Signs You Need Roof Repair or Replacement

If you are like the average homeowner, chances are you spend little time on the top layer of your home. This is why many roofs are not replaced or repaired until they start leaking or losing shingles. These are some signs you can look for that will point out whether or not you need roof repair or replacement.

Missing Shingles

One of the most obvious problems that shows you need the attention of a roofer is missing shingles. Shingles can fall off due to age, or they can fall off after a strong storm. Often, if the cause is weather, you will be able to turn in the damages to your insurance company, who will then cover part of the repair. If the damage is due to the age of your roofing, then this is not going to be a possibility.

Algae

Roofs in humid or moist climates can grow algae. This does not affect the materials, necessarily, or the structure of the roofs, but it can affect the look. You may wish to have some roof repair to keep yours looking fresh and attractive. Algae are in the air and get deposited on your roof naturally. If the conditions are warm and moist enough, it will grow, creating dark patches of discoloration.

Damaged Flashing

The flashing is the metal on roofing around the chimney or other structures. If flashing is damaged it will appear broken or bent. This can allow the elements into your home, which you want to avoid. Damaged flashing can occur because of aging, settling of the foundation of the property, denting by improper installation, or drying and cracking of old roofing materials. Regardless, this does need to be fixed.

Spots on Your Ceiling

Water spots on your ceiling are a huge indicator that you need roof repair. This means that there is a leak somewhere in your roofing. While you may be able to take temporary measures to fix the problem, if you can find it, most of these measures do not provide a long-term solution. If your leak has gotten to the point of putting water on your ceiling, then you need to call the roofers.

Buckling Shingles

Shingles should not buckle. If they do, then it indicates that you have wrinkled underlayment, improperly applied felt, or movement in your roof deck. All of these problems require attention. Buckling shingles can quickly turn into leaks if the problem is not addressed.

Rotting

A final indication that you need roof repair is rotting. If your shingles are rotting, then you need new ones. This is common with organic based shingles, like those made from wood. Moisture can be absorbed, and this can lead to rot. You may want to consider replacement with a non-organic type of shingle, because the environment leading to the rotting is not likely to change.