Watch for the Signs of a Failing Roof

Your roof is one of the most important components of your home. A problem with the roof can allow water to get inside, which can lead to damage and mold growth. A potential roofing problem is not something to ignore, and you always should be on the lookout for one. Here are some telltale signs that your roofing system may be in need of repair or replacement.

There are some potential roofing problems you can detect just by taking a close look at the outside of your home. A typical asphalt shingled roof can last anywhere from about 15-20 years if you maintain it properly, and many will last longer than that. But when they do start to reach the end of their lives, there are some signs. If you see shingles that are curling up or breaking off, it’s a good sign that your roof is failing. Shingles also start to degrade once they have reached the end of their life, so if you you see fine granules of shingle material, called shingle dust or shingle sand, in your gutters and downspouts or on the ground around the foundation of your home, it is time to call in a roofer to get things checked out.

Another sign that you may need roof repair or replacement is any kind of water infiltration into your home on the upper floors or the attic. An obvious sign is water spots or discoloration on ceilings or walls on your upper floors. However, water that seeps in through your roofing does not always make itself that obvious. Other signs include standing water or dampness in your attic or wet insulation. These are serious signs that you have a roofing leak, and they are not something that you should ignore. If you find evidence of water infiltration, you should call a roofing contractor right away to get your roof examined.

Homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from 1% to 4% of their home’s value on maintenance and repair each year, and that amount tends to grow as the home ages. At some point, those maintenance and repair costs are likely to include your roof, and there isn’t much you can do about it. It’s just a fact of life you have to live with. However, by being vigilant, you can catch problems early, which will likely reduce the amount you have to spend on repair.