Signs of Roof Failure
The roof is one of the most critical parts of your house’s structure, and it can be difficult to understand what is going on with your roof at times. It’s important to regularly check your roof, especially after bad weather such as storms or strong winds, which can cause damage.
There are many silent signs of roofing failure, but here are the most common that can help you decide whether you need roof repair services or roof replacement services to protect the integrity of your home.
Missing or Loose Shingles
If your roof has several missing or loose shingles, or if you have had to replace several in the past, you may have a bigger problem. Missing and broken shingles leave your roof vulnerable to rain, snow, and ice. When the water starts to take hold, the roof deck starts to deteriorate, which can loosen nails on other shingles, causing them to become loose. If not corrected early, the problem can continue to spread.
Sagging Roof
Roofs can sag in two ways: at the roof ridge or on the roof deck. The ridge is the point where two shingle surfaces meet at a peak. That ridge should be straight and true. If it’s starting to develop a sag or dip at any point, it’s a sign the structure below is starting to fail. The roof deck is the solid structure to which roofers nail shingles. That deck should be flat and solid. If it starts to sag or dip, it’s a sign the wood below is rotting or that the roof rafters or trusses are starting to fail.
Curling, Cracking, Blistering Shingles
Asphalt shingles arrive from the factory flexible, yet solid. However, time and the elements take their toll. Eventually, shingles start to dry out and deteriorate. This is when you start to see the edges of the shingle curl up. You may see cracking at various points. These are early signs your roof is starting to fail. Blistering happens when humidity levels get too high around the shingle. This most often occurs when moisture builds up in the attic in hot humid conditions. The hot sun above and the moisture below cause the shingle surface to bubble up. It’s a sign of inadequate attic ventilation, a major cause of early roof failure.
Granules In Your Eavestrough/Downspouts
Asphalt shingles have a layer of granules on top to help protect from the sun and the elements. It’s not uncommon for a few granules to fall off immediately after the roof is installed. However, if your roof is more than a few years old, you should only detect the occasional granule in your eavestrough or downspouts. If the number of granules in the gutter is growing, your asphalt roof is starting to fail. The adhesive holding the granules in place is deteriorating. Without that protective layer, the underlayment becomes vulnerable to the elements. It’s time to start saving up for a roof replacement.
If you are seeing any of these above signs or suspect that your roof may be failing, contact us today for a complimentary consultation to discuss your options. With a failing roof, it’s crucial to catch it early on before it can create immense damage to the rest of your home.
