Many homeowners love asphalt shingle roofs due to its cost-effectiveness, durability, and versatility since it’s available in a myriad of design options. Following routine installation and maintenance, you don’t need to worry about calling on your roofing contractor for an emergency roof repair or replacement anytime soon. Despite that, many roofing systems undergo a lot of stress against the elements, such as high winds, harmful UV rays and heavy rains.
With that in mind, it’s normal to see roofing systems degrade due to wear and tear. However, it’s important to distinguish between natural wear and tear, and real roofing damage. In this post, Villwell Builders, LLC, shares a comprehensive guide on how to do so.
How Can You Tell If Your Roof Is Approaching the End of Its Service Life?
Too Much Sunlight Exposure
It’s normal for roofing systems to handle heavy amounts of sunlight on a daily basis, especially if they aren’t shaded by trees. However, during the summer months where UV radiation is at an all-time high, it can cause severe damage to your roofing system. As time goes by, it will result in shingle warming and discoloration. Warped shingles might seem like a cosmetic problem on the surface, but a few warped shingles can eventually lead to serious problems, which will eventually warrant a roof replacement.
Decaying Shingles
Your roof repair contractor will warn you that warped shingles that are exposed to severe sunlight will eventually start to decay. Some early warning signs to look out for are dents, cracks, and excessive granule loss. Other than seeing dark spots on your roof, decayed shingles will start to wither away from your roof. If left untreated, this issue will only worsen and lead to other problems that will affect your home’s interior, such as leaks and water damage. During this situation, your trusted roofer would recommend a full roof replacement if there are numerous shingles missing.
Roofing Shingle Discoloration
Other than warping, sustained exposure to UV rays can lead to roof discoloration. Granted, shingle discoloration could simply be aesthetic damage, but it will significantly impact your home’s curb appeal. It’s also one of the early signs that tell you that your roof is about to warp, or it’s approaching the end of its lifespan.
Dark Streaks or Stains on the Shingles
Your roof repair company will tell you that roofing manufacturers create shingles with protective granules to shield your shingles from the elements. These same granules also give that pop of color to your shingles. Don’t be alarmed to see some of these granules fall off right as they’re installed. In fact, some of these granules might’ve already fallen during shipping, handling, and during the installation process. Once you have a new roofing system installed, it’s normal to see granules fall on the gutters or on the ground due to wind and handling. If you’ve had your roofing system installed for quite a while, you’ll find out that they’re more prone to losing granules. As these granules fade away, you’ll notice dark spots or stains replacing them, warning you that your roof has significant granule loss.
Wind-Related Damage
One of the most feared elements that your roof can be exposed to is high winds. High winds can howl at up to 140 miles per hour, accelerating the deterioration process of your shingles, and can even blow it off. If your home is situated in an area with frequent instances of high winds, then you would certainly benefit from installing reinforced shingles or starter strips that will help prevent roof tear-offs.
Debris From Trees
An expert roofing contractor will tell you that trimming trees surrounding your home will go a long way in preserving the condition of your roofing system. Keep in mind that branches can scrape away at the surface of your shingles, blow off granules, and even puncture your shingles. It’s also possible that overgrown trees can serve as a bridge for pests and small animals to infiltrate your roofing system.
Top Signs of Roof Damage
Vent Damage
Do you notice that the metal or plastic housings on your roof vents are cracked? If so, contact your local roofer immediately for assistance to have your roof replaced. Keep in mind that roof repairs at this point will only delay the inevitable. Just get a roof replacement to avoid recurring repair jobs that will stack up in costs later on.
Damaged or Missing Flashing
Your roofing contractor will install flashing on the parts of your roof that are most vulnerable to leaks, like the chimneys, skylights, vents, rakes, valleys and other openings. When you notice that your flashing is damaged or missing, do not hesitate to call for a roof replacement job immediately since your roof is already compromised.
Roof Sagging
Roof sagging can occur for different reasons, stemming from poor installation methods, water damage, heavy snow accumulation and roof aging. To prevent sagging, follow a routine maintenance schedule to fortify your roof against the elements and reduce the likelihood of water-related issues from surfacing.
Ice Dams
In the winter months, snow can accumulate on your roof and melt once the sun rises. In turn, ice dams form up when the melted snow gathers in your roof eaves and refreezes. If left untreated, the resurgence of ice dams will cause water to infiltrate underneath your shingles. Repetitive defrosting and refreezing of ice can cause water leaks in your home, which will weaken its structure, and cause mold and mildew growth.
Hail Damage
Hail damage is another thing you should watch out for. Hailstones can puncture your roof if they carry enough weight and velocity. You can look out for dents on your flashing or on the edges of your roof which are indicators of hail damage. If you own an asphalt shingle roof or composition shingles, you might spot damage with erratic patterns, which is indicative of hail damage. Remember that signs of damage may not surface until it worsens later on, emphasizing the importance of regular roof maintenance.
Whether you’re looking for a window installer or a professional in emergency roof repair, Villwell Builders, LLC is the expert to trust. We also handle roof replacement, roof repair and installation projects. You can reach us by calling (475) 271-1242 or filling out our convenient contact form. Talk to us today!
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