Identifying the signs of a failing roof is important in order to avoid major leaks or failures at an unexpected time. Identifying these signs will also help you to create a plan of action for addressing any problems in your roof before they become urgent, helping you to save money by making smaller repairs or quick fixes now instead of major repairs later down the line. With wet and windy fall weather on the horizon, determining whether your or not your roof needs a little TLC becomes all the more important.
So what are the critical signs of a failing roof?
1. Age. Depending on the type of material the roof is made from, it may simply be time to have it rebuilt. For example, an asphalt shingle roof typically lasts 20-25 years before requiring replacement. If you’re unsure of the age of your roof, a qualified roofer can provide an assessment.
2. Mold growth. If you notice mold growing where the roof and wall meets or on exterior walls, it could indicate the roof requires replacement. Swelling wood and rot from damaged flashing creates moisture and ideal conditions for mold to propagate. Further, water that’s leaked into interior walls due to damaged gutters also provides ideal conditions for mold to sprout.
3. Sagging roof. The roof ridge and deck should always be straight. If there is a dip developing along any ridges or along the roof deck, it signals rot or that the rafters or trusses are beginning to fail.
4. Loose nails. Although nails may become exposed or loose over time, they should be replaced immediately. If left, water can easily penetrate the roof structure causing all sorts of damage. If you’ve replaced a great deal of loose or missing nails over time, this could indicate that the roof is weakening.
5. Missing shingles. Strong winds can cause the occasional shingle to loosen or fly away. However, if there are several missing or loose shingles, there may have been time for rain, snow, and ice to seep inside the home. Always check for missing or damaged shingles after heavy storms.
6. Warped shingles. Deteriorating shingles either indicates improper ventilation in the attic or a looming roof failure. Shingles curl over time. However, cracked shingles indicate the underlay has dried and deteriorated. Humidity can cause blistering and moisture build-up in the attic.
7. Algae growth. Algae can be detected since it appears darker and dirtier than the rest of the roof. Algae grows under moist conditions in shady areas. If not removed in a timely manner, algae growth can cause a major roof disaster.
8. Water stains. If there are noticeable dark water stains creeping across the ceiling inside the home, there may be worse water damage elsewhere. It’s always a good idea to inspect the attic annually to catch leaks early on. Arm yourself with a good flashlight and check the attic floor and insulation for moisture.
Roofpro is your go-to Central Vancouver Island roofing company. Based in Nanaimo, Roofpro offers services to all communities from Duncan to Campbell River, as well as Port Alberni, Tofino and Ucluelet. We provide a wide variety of roofing services catered to your unique needs and specifications. Call us at 250-248-3400 or email us at info@theroofpro.ca today to find out more about how we can put a roof over your head!