When it starts to rain inside, it’s pretty obvious that you need roof repair. However, waiting until this happens is far from ideal. Watch out for these five signs of roof distress so you can stop problems in their tracks before they become a major issue.
1. Shingle Buckling or Curling
Buckled shingles are easy to detect. They present as vertical waves running up the slope of your roof. This is most commonly caused by roof age, poor installation, or wet underlayment. Curling shingles are often a result of heat damage or an aging roof.
When your shingles start to buckle or curl, they can easily tear off or break. They are also susceptible to ice and wind damage. Fixing this issue as soon as you notice it may mean the difference between a small roof repair and a full roof replacement.
2. Shingle Granules in Your Gutters
Regularly cleaning out your gutters is a critical home maintenance task. If you find shingle granules in there, it is a good sign that your roof is reaching the end of its life.
Dark spots on your roof or an inconsistent pattern are also indications that your shingles are losing granules. Shingle roofs typically last 20 to 25 years, so a combination of granules and age is a good reason to have your roof inspected.
3. Sagging Roof
If you notice a sagging roof, you need to act right away. You could have structural damage, like a problem with your attic decking or foundation supports.
The use of poor-quality roofing material or improper installation can also be the culprit. If water penetrates the roof and it’s allowed to rot, sagging can result. A roof holding too much weight from snow or ice may also sag—or even collapse.
4. Daylight Showing Through the Ceiling
If you think you may need a new roof, inspect your attic. If there’s light coming through the ceiling, your roof is probably leaking. You can also look for water stains and check to see if your attic insulation is soggy.
In some cases, a leak in the attic is resolved by simply repairing the flashings. Other times, the problem is faulty underlayment. This usually requires a roof replacement.
5. High Energy Bills
A sudden spike in AC or heating costs is often an indication of air leaking out your roof through the attic. If your insulation gets wet from a roof leak, it doesn’t work as effectively. This further increases the energy needed to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A leaking roof is a problem that isn’t going to get any better on its own. The sooner you address it, the better off you’ll be. The reduced energy expenses will quickly add up, making fast repair well worth the cost.
Do You Need Roof Repair?
If you’ve experienced any of the issues above, you’ll want a professional to check out your roof right away. Delaying can cause further damage, increasing your potential costs.
Looking for an honest roofing company in the Milwaukee area? We’ve got you covered! Contact us today for a free roof evaluation and estimate.
