Can You Tell If Your Roof Is Damaged?

A new roof is something that most people take for granted — until problems appear. It’s easy to forget how much your roof does for your home. It keeps moisture out and protects the underlying structure from mold damage. Preventing roof leaks is important for your entire house. How can you tell if you need roof repairs or a new roof?

Missing Shingles

It’s a good idea to take a casual look at your roof from time to time. A shingle roof is only as good as its weakest link, and just a couple of cracked or missing shingles are enough to let moisture inside your house. If you see any signs of damage, call a roofing pro right away.

Roof Leaks

This is one of the main signs of roof damage, and it’s also the one you don’t want to see in your home. By the time you see a wet ceiling, bubbling paint, brown spots or mold growing in your attic, moisture has already gotten inside the house. Call a roofing professional ASAP to install a new roof.

Dips in Roof

Another serious sign of roof damage are dips in the roof. When part of the roof looks sunken or uneven, it means the underlying roof structure has been weakened. This happens when the wood starts to rot, either because of leaks or pests. When dips appear, water can’t drain properly, so leaks get even worse.

Tips for Avoiding Problems

It’s a good idea to schedule a yearly roof inspection. Have a roofing company check your roof in the spring. This is especially important after severe weather such as hailstorms, tornadoes or high winds.

Next Steps

If roof damage is minor, it may pay to replace shingles or perform minor repairs. When leaks are serious or the damage is located in several parts of the roof, installing a new roof is generally your best option. Roofing professionals can offer trustworthy recommendations that give you the best results.