The damage to your home after a rain or wind storm isn’t always obvious. When it comes to wind damage roof shingles may look unharmed at first. It’s important to examine your roof so you catch on to subtle signs of deterioration. Homeowners can spot the issues that point to deeper underlying problems. Contact the experts for a professional roof inspection if you notice any of these signs:
1. Visible Shingle Damage
On a conventional shingle roof, damage is easy to spot. Look for shingles that are curled, cracked, or just plain missing. Cracks on the surface mean the shingle is structurally weak and could be gone the next time it rains. It only takes one missing shingle to start a leak.
2. Problems with Gutters
If your gutter has been damaged, get it repaired or replaced right away. Without a functional gutter, rainwater will leach into the foot of your building and may damage the foundation. Also look for shiny granules from shingles trapped in your gutters. This points to erosion of your remaining shingles.
3. Dents or Scratches Around Roof Features
A visual examination of your roof from the ground is enough to see damage around protruding roof features. Pay special attention to the bottom edges of chimneys and the shingles around them. Also look at flashing, which seals roof joints, and any visible fasteners like nails or screws that may be loose.
4. Signs of Moisture in the Attic
Even if your roof appears to be intact, check conditions in the attic to make sure. Damage that exposes the attic to outside air will raise the level of moisture. You can catch signs of water here even before a leak starts to penetrate into your ceiling. Check for airflow from outside or a damp, clammy feeling.
5. Warped Rafters in the Attic
Since they are usually made of wood, rafters will tell you the tale of damage that needs to be repaired right away. Rafters are structural members that support the weight of the roof. They should appear to be straight and have no water damage on any surface. If they appear warped or wet, call a roofer for a roof inspection right away!
6. Stains on Ceilings or Walls
By the time staining takes place, most leaks have already become structurally serious. After any storm, take time to closely examine the ceilings and top corners of the walls in rooms on your home’s upper stories. Tiny spots may be easy to overlook. It’s best to address them before they develop any further.
7. Peeling Paint Near Roofline
Blistering or peeling paint near the roofline is typically a sign of gradual humidity buildup that results from poor ventilation of the roof and attic. The problems this creates can be worsened by a storm. Peeling paint is another simple symptom that’s actually a critical barometer of the damage your roof has suffered
After wind damage roof materials must be repaired as soon as possible to maintain structural integrity. Even if you don’t notice an active leak right away, any of these seven signs can turn into a major leak after a short time. An inspection by licensed and insured roofers is the fastest way to diagnose damage, verify the best way forward, and protect your home.
We work with GAF to ensure the best materials are used during our projects. To find out more or schedule a roof inspection, contact us today.