5 Signs of Roof Damage

While there are multiple signs of roof damage, do you know what to look for? During high winds, heavy storms, hail, and extreme humidity, it is easy for roofs to become damaged. Additionally, as roofs age, signs of damage can become more apparent. While many factors can cause roof damage, it is important to know what to look for in order to preserve the structural integrity of your roof to prevent further damage to your home and to receive preventative maintenance on your roof to avoid more costly repairs. As a homeowner, knowing the signs of roof damage is critical for home maintenance as your roof provides safety for the entirety of your home. While a professional roof inspection is recommended to determine whether your roof needs repairs and if so – what kind, there are 5 signs that homeowners can look for in order to spot roof damage.

Signs Your Roof Might Be Damaged:

Missing shingles. From the ground, take a look at your roof. Are there gaps? Are there bare patches? Are there spaces where you can see the subroof? If there are shingles missing from your roof, this is a surefire indicator that your roof has sustained damage. Shingles are one of the most important elements on your roof and provide protection for the layers below. If shingles are missing, your roof is more likely to sustain more long-term and costly damages, and they need to be evaluated and replaced by a professional technician immediately.
Water stains and leaks. Water stains and leaks are one of the most common indicators of roof damage. If you are noticing ceiling leaks within the home as well, it is a sign that roof damage has already occurred and needs to be remedied as fast as possible to prevent molding and further damage. Additionally, water stains on roofs might indicate areas where moisture is being trapped and it is not being wicked away properly by the shingles.
Curled or corroded flashing. While it may be difficult to spot some flashing from the ground, flashing is imperative for keeping your roof free of moisture. Flashing is usually found around skylights, plumbing vents, chimneys, and other penetration points on your roof. Flashing is installed to direct water away from areas that do not have shingling to protect it from the elements.
Gutter problems. Are your gutters blocked? Not working properly to drain? This is an easy check for homeowners that might indicate roof damage. If your gutters are not draining properly, and are filled with a small granular substance, your shingles may be molting their granules which will indicate repairs are necessary. Additionally, gutters are necessary to draw moisture away from your roof and if they are not functioning as they should it can create further roof damage.
Poor ventilation. Proper roof ventilation is critical, and if ventilation is not working properly it can cause unwanted moisture build-up on the roof. If you notice moss, fungi, or any type of dark spot on your roof, that means that it is not being properly ventilated as it is allowing plants to take hold. In order to wick away moisture to ensure no leaking happens, roofs need to be fully ventilated.

What Should You Do If You Notice Any Damage?

If you think your roof is potentially damaged, it is important to seek a consultation with a licensed professional in order to determine what your roof needs. When left unremedied, roof repairs can turn into a costly fix or require a full re-roof. Keeping up with your roof’s maintenance also ensures the rest of your home stays protected from the elements. At Sentry Rooftop, we have 40 years of experience in the north Georgia and Atlanta communities and pride ourselves on quality assured work. We provide free inspections, transparent and up-front repair estimates, and thorough explanations for the work being done on your home so you can rest assured knowing your roof is in good hands. Call (678) 925-4804 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with Sentry Rooftop today.

You can learn more about general home and roof maintenance here, or visit our blog for more information about how to care for your roof and ensure it is tough enough to stand up to Georgia weather.