Signs Your Shingle Roof Needs Attention

signs your shingle roof needs attention

It’s easy to overlook your roof, even though it keeps your most valuable belongings safe and dry in all kinds of weather.

Knowing how to identify and fix potential roof problems is important. It can save thousands of dollars throughout your roof’s lifespan and safeguard your home or business.

Missing Shingles

Missing shingles not only affect the look of your home or business but can also cause significant issues with your roof over time. This is particularly problematic if shingles are missing in or near valleys and along the edges, where water is directed. Shingle roofs are designed to shed water effectively, but missing shingles due to wind damage, poor installation, or loose nails can compromise this function. Additionally, inspect the overall condition of your shingles for signs like curling, loss of granules, or cracks, as these may indicate that your shingles are nearing the end of their lifespan.

Curling/Buckling Shingles

Curling or clawing shingles indicate an aging roof and excessive heat. These shingles are prone to wind uplift and ice damage, becoming brittle and breaking easily. Poorly placed downspouts and badly designed valley drainage on a second story can create a waterfall effect that erodes granules over time. Aging and physical damage can also cause bare spots and granule loss. Without protective granules, shingles harden due to heat and sun exposure. This loss speeds up aging and decay, making the roof more susceptible to water entry.

Broken and missing shingles significantly reduce a roof’s ability to shed water, creating potential water entry points. Excessive wind and physical damage are two common causes of shingle damage. Buckling shingles, which appear as vertical waves up the roof slope, are also vulnerable to wind and ice damage and can be torn off easily. The overall age of the roof and wet or poorly installed underlayment are typical causes of buckling shingles.

infographic Signs Your Shingle Roof Needs Attention

Water Leaks and Stains

Water leaks are a common issue for homeowners and can cause significant damage to both your roof and interior. Be on the lookout for water stains on your ceilings or walls, as these may indicate a roof leak. Ignoring these signs can lead to mold growth, which can compromise your home’s air quality. At Certa Roofing, we can trace the source of the leak and provide effective solutions to prevent further damage.

Sagging Roof

A sagging roof is a serious problem that needs immediate attention. If you see a dip or sag in your roofline, it may indicate structural damage or weakened support beams. Causes can include excessive weight on the roof, water damage, or poor construction. Our experienced professionals will assess the situation and provide solutions to restore your roof’s integrity.

Damaged/Cracked Shingles

One clear sign that your roof needs professional attention is the presence of damaged shingles. Severe weather or natural wear and tear can cause this damage, compromising the effectiveness of your solar panel installation. To prevent further issues, it’s essential to have a professional roofer repair or replace any damaged shingles promptly.

Your Roof is Over Ten Years of Age

Knowing the age of your roof and the lifespan of the materials used is a simple way to gauge its condition. If your roof is properly maintained and correctly installed, it should be trouble-free for the first ten years. After this period, it’s wise to have a roofing expert inspect it. Even if you have a 30-year shingle warranty, an inspection at the 10-year mark can identify any issues, allowing for minor repairs that could extend the roof’s life by another 10-15 years.

Granule Loss

One clear sign that your roof needs professional attention is the presence of damaged or missing shingles. Severe weather or natural wear and tear can cause this damage, compromising the effectiveness of your solar panel installation. To prevent further issues, it’s essential to have a professional roofer repair or replace any damaged shingles promptly.

You See Compromised Wood

Check your roof for signs of deteriorating wood, which could indicate water penetration. Deterioration of fascia & soffit wood along the roof perimeter often signals roofing or gutter issues. Other less visible wood areas, crucial for roof support, can also deteriorate, such as decking, which may show as wet spots in the attic. Poor ventilation or leaks are common causes. If decking feels spongy or compromised, it’s crucial to contact a roofing expert promptly for a thorough inspection and advice. 

Call an Expert

If you notice any of these signs, your roof may still be in good condition and only require repairs. However, you must consult a residential roofing expert when observing these signs. They will comprehensively inspect your roof and provide expert advice on its current condition and future outlook. The roofing expert will discuss various options with you, such as minor repairs, maintenance services, or roof replacement.

At Certa Roofing, we prioritize long-term sustainability. We welcome sustainable building customers to contact us for a complimentary evaluation. With over 25 years of experience, Certa Roofing has expertly installed and maintained a wide range of roofing materials throughout Michigan. Our services span residential, commercial, custom architectural metal fabrication, and historical renovation projects. Contact us now for your next roofing project.

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