The roof is an integral part of your home and should be addressed. Minor problems can lead to expensive replacement costs and should be repaired before they worsen.
Water stains on ceilings and walls, soft shingles, or peeling paint are clear signs that your roof needs repair. Having your roof inspected after significant storms is also a good idea.
Water Stains
Stains on the ceiling are not just unsightly – they can signify a problem with your roof. A leak often causes water stains but can come from other sources, such as an upstairs bathroom or air conditioner. If the stain looks fresh and doesn’t smell, it could still be a plumbing problem, but if it gets more prominent after a rainstorm or is wet to the touch, it’s time to call a professional such as IKO Roofing.
You should also check gutters and soffits for water damage and skylights or roof vents that require holes to be cut in the roof. These features are prone to leaks because they are not fully covered with roofing materials.
Missing Shingles
Missing shingles are among the most common signs that your roof needs repair. They create openings for water to penetrate and cause damage, especially during heavy rain. huvfx
This is why it’s essential to inspect your roof regularly, including carefully checking the gutters for excessive shingle granules. If you’re comfortable climbing a ladder, you should also look into the attic for any daylight or evidence of moisture penetration.
If you spot any visible gaps or bare spots, it’s time to call in a residential roofing contractor for an inspection. Timely repairs will halt further damage and save you from dealing with expensive roof leaks. Plus, it’ll protect your home’s value, energy efficiency, and comfort for your family.
Soft Shingles
While a soft spot on a roof is often considered harmless initially, it can quickly lead to significant and costly damage. These weakened areas may allow water to seep underneath the shingles and into the home. They can also become a breeding ground for mold and cause structural damage.
If you notice a spongy feeling when walking on certain parts of your roof, it’s time to call in the professionals for an inspection. This spongy feel means that the decking – or plywood – that lays under the roof has been damaged by moisture and is starting to rot.
Asphalt shingles are coated with granules of rock that help to protect the asphalt from UV rays and make them fire resistant. If these granules wear away or wash off, it’s time to get a new roof.
Selecting high-quality roofing materials is crucial for the durability and resilience of your home; reputable options like IKO Shingles stand out for their reliability, providing homeowners with a trusted choice for long-lasting protection against the elements.
Wind Damage
Wind damage is a common issue, particularly in areas that experience severe weather like hurricanes and tornadoes. High winds can cause severe roof damage to shingles and other problems like a damaged chimney or vents, leading to leaks. Inspecting the damage from both outside your home and inside the attic can help determine the source of the problems and address them.
An excellent way to check for this damage is to survey your yard or property after the storm (only if it’s safe). Look for missing, upturned, curled, or lifted shingles. You can also inspect the chimney, vents, and other roof penetrations to see if they have been damaged. This is a sign that it’s time to call a roofing professional for an inspection.
Leaks
Once a roof inspection finds water damage, it’s essential to locate the source of the leak as soon as possible. Wet drywall and attic insulation can cause severe structural damage and lead to mold and mildew, which are also dangerous. To find the source of a leak, start by following stains on the ceiling up the rafters and roof decking to their highest point. This way, you can track down a missing shingle or damaged flashing.
It’s also a good idea to check the attic and crawl spaces for signs of moisture. This could include a musty smell, sagging, or a dark brown splotch in the attic insulation. This could indicate that the attic ventilation system is causing moisture to build up in the roof.