof meets openings, such as chimneys and skylights or where the roof meets a wall.
Loose or exposed nails may cause leaks and water damage to your roof. Loose nails create open holes, while exposed nails present a risk because water flows underneath the nail head.
A sagging roof indicates roof damage. Roofs can sag either on the slope or ridges. You may also notice sagging between the rafters in the attic.
Overflowing gutters indicate that your roof is not functioning properly. In addition, be on the lookout for excess water that collects near your home's foundation, which also signifies a roof problem.
Interior water damage is also evidence of roof damage, although it could also result from insufficient ventilation. You may notice water stains on ceilings, sagging ceilings, or wet or stained wood.
Drastic changes in your heating or cooling bills may be a result of roof damage. For example, if a leak in your roof is allowing cold air in, your heating costs may rise significantly.