Having a properly functioning roof is essential for your home. However, if your roof is not regularly inspected for repair, it can cause safety hazards to household members.
Even a perfectly functioning roof can deteriorate with age and harsh weather conditions, as it will need to be repaired or replaced.
Several signs of roof damage can be spotted from the exterior of your home or up close by a roof inspector.
In this blog, we’ll review the ten most common roof damage signs so you can take action immediately.
10 Signs of Roofing Damage
1. Granule loss
An indication that your roof may be damaged and needs a replacement is the presence of an excessive amount of granules in your gutters or around the drains.
Shingle granule loss can expose the underlying asphalt and go through the roof’s barrier of protection. This may cause the shingles to age more quickly, making them more susceptible to UV rays, and have less ability to shed water.
2. Water stains or leaks
The presence of water stains on walls or ceilings indicates that there may be a roof leak. These stains may take the form of paint bubbles or even discolored areas.
To prevent further damage, mold growth, and impaired structural integrity, it is crucial to address these indicators right away. If left unattended, they can get worse over time. To locate the leak’s source and stop further water leakage, it is advised to seek professional assistance.
3. Missing shingles
A roof with missing shingles left open to the weather can allow water to seep in and harm the underlying materials. Missing shingles require prompt repair, whether resulting from extreme weather, aging, or poor installation.
Ignoring this problem could result in additional shingle loss, water intrusion, and potential structural damage. The integrity of your roof will be preserved if the missing shingles are quickly replaced.
4. Cracks or blistering
The surface of the roof may crack or blister due to several things, such as improper installation, aged materials, or severe weather. These problems make the roof less capable of handling moisture, leading to leaks and more damage.
Have a professional roofer evaluate the degree of the damage and suggest suitable repairs or replacements if you notice any cracks or blistering on your roof.
5. Clogged gutters
Clogged gutters can result in water backup, which can overflow and seep into the fascia boards and underlayment of the roof.
This might cause rot, water damage, or even foundation issues. Therefore, regular gutter cleaning and maintenance is crucial to avoid clogging and effective water drainage from your home’s roof and foundation.
6. Uneven roof deck
An uneven or sagging roof deck could indicate deeper structural problems, such as harmed roof trusses or support beams.
This issue could develop due to water damage, excess moisture build-up, or structural wear and tear over time. Treating this issue as soon as possible is crucial to prevent further damage and potential safety risks.
7. Walls or ceiling damage
A persistent roof leak may show up as damage to interior walls or ceilings, like peeling paint, mold growth, or stains. The water from the leak may seep into the walls or follow the ceiling, resulting in obvious damage. Prevent additional roof damage and potential health risks brought on by mold growth by immediately calling a professional for a repair.
8. Moss growth
Moss development on the roof’s surface can be due to excessive moisture being held in. Although moss alone may not cause damage to the roof specifically, it can trap moisture against the surface, which over time, causes the roofing components to deteriorate. To maintain the integrity and longevity of the roof, it is advisable to get rid of the moss and deal with the moisture problem from its source.
9. Deteriorated flashing
Flashing is used to protect certain areas of the roof that are more susceptible to damage, such as chimneys, skylights, and vents. Water can penetrate the roof if flashing becomes damaged, allowing the roof to deteriorate. Water damage and leaks can be prevented by promptly inspecting and repairing deteriorated flashing when you catch it.
10. Other interior damage
There may be further indications of roof damage in your home’s interior, in addition to water stains and mold growth. These can be drooping ceilings, flaking paint or wallpaper, or structural changes like wall fractures.
What are the top Causes of Roof Damage?
- Harsh weather conditions: Hail, rainfall, wind, snow, and cold temperatures can damage a roof over time. This can crack shingles, making them susceptible to damaging the interior of your home.
- Age and wear: Roofs become more susceptible to problems such as deterioration and leaks as they age. Maintaining and inspecting the roof regularly is essential to preventing wear and tear.
- Poor installation or workmanship: Long-term issues might arise from improper installation methods or poor workmanship during roof installation or maintenance.
- Lack of upkeep: Ignoring regular roof care, such as cleaning gutters and inspection of damage, can cause small problems to become more serious.
- Inadequate roof ventilation: A roof lacking ventilation can contribute to a buildup of heat and moisture, which can hasten the deterioration of the roof.
Best Time to Call Roofing Professional in Etobicoke
Regular roof maintenance is crucial to extend the lifespan of your roof. Aging and weather conditions outside one’s control can contribute to the natural deterioration of your roof over time.
If you spot any of the above signs, it’s a good time to call a professional. Roofing Etobicoke companies like Above it All Roofing are expert Etobicoke roofers to meet all your roofing needs.
With over 25 years of experience and the best materials in the industry, your roof will look brand new no matter what the season brings. Contact us today to get a free roof damage inspection in Etobicoke and nearby areas.
