Some roofing problems are easy to spot. Others can go unnoticed for a while before you realize there is a problem. A small leak, missing shingle, or damaged flashing may not seem like a big deal at first, but leaving it alone can lead to more damage. Knowing when to call a roofing contractor in Lebanon, PA, can save you from dealing with a much bigger roofing problem later.
What Are the Signs That Your Roof Needs Attention?
You do not need to climb onto the roof to look for every problem. There are a few things you can notice from the ground or inside the house.
1. You Notice Water or Stains Inside
A stain on the ceiling or wall can mean that water is getting in through the roof. You may also see damp spots in the attic or moisture around vents. If you can safely access the attic, look for daylight coming through the roof, damp insulation, water marks, or signs of moisture. If you notice a new stain, do not put off having it checked. A leak can spread to other areas before there are any obvious signs.
2. You See Missing or Damaged Shingles
Wind and storms can leave shingles cracked, loose, or missing. Take a look at the roof from the ground after bad weather and see if anything looks out of place. Curling edges or shingles that look more worn than the rest are also worth having checked. You may also notice loose granules collecting in gutters or downspouts. Excessive granule loss can indicate that shingles are wearing down and may need professional attention.
If you notice any of these signs, have a roofer take a closer look. It could be a simple repair, but several damaged shingles may also mean that the roof is getting close to the end of its service life.
3. Your Roof Looks Worn or Uneven
Take a look at your roof from the ground every now and then. If parts of it look saggy, uneven, or more worn than the rest of the roof, there may be a problem underneath the shingles. A sagging area should not be ignored. It can point to damaged decking or other issues that need to be checked by a roofing professional.
When Is It Time to Think About a Roof Replacement?
Not every roofing problem means you need a new roof. Sometimes a repair is all that is needed. In some cases, though, replacing the roof makes more sense. During winter, also watch for ice dams along the roof edge. These can form when melting snow refreezes near the gutters and may allow water to back up beneath the roofing materials.
1. Your Roof Is Getting Old
If your roof is nearing the end of its service life, which is roughly about 15-30 years in most cases, and you are already dealing with frequent repairs, it may be time to look at replacement. An inspection can give you a better idea of the condition of the roof and whether it still has years left in it.
2. You Keep Calling for Repairs
One repair is not necessarily a reason to replace the whole roof. If you are dealing with leaks, damaged shingles, or other problems again and again, though, the repair bills can start to add up. At that point, ask a contractor to look at the roof as a whole. It may be better to replace an aging roof than keep putting money into one that is nearing the end of its life.
3. You Have Had Recent Storm Damage
Storms can leave behind damage that is not always obvious right away. Wind, hail, and falling branches can damage shingles, flashing, gutters, and other parts of the roofing system. If your home has recently been through a strong storm, have the roof checked even if you do not see a leak. If you plan to make an insurance claim for storm damage, check your policy and contact your insurer promptly because policies can set deadlines for reporting or filing claims.
If you suspect storm damage, photograph the affected areas before making repairs, avoid signing contracts with door-to-door roofing canvassers on the spot, and have a professional inspection completed before filing an insurance claim.
Conclusion
A roofing problem rarely gets better by itself. Calling a contractor when you first notice something can help you find the problem before the damage spreads. If you notice a leak, damaged shingles, sagging areas, or repeated roofing problems, schedule an inspection. Contact a roofing contractor to look over the roof and tell you whether a repair is enough or if replacement is worth discussing.
