The average homeowner spends over $7,000 to replace a roof. You need to make your roof last as long as possible to avoid this expense.
Roof problems are very difficult to spot. Doing so early can extend the life of your roof and prevent small issues from becoming big ones.
What are the common roof problems? Read on to find out what they are and how you can discover them.
1. Damaged Shingles
Roofing shingles are designed to last so long. They can also get damaged in a storm. If a roof shingle is damaged or deteriorated, the rest of your roof is vulnerable.
Water can get into the underlayment and the roofing structure. Miss the warning signs, and your entire roof can have issues over time.
There are two ways to look for damaged shingles. Look at your roof after a storm to see if there are missing or broken shingles. Replace them right away.
Check your gutters for small shingle granules. That’s a sign of deteriorating shingles that need to be replaced.
2. Roof Leaks
Roof leaks are another common problem. You want to be able to identify these leaks early before they do significant damage to your home.
Every few months, take a look at your attic. Make sure the insulation is dry and free of mold. Wet or moldy insulation is a sign of a roof leak.
You also want to check the ceilings and walls in your home for discolored paint. That can be a signal for roof leaks, too.
If you see signs of a roof leak, contact a roofing contractor to locate the source of the leak.
3. Snow Loads
This being wintertime, you should be concerned about snow loads on your roof. They’re not designed to withstand a lot of snow for a long period of time.
If a snowstorm does come through your area, remove as much snow as you can with a rake. That will help your roof handle the snow without collapsing.
4. Structural Problems
This is the most difficult roof problem to identify because it means that there is a severe issue with your roof. There could be dry rot or another issue that can lead to a roof collapse.
Identifying leaks early and handling them right away is a good step to prevent structural problems. If you see issues like sloping or dipping, contact a roofer right away.
Identify Common Roof Problems
Like everything in your home, it’s possible to have minor issues turn into expensive ones. Your roof is no exception. You want to make sure that you inspect your home regularly to check for roof problems like leaks and damaged shingles.
The last thing you want is to have moisture get into the roofing structure. That can turn into dry rot and weaken the roof.
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