When you own an asset like a home or building, it’s important to keep a close eye on it. After all, small issues like a leaky roof can often snowball into a bigger problem if left unchecked.
Fortunately, there are plenty of little red flags that indicate when your roof needs some tender loving care. Knowing what to look for is the first step towards ensuring your investment remains in good condition for years to come.
With that in mind, here are some common signs of roof damage you should be on the lookout for:
1. The Smell Test
If you notice a strong, musty odor in your home that you can’t trace to any identifiable source, it could be a sign of roof damage.
If water has been leaking through your roof and onto the wooden joists that support it, it can cause wood rot. This process releases a pungent, musty smell that can seep through your home’s walls, particularly in humid weather.
If you notice this smell in your home, don’t ignore it. Wood rot is an issue that needs to be dealt with quickly, lest it worsen and become more expensive to fix.
2. Curling or Buckling Shingles
If one of your roof shingles is curling upwards or buckling, it could mean that it’s lifting away from the underlying structure and needs replacing. This could also indicate that your roof has shifted and is no longer level, which may be a sign of more serious damage.
Run your hand along the roof until you find the shingle that’s lifting. You can then use a flathead screwdriver to push it back into place. But if you find a shingle that’s lifting at multiple points, it’s best to get in touch with Unified Roofing to check your roof as soon as possible.
3. Dark Discoloration on Your Ceiling or Walls
If you notice dark stains on your ceiling or walls, it could be a sign of roof damage. Dark brown, black or rust-colored mold is the result of spores and bacteria growing on water-logged wood and other building materials like shingles, insulation and even paint.
If you notice this discoloration, it’s best to call a contractor out to look at your roof as soon as possible.
4. Leaks in Your Ceiling, Walls or Kitchen
If you start to notice water dripping from your ceiling or walls, it could be a sign of roof damage. Roof leaks can cause all sorts of problems, from discoloration to mold to expensive repair bills. If you find water puddling on your ceiling or dripping from your walls, you should immediately call a roofing contractor to come out and take a look at your roof.
5. Cracking in Your Ceiling or Flooring
If you notice a crack in your ceiling or flooring, it could be a sign that your roof is under too much pressure and needs to be reinforced.
While this could be due to many different causes, such as shifting soil or structural problems, it’s a warning sign that your roof could be under strain. If it’s not given the support it needs, the weight on it could increase to the point where it collapses entirely.
6. Rotting or Crumbling Materials
If your roof is made of wood, it can be eaten away by termites or it might begin to rot if the shingles become waterlogged. This can lead to the wood underneath crumbling, which can in turn cause whole sections of the roof to collapse.
Let Unified Roofing Handle Your Roofing Needs
A good roof is worth thousands in reduced energy costs, protection from the elements and a stronger curb appeal for your home. So, if you want to get the most out of your roof, regular inspection and repair are necessary.
It’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of roof damage, whether it be a leaking roof or discoloration on your ceiling. When you notice these changes, don’t ignore them. Instead, call a roofing contractor out to assess the damage and determine whether the roof needs to be repaired or replaced entirely.
