Spotting Signs You Need a Roof Repair (Before It’s Too Late!)
Often overlooked but important, your roof protects your home from the elements. Whether it’s rain, wind, a hurricane, or the blazing Florida sun, your roof is a critical component of your home. It’s often disregarded and neglected until a problem arises and you’re in panic mode. However, regular checks of your roof allow you to spot issues before they become costly and time-intensive repairs. So, what are these signs? Here are eight warning signs that indicate you may need a roof repair before it’s too late.
Water Intrusion AKA Leaks
One of the most obvious signs is water damage or leaks coming from your roof or ceiling. Even a small leak can result in severe damage over time, leading to mold or instability in your roofing. Check for water stains on ceilings and walls and keep an ear out for dripping noises, all of which indicate a repair is needed by a professional.
Missing or Lifted Shingles
Visually inspect your roof regularly to check for missing or lifted shingles. Damaged shingles exposes your roof and makes it vulnerable to water intrusion. Nails holding down the shingles may be loose and the seal holding the shingles together may be broken. Additionally, missing shingles can indicate other roofing issues such as improper installation or that your roof may be towards the end of its lifespan.
Creased Shingles
Whether caused by storm damage, improper installation, or age, creased shingles can be easy to spot and fix. A creased shingle will appear bent or floppy and other than being unsightly, they make your home more susceptible to sun damage as well as water leaks, rot, and mold.
Sagging Roofing System
If you look at your roof and notice sagging, this is a telltale sign of structural damage to the underlying decking. Rotting wood deck underneath the shingles indicates inadequate support or deteriorating roofing materials. Contact a professional roofing contractor for a complete and thorough inspection.
Blistering
Roof blistering occurs when gas, air, or moisture gets trapped in the asphalt. When the gas migrates to the shingle’s surface, the top will erode and cause blistering. Sometimes, blistering is a cosmetic problem, but excessive roof blistering will expose your roof to damage. When blistering becomes severe, the roof will need to be replaced, so noticing the first signs of blistering is important to increase the lifespan of your roof.
Granulation Loss
Asphalt shingles have UV protectant granules that protect the roof from the harsh sun. They also provide fire resistance in the event of a house fire. These granules shed over time as a result of age or storms, but if you notice an excessive amount of granules in your gutters, it may indicate that your roof needs repair or replacement. As granules help protect your roof and home, it is important to reach out to a professional for advice sooner rather than later.
Location of Your Home
Geographic location plays a role into the lifespan of your roof. If you live in Florida, you know that our weather conditions are more intense than other states. The blistering sun, high humidity, and major hurricanes impact roofs more so than other areas of the country. This is why we have some of the most stringent building codes. Newer homes have the most up-to-date building codes, but older homes may not have these upgrades, so it is important to have an inspection completed prior to hurricane season.
Age of the Roof
As with everything in life, age plays a factor. The average lifespan of a roof is 15-30 years, depending on the type of roof shingles and other materials used, weather exposure, damage from trees, storms, or other weather events. If you know your roof is reaching the end of its lifespan, it may be time for a repair or replacement.
Staying proactive about your roof maintenance and spotting the first signs of damage can save you from expensive repairs and protect your home for years to come. Addressing concerns when they are minor can help increase the lifespan of your roof.
If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at NEXGEN Restoration & Roofing. We are qualified professionals who can assess any roofing situation and recommend any repairs or replacements that may be needed. It is our priority to make the roofing process as stress free as possible. Contact us today!
