The roofs over our homes put up with a lot: cold and heat, sun and snow, high winds and storms. We tend not to think about our roof until it is too late and water damage is done. It’s best to do regular roof inspections of home roofs, to repair problems before they cause real headaches.
Here are some typical signs that your roof needs repairing or replacing:
Broken or Missing Shingles
Shingles can go missing or get broken after big storms, weakening the roof’s ability to shed water and providing entrance points for leaks. It’s a good idea to have some spare shingles on hand for roof repairs, or to contact your local, Denver roofing contractor. We can discuss our impact resistant shingle option to help prevent future storm damage.
Curling, Clawing or Buckling Shingles
Curling or clawing can be a sign of aging shingles and heat damage. They are then susceptible to being torn off by winds or ice damage. Buckling shingles, usually seen in wave patterns, can also be caused by aging, as well as poor installation and wet conditions. Wind and ice are also a threat here.
Missing Granules and Bare Spots
Missing granules and bare spots on shingles can allow them to harden from heat and sun exposure, accelerating aging and decay, and providing an entry point for water. The condition can be caused by poor drainage, causing a waterfall effect.
Gutter Problems
You should clean your gutters a couple of times a year, in fall and spring, removing sticks, leaves and other debris. If your roof doesn’t drain properly, water could back up in the gutters and enter your property, during rain and snowfalls.
Natural Touches
Animal droppings can actually speed up the wear of shingles. These should be cleared away and nearby branches trimmed so that it’s harder for animals to get on the roof. Any moss or algae growing on the roof should also be removed. These are more likely to appear on shaded parts of the roof.
Damaged Flashings
Flashings around skylights, valleys, eaves, rakes, wall details, stacks and chimneys are all potential entry points for water because of separation, lifting and dried out caulking. The flashing details can lift and separate due to the general expansion and contraction that comes with temperature changes.
Gaps
If you see gaps between the roof and chimney, or windows, vents and so on, then you need to take action. Caulking could solve the problem. But over time roof repairs, and vent and window replacements might become necessary.
Do you need to find out more about getting your roof repaired or replaced? Contact Refined Exteriors, Denver area’s trusted roofing contractor, for a free consultation.
