Most roof problems are readily apparent, but others aren’t noticeable until serious damage has already occurred. Many homeowners take their roofs for granted until they start leaking. Become more roof-conscious and prevent serious damage by looking out for the signs of roof failure listed below.
Clawing/Curling Shingles
Clawing or curling of a roof’s shingles are signs of excessive heat and an aging roofing system, and it leaves shingles highly vulnerable to ice damage and wind uplifting. Shingles damaged in this manner become very rigid, and can easily break or lose their tab edges.
Bare Spots and Missing Granules
A poorly placed downspout or inadequate valley drainage can cause a cascade effect that gradually washes away shingle granules. Physical damage and roof aging can also cause granule loss and bare spots, and when the shingles’ protective coating wears away, they begin to harden from exposure. Granule loss accelerates roof aging, and it can allow water to seep in, causing severe damage over time.
Missing and Broken Shingles
Roofs with missing and broken shingles are less able to shed water, and damaging leaks can result. The two most common causes of shingle damage are physical impact and excessive wind. After a severe wind or rain storm, have the roof evaluated by roofing contractors in Palm Beach Gardens FL.
Shingle Buckling
When shingles buckle, visible distortions typically run vertically up the roof’s slope. These shingles are highly vulnerable to ice and wind damage, and they can easily be torn away. The roof’s overall age and the status of its underlayment can sometimes cause shingles to buckle.
Damaged Roof Flashings
Flashings are found around eaves, rakes, chimneys, valleys and skylights, and they are subject to lifting, separation and deterioration of caulking. Flashing can separate and lift because of everyday contraction and expansion, which will eventually allow water to get in between the shingles and the underlayment. Flashing damage should be professionally repaired as soon as possible.
If a homeowner notices any of the above signs of damage, they should click here to call a roofer for repairs or roof replacement. Roof leaks aren’t always visible from the inside of the home; they can sometimes cause damage to deck sheathing and insulation, which can greatly increase replacement cost. By calling Roofing Contractors in Palm Beach Gardens FL at the first sign of trouble, small problems can be kept manageable.
