The roof of your home is the first barrier of protection against all the undesirables of the outside world. That being said, a well-maintained roof can last for years or even decades. Unfortunately, homeowners often neglect the roof until it is too late. It is essential to be aware of what is happening inside and outside your roof. That way, roof damage can be caught quickly, and you don’t need to worry about the structure of your home.
Here are some signs of roof damage that should not be overlooked.
Leaks and Water Damage
Leaks and water damage can sometimes be difficult to spot until it is too late. If a leak is in an area of your home that does not get much traffic, you could go weeks or even months without noticing a problem. This could be in spaces like your attic or a spare bedroom that is not used often. When you see leaking or signs of water damage, it is crucial that you do not leave it unaddressed for too long.
Leaks and water damage can mean that there are holes or other vulnerabilities in your roof that can cause further damage. Not to mention the damages that can result from leaving this issue to marinate for too long.
Why Are Leaks and Water Damage Dangerous?
Water is something that we all need to survive, so there is no way it could be dangerous, right? Wrong. Leaks and water damage pose a serious threat to the structure of your home. Water that has been left to stagnate can cause your roofing materials to become brittle and weak, thus, leaving your barrier of protection less effective.
Additionally, just as humans need water, so do other organisms. Meaning leaking and water damage can create a breeding ground for fungi, bacteria, and pests. Pests, fungi, and bacteria are all attracted to moisture. Therefore, if given the opportunity to grow, they will. If you notice signs of water damage or leaking, call a professional immediately. Remember, a leaky faucet or pipe can become way more severe in a short amount of time.
Shingle Damage
The shingles on your home withstand a lot of damage throughout the seasons. From heavy snowfall in the winter to the pelting sun in the summertime, your shingles rarely get a break. Because your shingles overcome so many obstacles throughout the year, it is vital that you check for damage routinely. If shingles are loose, curled, or missing, it may be time to perform a further inspection to determine the cause of the problem.
Why Is Shingle Damage So Serious?
As shingles become damaged, your roof loses its ability to perform its job of protecting your home. The underlayment and other roofing materials under your shingles become exposed to the elements that they should be protected by. If too many shingles become damaged or break off, you could be looking at a premature roof replacement.
Damaged Gutters
An essential part of your roofing system is your gutters. Gutters are vital for weatherproofing and safe water runoff away from your home. Despite their importance, many homeowners do not take the time to get their gutter cleaned and to check for damages. Gutters are exposed to numerous elements, so it is necessary to keep them clean and debris-free.
If gutters are not kept clean and checked regularly, they could form build-up that will hinder their primary functions. Making sure that there are no leaves, granules, or dirt gathered in your gutters can protect them from damage.
Are Damaged Gutters Really That Serious?
Damaged gutters mean water from rain or snow has no direction on where to go. This is dangerous because it can lead to water damage to both the interior and exterior of your home. If an issue with your gutters is left unattended, it could result in severe damage to the rest of your home. Some examples of damages that can result from a lack of proper gutter care include:
- Your gutters can become too heavy and fall off, which could result in damage to your windows or siding.
- Your gutters can become clogged and begin to pool water that can attract flies and other insects.
- Gutter damage can lead to water leaking into the foundation of your home and the roof.
Sagging
A sagging roof can mean a few things. Unfortunately, none of these things are good. This issue often points to water damage. Saggy roofs can also be a result of too much pressure. Pressure can come from snow, ice, wind, or any other direct weight. Sagging is a very severe form of roof damage, and let’s face it, no one wants to see their roof caving in.
Why Is Sagging a Bad Sign?
Not only does sagging not look good aesthetically, but it is also an indication of severe damage to your roofing structure. If left unaddressed, the roofing materials begin to weaken more than they already have. This puts more pressure on the underlying roofing materials and can cause them to bend or even break.
If you notice signs of sagging, you should not wait to call for professional help. There is no right time to call because waiting too long can be the reason your roof caves in.
Call Martin & Sons LLC for All Your Roofing Needs in St. Charles, MO
Dont, wait to address your roofing issues. Call Martin & Sons LLC for efficient service and fair prices. If you are interested in scheduling an inspection of your roof in Florissant, MO, feel free to reach out to our team as soon as possible. We are fully committed to providing top-quality roofing services to clients in Florissant, Missouri, and across the state. Our team will ensure that your roof in Florissant, MO, is in top working order so that you have the protection that you need. Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate to get started. Don’t wait until it is too late to fix your roofing issues.