How Do You Know if You Need Roof Repairs?

Learning when to call a roofer is one of the most important things you can do to protect your home and save yourself some money on expensive repairs. Here’s how to tell whether you need roof repairs. 

Shingles are Missing or Damaged

If you can see shingle damage from the ground or the curb, it’s a good indicator that it’s time to call for some roof repairs. Shingles that have begun to curl, crack, or simply fall off indicate that your roof may be reaching the end of its lifespan, which means it’s time to think about extensive repairs or even roof replacement. Contact a roofing professional right away to learn the extent of the damage and to get a quote on your repairs. Do not put it off; failing to schedule these repairs in a timely manner can lead to structural damage to your home. 

There are Asphalt or Shingle “Bits” in Your Gutters

As shingles age, the topmost protective layer begins to wear away. This allows moving rainwater to slowly erode the asphalt that makes up your shingles, and you’ll notice this by checking inside your gutters. If you see tiny little granules of asphalt in your gutters - or even at the bottom of your downspouts where the water exits the system - contact a roofing professional immediately. This is a good sign that your roof is no longer protecting your home the way it should. 

There are Stains on Your Interior Walls & Ceilings

If you see a water stain on your ceiling or along an interior wall, there’s no need to panic since it can be caused by a variety of different things. More often than not, though, these water spots are the direct result of a leaking roof - and that’s a surefire indicator that you need a quick repair. Moisture entering your home can cause all kinds of damage, including wood rot, the development of harmful mold, and much more. Resolving this issue as quickly as possible can help to minimize that damage. 

A High Energy Bill

Believe it or not, a spike in your energy bill can even be an indicator that you are in need of roof repairs. Sometimes, the heated or cooled air can leak out through your home’s roof when it is in poor condition. The first place to start, though, is in the attic; more often than not, the ventilation issue stems from there. Nevertheless, contact a roofing professional if you experience a sudden energy usage spike just to be on the safe side. 

A Wet Attic

If you notice water in your attic - especially after a significant downpour - this is a surefire sign that there’s a problem somewhere on your roof. In some cases, it may just be the flashing that needs to be replaced. However, if your roof is older, a wet attic can also indicate a problem with the underlayment, which is the very lowest layer of your roof. In this case, significant repairs or even a roof replacement might be in order. 

Roof repairs can range from very simple to extremely complex, so if you see any of the signs listed above, please do not hesitate to contact a professional. In almost every single case, the sooner you address the problem, the less time and money it will take to resolve it.