Homeowners know that a leaky ceiling or a visible hole in the roof should receive proper care immediately, but these aren’t the only signs of a roof in need. Extreme temperatures and severe weather like hail, rain, and wind can cause damage to your roof without you realizing it.
The following are some strong—and sometimes hard-to-detect—signs that your roof may need repair.
Old age
While most roofs last between 20–25 years, if certain sections were previously replaced, aren’t receiving adequate ventilation, or only have a single layer of shingles, the lifespan of the roof can decrease.
A good rule of thumb: if your roof is older than 20 years and built on top of multiple layers, you may want to invest in a new roof sooner rather than later—or at the very least, keep a close eye on its condition over the next few years.
Missing shingles in roof valleys
As one of the most important parts of the roof, if your roof valley is missing shingles, then it’s time for some repair.
Rain and snow flow down through these valleys and into gutters. If there are missing shingles in these areas, the extra pressure from the elements can damage your roof’s interior. In general, losing your roof shingles can leave you vulnerable to ceiling leaks.
Failing a spot check
Getting a roof inspection is a good idea, especially if you’re new to home repair.
The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends getting your roof inspected after any severe weather hits, in addition to doing a biannual spot check for regular maintenance. In addition to the exterior spot check, don’t forget to get out your ladder for an interior assessment in the attic!
Generally, the NRCA advises looking for the following:
– Curled shingles that are starting to deteriorate
– Bald areas on your roof
– Loose materials around gutters, pipes, and chimneys
– Soft patches on the roof interior that indicate wood rot
– Signs of water damage and reduced gutter performance
If you see these signs, a professional inspection should be done as soon as possible. Roof damage can cause other, larger issues down the line if not rectified in a timely manner.
