6 Sneaky Signs of Roof Problems
Unless your roof is showing serious signs of damage, you may believe everything is fine. However, some problems start off small and progress gradually. Identifying these issues early can prevent damage to other parts of your home and help you avoid significant repairs. Be on the lookout for the following roof issues so you can have them addressed before bigger problems arise.
1. Signs of Aging
If your roof is more than about 20 years old, it may be time for a replacement. Signs of an aging roof include strange textures (which could mean the shingles are curling, cracking, or blistering) and missing shingles (perhaps even just one shingle), indicated by a dark patch. While older roofing materials had shorter lifespans, newer roofs can last your home several decades.
2. Algae or Moss
Alternatively, dark or dirty-looking areas on your roof may be a sign of algae or moss growth. It’s important to remove any types of live growth as soon as possible, as it could spread elsewhere throughout your house.
3. Granules in Your Driveway or Gutters
Worn-out shingles start shedding the granules that cover them. When this sand-like substance is washed away by the rain, it may land on your driveway or accumulate in your gutters. It’s important to replace shingles when this happens, as your roof is no longer protecting your home effectively.
4. Water Damage
There are several potential causes of water damage: a storm may have pulled shingles off your roof, the underlayment may need replacing, or the flashing may have worn out. You may notice water stains in the attic or on your ceilings. Left untreated, this can result in severe damage to your home and could even cause mold-related health problems in people with asthma or allergies.
5. Sagging Roof
General deterioration of your roof can cause sagging, especially if it has needed to support a large amount of weight, such as snow or an additional layer of roofing. Be aware that poorly-installed roofs may start to sag prematurely.
6. Higher Utility Bills
You may not notice any physical signs, but your roof could still be damaged in less obvious ways. A clear indication of this is a sudden increase in your heating or air conditioning bills. This implies there is a problem with the insulation or damage to the roof that is causing an air leak. Alternatively, there could be a problem with the attic ventilation. You’ll need to ask a professional to diagnose the problem.
If you are experiencing any of the above signs, the next step is to search for Edmonton roofing companies. A top choice is Weatherproof Roofing. We can manage all kinds of roof repairs — from big to small. Contact us to receive a free estimate.