How to Tell if You’re Overdue for Roof Maintenance

As a homeowner, it’s easy to overlook certain parts of your home. Often, it isn’t until disaster strikes and something suddenly stops working, that you first take notice of any major issues. When it comes to your roof, it’s important to do routine checks for signs of wear and tear, as it may be something that can be repaired, versus having to do a complete roof replacement.

Here are some signs that your roof is in need of some repair:

Shingles are curling
If your shingles are curling at the ends, this means they’ve been exposed to moisture and are nearing the end of their lifespan and require some maintenance. Cracked or missing shingles are also cause for maintenance.

Loose granules everywhere
For those with asphalt or composite shingles, if you discover little pieces or granules scattered about your yard or in your gutter, then it’s a clear sign that your roof is overdue for repair. Loose granules are a result of shingles disintegrating over time as a result of decomposition, leaving a sandy residue behind.

Moss growth
The biggest problem with moss is that it can damage the structural integrity to any type of roof. Moss thrives in damp, shaded environments, which then also absorbs the moisture from the damp environment and causes roots to grow on your roof. The roots can lift your shingles, allowing constant moisture in, growing mold and bacteria. This process can eventually lead to leaks in your home.

Signs of leaking
Leaks are often the first sign that your roof is in need of repair. A small leak allows moisture to get in between the cracks, which can spread into your roofing material. When the moisture expands and contracts due to temperature changes, this can widen openings in the roof and eventually leading to deterioration. It’s important to fix any leaks right away, before they become a major problem.

Signs of sagging
While trapped moisture under the shingles causing them to curl is one thing, a sagging roof is a much bigger problem which requires immediate attention. A sagging roof can be the result of a problem or an issue with the decking, or rafters. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll need to replace the entire roof, especially if only one or two rafters are affected.

Increased energy bills
While you may think that water and light are the only things that can leak through a roof, air can also leak through. When this happens, your heating and cooling systems will have to compensate for the breach. If you notice that your energy bill is rising and you haven’t made any drastic changes in the temperature, this could be a sign that air is leaking through your roof and some maintenance is required to fix the problem.

Be proactive
Checking your roof for signs of damage, along with routine maintenance can prolong the life of your roof and help avoid the need for an expensive roof replacement.