When it comes to curb appeal and repelling the elements, your home’s roof is its crowning glory. However, while the materials and layers of a roofing system are manufactured and constructed for aesthetics, durability, and longevity, they are still susceptible to wear, tear, and damage whether older or brand new.
Perhaps the toughest and most relentless adversary your roof faces is water. Once water finds a way to penetrate the roofing system, costly damage begins and will continue until the problem is repaired or the roof must be replaced. To help keep your roof in the best shape possible, read on to learn about clues and signs your roof is under attack by water.
WATER STAINS AND LEAKS
One of the most troublesome symptoms of water damage to your roof is the presence of water stains or actual water leaks. Commonly affected areas for stains include your ceilings, walls, vents, and chimneys. The stains will typically appear as brown or rust-colored spots. Water stains and leaks are serious issues that indicate your roof has sustained substantial water damage, perhaps, for an extended period of time.
Water leaks are signs you’re dealing with more substantial roof damage of larger roof leaks, while water stains point to smaller and slower leaks. However, smaller roof leaks are often more difficult to pinpoint and could originate many feet away from where you see water stains.
MISSING OR DAMAGED SHINGLES
Your roofing system is constructed of many layers. The shingles are the roof’s primary armor against water. A weak shingle is like a weak link in a chain. If you notice missing or damaged shingles, it’s a sign for the potential of water damage to the underlying roof layers and possibly your attic and home. Damaged or missing shingles should be repaired right away or the roof will be exposed to more water damage and weaken.
Further, shingles that are curling, cupping, cracked, or bent are signs you need a roof inspection and repairs ASAP. It’s possible that the repair could simply involve replacing the damaged or missing shingles without any major signs of water damage. It depends on how long the problem has persisted.
GRANULES IN GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS
Asphalt shingles are covered by a layer of granules. These granules help protect the shingle against damaging UV rays from the sun. As your roof ages, the granules begin to fall off and wash down the gutters with rainfall or snow melt. Without the protection of granules, the shingles begin to bake and quickly wear out. This leaves the shingles more vulnerable to water penetration as well. So, if you notice granules in your downspouts, it’s a sure clue to call your trusted roofing contractor!
SOFTWOOD DECKING
Water damage to the decking beneath the shingles will make your roof feel spongy with soft spots when walked on. However, never climb up on your roof. It’s too dangerous to risk. Leave the roofing inspection to the roofing pros. You may spot water-damaged decking from the ground by areas of the roof that hold water longer.
Soft decking is indicative of long-standing water damage. It may be possible to repair damaged sections, or you may need a roof replacement. Talk to a trusted roofing contractor about your best options.
If you have noticed any of these clues that your roof has sustained water damage, call us at Younger Exteriors right away. We stand behind all of our roofing and home exterior services with a 10-YEAR CRAFTSMANSHIP GUARANTEE! Call on us today 612-360-0320!
