First Signs of Roof Damage & What To Look For

Your roof is constantly bombarded by wind, rain, snow, and hail. So it’s no surprise that your roof will start to show wear and tear. Even the best, newest roofs can sustain roof damage from severe storms— leaving you to pick up the pieces, literally.

1) Missing or Damaged Shingles

The most common sign of roof damage is missing or damaged shingles. Shingles can come loose for various reasons— from severe weather to old age and everything in between. But if you spot any missing or damaged shingles, it’s important to take action right away.

If not fixed, missing shingles can lead to extensive water leaks, mold growth, or even more severe damage to your roof decking or home’s structure.

2) Shingle Pieces In Your Gutters

Asphalt shingles have a protective layer of rock-like granules that are your shingles’ first line of defense against hail, debris, rain, and UV rays. If you notice granules in your gutters or at the end of your downspouts, they were knocked off— likely during a strong storm. The second you lose those granules, your shingles are exposed to the elements and at risk of leaks. So fixing those ASAP is vital to protecting your home.

3) Curled or Loose Shingles

If you notice your shingles are no longer laying flat or they’re beginning to curl up at the edges, that’s a sign they’re nearing the end of their lifespan. It can also be caused by strong winds lifting them up and loosening their roofing nails.

Shingles are designed to lay flat and protect your home from water damage. But over time, they can become dry and brittle— causing them to curl and lose their shape. If not fixed, curled shingles will no longer lay flat and can lead to gaps in your roof that allow water to seep through and cause severe damage.

4) Damaged or Cracked Flashing

Flashing is a critical part of your home’s roofing system— as it serves as the layer designed to protect against water, snow, ice, and other weather-related damage.

But if you notice flashing around your chimney or at any of your roof joints has become loose or damaged, there’s likely some unseen water damage to your roof decking. And if not fixed, that water can slowly seep through your ceilings and rot the wood— creating headaches for you (and costing lots of money) in the long run.

5) Unusually High Energy Bills

If your roof has leaks, it can quickly raise your energy bills as your hot or cool air escapes from the peak of your home. It could also be a sign that your attic or roof needs to be re-insulated for one reason or another. So check there first.

6) Mold in the Attic

Mold growth in your attic can be caused by a roof leak that’s been there for a while. Living in a home with mold or mildew can be very hazardous, especially for people with respiratory issues like asthma. It’s vital you get both your roof and the attic wood or insulation replaced as soon as possible to clear the air and avoid further damage.

7) Clogged Gutters

If you notice your gutters are clogged, it could mean tree debris, leaves, dirt, or other foliage are getting in the way of proper drainage. And when your gutters are clogged, that means the water, snow, or melting ice has nowhere to go but to back up into your roof’s edge. Regularly cleaning out your gutters is vital to roof health, and protecting your home’s siding and foundation.

8) Water Stains on the Ceiling

Water stains on your ceiling are the last thing you want to see, as it’s a sure sign you have a roof leak. And while it may not seem like a big deal at first, if left untreated, even the smallest of leaks can cause major damage to your home— costing you thousands in repairs.

9) Poorly Ventilated Attic

If you have a poorly-ventilated attic, it can be another primary culprit in roof damage. The heat from your home’s warm air can irritate and dry out the wood under your roofing shingles— which puts them at high risk of cracking or curling.

To prevent this problem, make sure to use insulation properly and keep the vents in your attic clear of any debris.

10) Large Debris on the Roof

If you see large debris like branches, sticks, or other items that got blown around during a storm, it could mean your shingles suffered in the process. While most shingles are relatively strong and durable, larger debris can scratch, dent, or even crack your shingles if the impact is significant enough. Safely clean off the debris and inspect your shingles for damage.
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Call Red Wolf Roofing Today!

At Red Wolf Roofing, we understand the importance of a sturdy, reliable roof over your head and offer top-of-the-line roofing repairs. Contact us today to get a FREE estimate!

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