Roof problems can be a nightmare for homeowners. It’s your home’s first line of defense against the elements, and even the smallest problem can get worse. Ignoring a damaged roof can lead to costly repairs later on, so it’s a good idea to take care of these issues quickly. Not only will it save you money, but it will also preserve your home’s structural integrity.
Common Types of Roof Shingle Damage
Some of the common types of roof damage include the following:
- Blistering — This is caused by trapped moisture or excessive heat. It creates small raised areas on the shingle’s surface, which can eventually pop and lead to more extensive damage or even leaks.
- Cracking or splitting — Weather exposure can cause shingles to crack or split over time, which can affect their ability to protect the roof and leave it more vulnerable to water infiltration.
- Curling at the edges — Roof shingles can start to curl upwards at the edges as they age, but it can also be caused by moisture or even poor installation. This will reduce their ability to create an effective barrier against the elements.
- Missing granules — Granules protect your roof shingles from UV radiation and weathering. But when they fall off because of age or impacts, it can leave them exposed to sun damage.
- Wind damage — Strong winds can lift shingles or tear them off completely, which can leave parts of the roof exposed. It can also make your roof more susceptible to leaks or structural damage.
It’s important to identify and repair shingle damage early, because it can keep you from having to make expensive repairs. Inspecting your roof at least twice a year (preferably between spring and fall) can help you find any potential problems before they get worse. Look for bald spots, nails that are popping out, warped or buckled shingles, as well as mold and mildew growth.
What You Should Look for During a Roof Inspection
Regular maintenance can go a long way when it comes to extending the life of your roof and keeping potential problems from getting worse. You should do a visual inspection of your roof at least twice a year (preferably during the spring and fall), and you should look for the following:
- Damaged or missing shingles.
- Debris accumulation.
- Proper drainage in gutters and downspouts.
- Signs of wear or aging.
Spring inspections can be helpful in identifying damage caused by winter weather, while fall inspections can prepare your roof for the colder months.
How Often You Should Replace Your Roof Shingles
The lifespan of roof shingles will depend on the type of material from which they were made. Asphalt shingles will usually last between 15 and 30 years. But several factors can influence their longevity. Some of them can include the following:
- Climate — Extreme weather conditions (such as constant exposure to sun, rain, or wind) can cause roof shingles to deteriorate more quickly.
- Maintenance — Regular roof inspections and timely repairs can go a long way toward extending the life of your roof shingles.
- Quality of Installation — Making sure that your roof shingles have been properly installed by an experienced professional will go a long way toward improving its performance.
You should inspect your roof on a regular basis, especially if you live in an area that experiences extreme weather conditions. You should also replace any shingles that have been compromised, because it will prevent more extensive damage to your roof structure. If your roof is more than 20 years old and most of the shingles are deteriorated, it’s probably a good time to have it replaced.
When You Should Hire a Professional for Roof Repair
You might be able to do a DIY fix for minor issues, but there are times when it’s a good idea to contact a professional. You should think about contacting a roofer if it’s close to the end of its life or if you notice any of the following issues:
- A large number of damaged or missing shingles.
- Sagging areas on your roof.
- Signs of water damage inside your home.
You should also think about how comfortable you are with working on the roof as well as on the complexity of the repair. If there’s a chance that you can cause additional damage or aren’t sure about any part of the repair, you should have a professional take care of it for you.
If you’re looking for one of the best roofers in Corpus Christi, be sure to reach out to Bayfront Roofing.