Photo by João Jesus

How Can I Recognize When My Roof System Has Problems?

As a homeowner, you may be wondering when you need to call a roofer. If you notice any of these signs, you need to call a roofer right away:

Stains On The Ceiling And Walls

Flashing is a roofing component usually made out of galvanized steel or aluminum that keeps water out and prevents leaks on a roof. When roofers use low-quality metals or don’t install flashing properly, water can get into your home. If you notice orange or brown spots or blooms on your ceiling and walls, then those are signs that water is seeping in through a hole in your roof and sending moisture deep into your home.

If you noticed leaks after heavy snowfall or rainstorms, peeling or blistering paint, or a musty smell in your attic or certain rooms, these signs, along with your ceiling and wall stains, are a clear indication that there is a leak.

Photo by Myburgh Roux

Shingles Are Discolored, Cracked, or Curling

Age and constant exposure to extreme weather conditions can cause shingles to decay over time. When you need to call a roofer, though, is when you notice that they are beginning to crack, curl, buckle, change colors, or if you notice that any shingles are missing. The good news is that depending on the condition of the rest of your roof; you may only need to replace a few shingles rather than the whole roof. A professional roofer with years of experience can tell you whether or not you need a full replacement or just a repair.

You Can See Rays Of Light Through Your Ceiling

If you notice rays of light or can see outside from the corners or boards in your attic, you should call a roofer right away. Seeing sunlight through your roof or noticing that the roof has lifted away from the walls in corners of rooms are signs of a weakening roof system that needs to be repaired or replaced immediately.

Photo by Miguel Á. Padriñán

Loose Granules

If you find mineral deposits in your gutters or downspouts, or clusters of granules collecting in your driveway, then call a roofer to analyze your roof. A few granules a year is nothing to be alarmed about, and some manufacturers add extras because they know that some granule loss is to be expected. But if you notice a collection of granules after a hail storm or along with any of the signs mentioned above, then you should speak to a roofer right away.

Conduct A Visual Inspection

Go outside after heavy snow or rain and check out your flashing, roof vents, exhaust caps, and the rest of your roof. Do you see loose seams? Damaged or deteriorated flashing? Make a note of what you observe.

Then go back inside to your attic or crawlspace and conduct another visual inspection. If you notice signs of nails or screws coming loose, wood rot or deterioration, or peeling wallpaper, then these are signs that moisture is getting inside and that your roof system has a problem. According to Universal Roofing – Residential Roofing, who has been in the roofing business for over three decades in Indianapolis, if you pay attention, you will notice that your roof tells you when it’s in need of repairs or replacement.

Gail P
I am a beachy type of person, living in Newport Beach, and oftentimes I’ll go for a swim with my daughter. When I’m bored, I’ll help make package boxes for my little girl’s sticker company on Etsy.