9 Major Signs You Need a Roof Repair

If you take your home’s roof for granted, you might be putting yourself at risk. Neglecting routine roof maintenance can lead to significant issues down the road. Moreover, a damaged roof can negatively impact the value of your property when it comes time to sell.

Not to mention that the roof is one of the most expensive parts of a house to repair or replace. So it pays to know the many red flags that indicate you need a roof repair sooner rather than later.

From broken or discolored tiles to sagging eaves, here are nine major signs you need to contact a local roofing contractor.

9 Telltale Signs Your Roof Needs a Repair

Your roof is over ten years old

If you have a roof that’s over ten years old, issues will start cropping up, and when they do, you should pay attention. If your area hasn’t experienced any major disaster like a hurricane or tornado and you’re experiencing the issues listed below, there’s a chance that your roof is simply beyond its lifespan.

Roofs typically last between 12 and 20 years, depending on the type of shingles you have installed. Some shingles last longer than others, but all roofs eventually need to be replaced. A roof that’s over ten years old is likely on its last legs.

Evidence of water damage

If there’s evidence of water damage in your home, this could be a sign that you have a leaky roof. Water damage can also indicate that your roof is too old to be repaired. If you’re noticing water damage in your home, start looking for the source of the leak and get in touch with a roofing contractor.

Remember that the longer you wait, the greater the risk of mold and rot. If the damage warrants tearing down a significant portion of your roof, it may be best to replace it entirely.

Cracks in the plaster or drywall

Cracks in the plaster or drywall are a sign that there’s some settling happening in your home. When this happens, areas of your roof are putting unnecessary strain on the walls of your home, causing cracks in the plaster or drywall. Cracks also indicate that water is pooling in these areas of your home, causing rot.

If you find cracks in the plaster or see the roof pushing against the walls of your home, a roof repair may be in order. Your roofing contractor will advise you if a repair will eliminate the problem or if a roof replacement is necessary.

Cracked or broken shingles

Cracked or broken shingles signify that they aren’t doing their job. Water can get through damaged shingles and into your home, causing rot, mold, and other damage. Fortunately, broken shingles are an easy fix. Your contractor will remove them, replace them, and then seal your roof.

Your roof keeps your home intact, comfortable, and safe as it keeps out bad weather and excess water. Don’t let damaged shingles warp into bigger, costlier concerns in the future.

Holes in your ceiling tiles

Missing or broken ceiling tiles can also mean that there are holes in your roof. Water can get into your home through these holes, causing damage to your ceiling tiles and other surfaces.

Water leaks can also seep into other structural components of your home such as your wiring, furniture, and appliances, which can lead to more headaches down the line. That said, you should take action as soon as possible.

Moss Growing on the Roof

Moss growth is a common roof repair problem. It’s important to treat the source of the problem and remove the moss before it can spread. Moss on the roof could mean water is getting into your roof and not draining out, resulting in mold growth, which is even more damaging to your roof and your health.

When left unresolved, moss can quickly spread to cover your entire roof, which may require a complete replacement. An effective way to treat moss is to identify and fix the source of the problem. Keep in mind that the older the roof, the more likely moss will grow on it.

Light Spilling Into the Attic

Light coming through the ceiling of your attic is another sure sign that it’s time to take action. The water inside your attic can cause significant damage, including mold and rot, which can also affect your home’s structural integrity.

Getting the water out of the attic as soon as possible is essential. If the leak is coming through tiles, you’ll want to replace them as soon as possible. But if the leak is coming through the flashing, the only solution may be to tear off and replace the entire roof.

Sagging eaves

Eaves are the edges of your roof that run along the top of your walls. When eaves sag, it indicates that the roof needs repair. Sagging eaves can also signal that the roof is too old to be repaired, so it’s best to address the issue as soon as possible.

Animals in Your Attic

Bats and squirrels are just some of the many animals that can take up residence in your attic. You may also see raccoons, mice, and other pests. Having critters in your attic could mean some damage to your roof.

While you can remove the animals, it’s always better to address the root cause of the problem. These critters are likely making their way into your attic through holes and gaps in your roof. Over time, these cracks will get bigger, and you’ll find yourself with a pest infestation problem.

A roof can serve you anywhere between 10 and 30 years, depending on the type, the care it receives, and the weather conditions in your area. You should schedule a roof inspection if you notice any of the signs listed above.

A contractor can solve the issue quickly and easily and will usually provide a free estimate so you can compare costs and prepare a budget. It’s also important to invest in roof maintenance to expand its lifespan and prevent costly repairs.

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