For homeowners, performing property assessments to ensure that everything is functioning properly is important to preventing damage, dangerous conditions, and future expenses. One of the most important assessments to conduct is a roof assessment. If any of the following are noticed, it may be a sign that the roof is failing, and that immediate action needs to be taken to repair it:

Missing, Cracked, or Discolored Shingles

One of the easiest ways to detect a roof that’s in disrepair is looking for missing, cracked, or discolored shingles. Blisters and cracks in shingles can also be a sign that a roof is at risk, and that the shingles need to be replaced. When shingles are missing or irregular, moisture may be making its way through the roof, which can lead to serious damage.

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Signs of Water Damage Inside the Home

The most obvious sign of a leaking roof and water damage is a noticeable leak coming from the ceiling or attic. Other, less obvious signs of water damage that may be indicative of a roof that’s in need of repair are water markings, bubbles in the paint or ceiling surface, discoloration, and cracks in the ceiling or walls. If any of the above are noticed, it’s important that a professional assesses the situation as soon as possible to prevent against—or repair—serious damage.

Shingle Granules in Gutter

The granules on shingles—or the small, sand-like pieces that make up the shingles’ surface—help to protect the roof from strong winds, UV damage, and moisture. When granules deteriorate or are rubbed off, a roof is at risk of weather damage. If granules are noticed in gutters, it’s a sign that the roof is ready to be repaired or even completely replaced.

Changes to Your Energy Bills

If a home’s monthly heating and cooling bills have changed drastically, it may be a sign that the roof is leaking in air, or that there’s inadequate attic ventilation, leading to increased costs. Roof insulation is a very important part of maintaining utility costs and reducing energy losses. If hot or cool air is escaping, it may be time to think about replacing the roof.

The Roof is Old

Sometimes, the age of a roof alone is enough to know that it’s time for replacement. Roofs typically have a lifespan of between 20 and 25 years – if a roof is older than that and any of the signs of roof damage have been noticed, the roof should be assessed to determine whether or not it’s in need of repair.

Missing, cracked, and discolored shingles, shingle granules in the gutter, interior water damage, changes to heating and cooling bills, and a roof that is aged are all signs that a roof is deteriorating and is in need or replacement or repair. To learn more about the signs that your home’s roof is failing and what actions should be taken to correct it, call a roofing repair and replacement professional as soon as possible.