29 Oct How to Spot the Early Signs of Water Damage in Your Roof

Many homeowners don’t realize just how devastating water damage can be. When this type of damage goes undiagnosed, it often results in a wide variety of secondary issues including mold, mildew, cracks in the foundation, and pest infestations. Here is a closer look at a few early warning signs that your roof might be in need of repairs.

Curled or Cracked Shingles

Asphalt and composite shingles usually last for 15 or 20 years, but you should inspect your roof for any signs of damage at least once a month. After a few heavy storms, the shingles might become bent, curled, or cracked. Luckily, replacing old shingles is a quick and easy project as long as the underlayment hasn’t warped, fractured, or worse. A contractor will also need to check the inside of your attic to ensure that the damage hasn’t spread.

Sagging Ceiling

If water has gotten into the attic, then your ceiling might look like it is sagging or warping. Sagging usually occurs when moisture has damaged some of the joists and trusses inside an attic. When that takes place, you must call a contractor for immediate repairs. Those beams are vital to the structural integrity of your home, and your ceiling could collapse if the damaged wood grows weaker. A sagging ceiling can also be caused by termites, dry rot, and earthquakes.

Water Spots

Water spots on your ceiling are another warning sign that you must never ignore. Those spots often occur when pinhole leaks in a roof allow a few drops of water in, and the holes must be sealed to prevent further damage. After you repair the damaged area, you will need to have a contractor inspect your entire home for mold, mildew, and other issues. You could have huge patches of mold in your attic or ducts if the pinholes have been there for quite some time.

Granules in Your Rain Gutters

It is always a good idea to clean out your home’s rain gutters at least once every few weeks. While you are cleaning them out, you need to look for any granules swept off the roof into the gutters. A few granules are sure to come off after every rainstorm, but those piles should be quite small. As a roof gets older, large collections of granules might clog your rain gutters and downspouts. Those buildups are clear signs that your shingles are nearing the end of their lifespan and you need to replace them.

Water damage is a significant issue that homeowners should never overlook. If you think that your roof might be damaged, then you need to immediately contact a roofing contractor to explore your options.

Featured image source: RSI Roofing Contractors