Six in ten people in the US are homeowners. If you are a homeowner, you’ll know that there are many benefits to owning your own property. But with the benefits also comes a lot of responsibility for looking after your home, including taking care of the roof. If you want your home to be safe and last for a long time, taking care of your flat roof is an important responsibility.
According to Coast Pro Wash services, regular cleaning of your roof is imperative to prolonging its life! Regular cleaning will help keep algae, moss, and bacteria from eating away at your roof. A roof that is well-maintained will increase the real estate value of your property, boost your peace of mind and make sure that your home is safe. And looking for visible signs of damage is one of the most important ways to keep on top of looking after your roof and keeping it in good condition.
While all roofs are going to suffer some damage from time to time due to the elements and general deterioration, the key here is to identify damage as soon as possible so that you can repair it before it gets too bad. The cost of repairing your roof is much less compared to replacing it. Here are some of the warning signs that your roofing will need to be repaired as soon as possible.
Leaks
Even if your roof looks fine from the outside, some water stains on your ceiling could be an indication that something is wrong. Roof leaks are one of the most common causes of paint cracking and blistering inside or outside of the home, and you might notice that some of the exterior paint is stained or chipped. When the underlayment of the roof is compromised or damaged, moisture will be let in. This will usually lead to stains on the ceiling or the exterior walls of your home. You might notice water trails running down the walls when it is flowing through the roof underlayment. If you have noticed any signs of a leaking roof, it’s important to inspect the entry point of the water as soon as possible and repair your roof leaks. Roofing companies in Detroit Michigan such as Rock Solid Exteriors can help if you are unable to locate the point where the water is getting in.
Buckling or Cracked Shingles
Shingles do not last forever and, if they are deteriorating, you might notice that they have bucked, cracked or curled. Damaged shingles can not only cause problems with the structure of your roof but also affect your home’s curb appeal. Some parts of the roof are likely to look more textured than others when there is single damage, and over time, it can lead to more serious roof issues such as leaks. Damage to the shingles can often be easily noticed when looking up at your roof from the ground; however, you will usually need to get a professional like the ones from Roof Inspection Deer Park TX to inspect your roof and determine whether the damage is repairable or if a roof replacement is needed.
Missing Shingles
Since shingles are subject to extreme temperatures throughout the year, after a certain amount of time they will show signs of wear and tear, which can commonly include shingles that are missing. If you have noticed bald spots on your roof, this will be due to shingles coming loose and being blown away by the wind. Missing shingles are an issue that will need to be repaired as soon as possible since they are a very common cause of leaks in the roof which can cause serious damage to your roof and the rest of your home if left unchecked. This may also be an indicator that you need to replace your roof. You may contact companies like Beemer KangaRoof for your roof replacement needs you have in Travelers Rest, SC.
Roof Sagging
There are various different reasons behind why a roof might be sagging. A weak, deteriorating roof may sag under the weight of the shingles and simply due to gravity. In some cases, a roof might sag if it has not been correctly installed. During the winter, snow can cause a roof to sag due to the excess weight, and an older, weaker roof might even collapse under the weight of the snow. Sagging in the roof is a problem that should never be ignored, and you should always act immediately if you notice this. Contact a contractor like Bondoc Roofing to check it ASAP.
Dark Patches
Even if your roof looks to be structurally fine, there could be a problem if you have noticed that some areas of your roof appear to be a lot darker compared to others. Dark patches on the roof are a sign of moss growth due to water retention. Moss will grow with any continual water supply and very few nutrients. It might not always be visible but, if you notice any moss on your roof, it could be a sign of a much more serious issue than it first appears. Moss on your roof will contribute to shingle damage.
Gravel in the Gutters
Gutter systems on the roof are an important part of directing water away from your home and reducing the risk of leaks. Gutters carry any excess water from the building structure, but checking your gutters can also help you understand more about the condition of your roof. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your gutters can give you a clearer indication regarding the condition of the roof. A lot of gravel or sand in your gutters is a cause for concern as this can be a sign of shingles that are weathered and deteriorating. If you’ve noticed a lot of excess gravel in your gutters when cleaning them, it’s worth inspecting your roof shingles. And if you are planning to replace your gutters, you might also want to consider having a new copper gutter installation.
Recent Bad Weather
If you live in an area that gets a lot of storms and heavy rain, your roof will be in a constant battle with the weather. Thunderstorms and fluctuations in the weather can be the two biggest causes of damage to your roof. A storm can seriously impact the structural integrity of your roof, and in some cases might even cause serious damage that will require a roof replacement. If a recent storm has passed in your area, it’s a good idea to get your roof inspected to spot any early signs of damage that need to be repaired.
As a homeowner, looking after your roof and hiring professional roofing contractors who can provide expert roofing services are two of the most important factors when it comes to keeping your home comfortable and safe.