Top Signs Of Problems With Your Home Roof

Roofs are one of those things that we really don’t think about on a day-to-day basis, even though they are such an integral part of any home or commercial building. Not only do they ensure that your home stays dry, but they keep you and your family safe.  However, there can be problems from time to time, and if prompt action isn’t taken, then the situation can quickly escalate.

In this guide, we’re going to help you prevent more significant issues by helping you identify where there might be problems that need prompt attention. By getting the work done now, you’ll be avoiding bigger issues from developing.

Signs Of Problems With Your Home Roof

Most Frisco roofing companies will provide you with end-to-end roofing services. While it might be tempting to try and sort out the problem yourself, the professionals have the equipment and the head for heights to get the job done quickly and to the highest standards.

1. Leaking gutters

A common problem, especially in older homes, is a leaky gutter system. There are several reasons why they can fail. First of all, old metal gutters, such as those made from aluminum, are susceptible to rusting and pitting over time, while poor installation methods can cause leaks through faulty joints.

2. Downspouts

Most homes have at least one downspout that takes the water from the gutters down the outside of the house and into the main drainage system.  If this is cracked or blocked, the water will overflow and pour down uncontrolled.

3. Missing Or Broken Shingles.

If you notice that any of the shingles are missing or broken, then it’s essential to have a professional come out and look at them. They’ll be able to determine if they need to be replaced and assess the quality of those that surround the problem area.

4. Curled Shingles.

If you notice that the bottom edges of your shingles are starting to curl upwards, this is a sign that the shingles are aging, which can then lead to further damage.

Aging shingles can also crack or split in half, which can cause leaks in your attic and lead to water damage. The best way to prevent this from happening is by having your roof regularly inspected by a professional so that you can catch problems early before they become too severe.

5. Debris In Your Gutters.

While rain gutters are an essential aspect of your home’s roofing system, they are often overlooked until they stop working correctly.

If you notice debris in your gutters, then this needs to be cleaned out as soon as possible. If the drain becomes blocked, it can become damaged through the weight of rainwater that accumulates.

6. Water Stains Inside the Home.

The most obvious place to see roofing problems is on the ceiling of the rooms directly under the roof. If you have water stains and the internal plumbing is leak free, then the chances are roofing problems are causing it. It can take a long time for water to seep through the multiple layers of your roof and into your home, and this is a classic situation where a small problem can slowly become a more significant issue.

7. Missing Nail Heads.

The problem here is that the nails are not then holding the shingle down. When shingles are installed, they’re nailed in place. Over time, nails can pop up, especially if there are only one or two nails per shingle. The nails can also loosen and rise out of the shingle as the weather heats and cools the roof.

The sooner you replace missing nails, the better. This then prevents unsecured shingles from being torn off the roof during high winds.

8. Moss And Mildew On The Roof.

Moss and mildew on the roof are signs of poor ventilation, which can cause structural damage. If the problem persists, your roof will soon start to show signs of wear. One way to prevent moss and mildew from growing on your roof is by installing ridge vents or turbine vents on the top of your home.

9. Flashing Around Vent Pipes And Chimneys.

If the flashing around vent pipes and chimneys is old and rusty, there is a chance that water has started to leak into your attic. Flashing refers to the metal pieces installed at joints in the roof, and they are designed to keep water out of these joints so the underlying materials will not rot or decay. If the flashing is not sitting in place correctly, then water can enter your home causing damage.

10. Light Can Be Seen Through The Roof Decking

If you see the light coming through the roof decking, your roof is in serious trouble. The light means a hole in the surface, and water seeps into your attic. You may also notice water streaks running down the walls inside your home, which indicates that water is reaching the drywall.

In some cases, these holes can be patched with a special sealant. However, if the problem is widespread and not just caused by one or two missing shingles, it may be time to call a professional for an entirely new roof.

Takeaway

If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, you should contact an experienced roofer at the earliest opportunity. By detecting these problems early on, you can prevent more severe issues from cropping up in the future!