A roof in need of some type of attention will show multiple warning signs that should never be ignored. We’ve put together a list of common warning signs to look for that could save you a lot of money in the future.
PROBLEM: There are black stains on the Roof
WHAT IS YOUR ROOF TRYING TO TELL YOU? There is algae growing on the shingles. Even though this looks pretty ugly, it won’t harm the roof. It’s really just an aesthetic problem. We wouldn’t recommend cleaning with a power washer as that could damage the roof. Try placing zinc strips near the ridge of the roof that release a fungicide when it rains that might kill the algae.
PROBLEM: The roof is missing shingles
WHAT IS YOUR ROOF TRYING TO TELL YOU? You either have an animal on your roof causing damage or the sealant strip under the shingles may have been damaged. An animal running around on the roof could be responsible for loose or damaged shingles so make sure tree branches that can provide a pathway for animals, are trimmed back. Shingles also have a sealant on their underside that helps hold them in place. If the shingles become old and brittle, the sealant can fail and the shingles can come loose. Make sure you replace the missing shingles because missing shingles can allow water to leak into the house.
PROBLEM: The shingles are cupping
WHAT IS YOUR ROOF TRYING TO TELL YOU? The attic may not be properly vented which may cause you to have to re-roof. When shingles get old the ends sometimes start to cup or rise up on the ends. An attic that’s not well ventilated can only make this problem worse. If the attic gets too hot, it can heat up the roof, which can heat up the underside of the shingles. This can cause the shingles to age faster and start to cup. Cupping shingles can allow rain to work is way under the shingles and eventually leak into the house.
PROBLEM: Cracking shingles
WHAT IS YOUR ROOF TRYING TO TELL YOU? The granules have probably worn off allowing the shingles to become brittle and cracked. Another symptom of cracking shingles is being exposed to direct sunlight because the granules have washed away. This means the shingles are approaching he end of their life. If you don’t think your shingles have reached the end of their lifespan, check your roofing warranty.
PROBLEM: Your gutters are filled with granules and wash out the downspouts
WHAT IS YOUR ROOF TRYING TO TELL YOU? The shingles are deteriorating and may be reaching the end of their life. Loose granules are not necessarily a cause for concern as some do come off and collect in the gutters. However, if you suddenly notice a lot of the granules flowing out of the downspouts when it rains, you may want to examine the shingles to see if they look “exposed”. The granules protect against the sun’s UV rays, so once they are gone they can become brittle.
PROBLEM: Water spots on exterior walls
WHAT IS YOUR ROOF TRYING TO TELL YOU? The flashing where the roof meets the wall could be loose, rusted or damaged in some way. If the spots get worse after a rain, the problem is most likely the flashing. There is one other possibility for the water spots. It could be where two different siding materials butt together and leave gaps or simply leaky windows.
PROBLEM: Water spots on your ceiling
WHAT IS YOUR ROOF TRYING TO TELL YOU? The roof has a leak, which might not be easy to find. A leak can be tricky to find because water doesn’t always drip straight down. It can move along roof panels in the attic before dripping onto the insulation and leaving the yellow water spot on the ceiling. So that means the leak can be far from the actual ceiling damage. Keep in mind that water spots don’t always mean the roof is leaking. It could be leaky windows, condensation, or plumbing. It the spots only appear or grow after it rains, then the roof is probably the cause.
PROBLEM: Soft or spongy wood decking
WHAT IS YOUR ROOF TRYING TO TELL YOU? There is long-term water damage on your roof. If you are walking on your roof and you notice soft or spongy spots, it might be time to call a roofing contractor. If you can’t get on the roof, check in the attic for water spots on the wood decking. If you don’t address the problem the decking will rot and cause leaks.
SO…..Pay attention to your roof and what it is trying to tell you. If you notice any of these warning signs discussed above it may be time to contact Premo Roofing. We would be glad to inspect your roof and let you know what repairs you may need to make now that could save you a lot of time and money in the future.
