The roof is one of the most important parts of a house since it protects everything inside of it. Even slight damage to this essential feature can cause serious problems within the home. Therefore, it is essential to check this important structure at regular intervals to be sure it is still in good shape and that no damage has happened.

The normal process if a problem is observed or suspected is to ask a local roofing contractor to conduct an inspection on the structure. An inspector is then sent to conduct an examination using a checklist of common problems and signs. Once the inspection has been completed, the contractor will provide a report and pertinent recommendations.

The whole difficulty with the above process is that many homeowners do not know that they have a dilemma! All too often, contact with a roofing contractor happens when the signs and symptoms are extremely evident. By then it is often too late for simple, less-costly repairs as the damage is now an urgent difficulty. Waiting too long to seek professional help usually results in spending more money than if the problem had been noticed much earlier when simpler, less-costly repairs could have been done.

So, when is the best time to call a contractor? It is very important to know the signs and symptoms of a damaged roof. Following are some of the more common signs and symptoms of such possible problems!

Outside Evidence:

• Missing shingles – This can be caused by improper shingle fastening and exposure to high winds.

• Buckling – This is a result of the mat absorbing too much moisture and is a common problem with shingles that are organic-based. This could also result from poor ventilation or movement of the roof deck.

• Damaged Flashing – This could be due to poor installation. It can result from dents due to improper nailing; drying and cracking; and settling of the structure.

• Curling – This could be a symptom of a lack of back coating and ventilation as well as an improper number of fasteners or using high nails.

• Algae Growth – This is an easily detected symptom because of the dark discoloration on the roof. The portion where algae are present will turn from brown to black. Algae growth is caused by air-borne algae being deposited on the structure. It doesn’t affect the life of the material; however most homeowners replace the roof because it looks ‘dirty.’

• Rotting Shingles – This can occur when the mat absorbs too much moisture, which is especially possible with organic-based shingles.

Inside Evidence:

• Dark Spots on the Ceiling - These spots are usually the result of a leak that could be coming from several different points on the roof. The most common areas for such damage include: deck leaks; cracked flashing around vents and chimneys; rafters; eaves, and damanged shingles.

• Dark Spots on the Wood – Test any dark spot with a screwdriver to see if it is soft or hard. Soft areas in the wood’s dark spots mean that there is a current leak.

• Light Coming Into the Attic or Crawl Space - If the roof is made from wooden shakes, this is a common occurrence since shakes usually swell during wet months. If it is made from other material and light is shining in from the outside, then there is probably a hole in the structure causing that to happen.

Repairing only the discovered damaged parts of the roof is certainly possible; however, it is not always the best solution. Repairs will only last so long and then the original problem will most likely return and result in more money being spent at that time. Seek the advice of a professional roofing contractor as to whether the best choice is to repair the damage or replace the entire upper structure. Don’t dismiss what is being shown as a warning - help that roof today!