Shingles, Nails, and Beyond

Over time, weather conditions such as high winds, storms, and ice can wreak havoc on your roof. Flying debris such as rocks and tree branches can permanently dislodge and damage your roof tiling.

In most cases, repair suffices, but roof replacement is the best idea if the roof is extensively damaged. A new roof protects your home against the elements and adds a touch of aesthetics. A new roof can also improve your home's energy efficiency and property value. To determine whether you need a new roof, look out for the following signs:

The Roof Sags

While it's normal for your roof to sag slightly, excessive sagging indicates that your roof's structural integrity is compromised. Poor drainage in your roof can cause rainwater to seep through your roofing material. Over time, moisture buildup will trigger mold growth, weakening your roofing system. 

Also, broken trusses or rafters can cause your roof to sag, forcing you to replace the entire roof. Moreover, excessive weight on the roof or falling objects can split your rafts, leading to irreparable damage.

The Roof Has Visible Leaks 

Damaged flashing is one of the most common causes of roof leaks. Flashings are pieces of metal that create a water-resistant barrier between the transition areas of your roof. The flashings contain tar which can erode over time due to rain or strong winds. Hence, the flashings will gradually develop cracks, allowing water to seep through.

The older your roof gets, the more your shingles become visibly damaged. Exposure to the sun and rain will cause your roof's shingles to rot and crack. Even though damaged shingles may not cause immediate leaks, they can trigger a damage chain reaction. The cracks will get bigger and expose the underlayment beneath the shingles.

The underlayment will then rot and expose your roof decking to more damage. Fortunately, your roofing contractor can easily pull out the damaged shingles and replace them with new ones. 

The Roof Boards Allow Daylight to Pass Through

You shouldn't panic if you see sunlight shining into your attic through your roof boards. However, you must thoroughly inspect the underside of your roof, preferably when the room is dark. Rule out any possibility of light coming from your roof's ridges or eaves, which is normal.

If you notice the light comes from areas such as the chimney, stovepipes, air conditioner, and bathroom fan vents, this is a red flag. Daylight shouldn't come from these areas. This issue could mean water can easily leak through these areas and damage your attic.

Reach out to a residential roof replacement service to find out more information.