Few things are more important for protecting your home than the roof. If your roof fails, not only does that mean you'll have to install a new one, but your entire home's safety is at risk also. As a homeowner, it helps if you can educate yourself so that you can spot issues with your roof as they occur and get them fixed as quickly as possible. Doing so will save a lot of money (not to mention headaches), so here are four common roof problems and how to identify them.
1. A Weathered Roof
Your roof's not going to last forever (though it'd be nice if it did). If you have an asphalt shingle roof, you can expect as many as 30 years of life, but after 10 to 15 years, you might notice it start to break down. If it's old enough -- and you get hit with a major storm -- the roof can start to break down much faster than you expected. It's a good idea to periodically examine your roof, especially after a storm, and look for damaged or missing tiles. While you're at it, check your gutters. If you see a lot of asphalt granules in your gutters, that means your shingles are starting to fail, and you might need to repair or replace your roof.
2. A Sagging Roof
If your roof is starting to sag, then it's already in trouble. While inspecting your roof, look for signs of sagging and make an effort to identify any places where water is gathering. You might not notice a sag, but puddles of water are a sure indication that sagging is occurring. It's also a good idea to visit your attic on a sunny day. See if you notice any sagging from under the roof and also if there is any sunlight entering the attic. If there is, then your roof is prone to linking and further damage.
3. Damaged Flashing
Flashing is intended to provide a seal between your roof and the roof elements that are protruding from it, such as chimneys, vents, and skylights. If they're not secure, moisture can seep underneath the flashing and into the roof, causing significant damage. Inspect your flashing to make sure it's securely fastened to the roof. If spotted quickly enough, the flashing can be repaired or replaced before the roof is compromised.
4. Mildew
If moss or mildew has the chance to take hold onto your roof, it gives moisture a place to gather and penetrate. Eventually, that section of the roof will decay, and the leak will enter your home, causing extensive damage to the ceiling and walls. If you see any patches of black or green moss or mildew forming on your roof, spray it down with a garden hose. Don't use a pressure cleaner as that will damage your roof tiles.
If you need extensive repairs, the important thing is to reach out to a professional for help. The sooner you do so, the more money you'll save.
