Your roof goes through a lot. From high winds to severe storms and everything in between, your roof can develop damage over time. It will happen to virtually every roof over time, and knowing the most common signs of roof damage can let you call for help before more serious and expensive damage is done.
In our latest blog post, the experienced team at Perry’s Roofing will walk you through the most common indicators of roof damage—some easy to spot, others more subtle.
Common Types of Roof Damage and How to Identify Them
Missing or Damaged Shingles
Asphalt roofs are the most common type of roof. They’re cost-effective, durable, and long-lasting—but they’re not invincible. The most common sign of asphalt roof damage is missing or damaged shingles. Asphalt shingles are layered on top of the roof to create a waterproof barrier, protecting against rain, wind, and sun exposure. When shingles are cracked, curled, or torn away, that protective layer is compromised, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks and further deterioration.
How to Spot Missing or Damaged Shingles
When asphalt roof issues develop, homeowners will typically find shingles scattered around their property. They look like They look like flat, rectangular pieces of material with a sandpaper-like surface.
You might also notice bare patches on your roof where shingles have come loose, or see shingles that are curling at the edges or appear discolored. In some cases, damaged shingles may still be in place but are cracked, brittle, or missing granules. Regularly walking the perimeter of your home or performing a visual inspection from the ground can help you catch these warning signs early.
Damaged Flashing
Roof flashing is another protective measure against water intrusion and water damage. Whether it’s chimney flashing, valley flashing, pipe flashing, drip edge flashing, or eave flashing, it’s an important part of any roofing system. If your flashing is experiencing damage, it will be easier for water and other types of moisture to make their way beneath your shingles and into the structure of your roof. Over time, this can lead to rot, mold, and serious structural problems if not addressed.
How to Spot Damaged Flashing
Depending on the type of flashing, you might need to look in several different spots. Check around chimneys, vents, skylights, valleys, and along roof edges for signs of rust, warping, or separation from the surrounding materials. You may notice lifted or bent metal, gaps where flashing should be sealed, or water stains near these areas inside your attic or ceiling.
Water Stains
Water stains can be indicative of different types of damage. For example, a water stain appearing around your bathroom fan can indicate there’s a leak coming from the vent cap, while a stain on the ceiling or running down the wall can suggest a roof leak has made its way into the attic or insulation. No matter where you see a water stain, though, it’s a sure sign of a leak somewhere within your roofing system.
How to Spot Water Stains
A water stain will often appear as brown, yellow, or rust-colored spots and may grow larger over time if the leak persists. Even if the stain seems small, it can point to a larger issue hidden behind your walls or ceiling. If you notice new or worsening water stains, it’s important to schedule a professional inspection with your local roofing company to identify the source and prevent further damage.
Moss or Algae Growth
Moss and algae thrive in damp, dark environments. Certain areas of the roof, like those that don’t receive as much sunlight or have poor drainage, provide moss and algae with the ideal conditions to grow and spread.
Moss is dangerous because it can lift and separate shingles on your roof as it grows. Algae, on the other hand, can leave dark streaks behind that damage your home’s appearance and aesthetics.
How to Spot Moss and Algae Growth
Moss and algae typically appear as green patches or dark streaks across your roof. With a visual inspection, you can find affected areas and schedule a professional inspection to determine the extent of the damage. Catching this growth early allows for safe removal and professional cleaning to extend the life of your roof.
The Importance of Prompt Roof Repairs
The sooner you’re able to have your roof repaired, the lower the roof repair costs will be and the less likely you are to deal with interior damage or structural issues. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against local weather, and if it’s dealing with issues, it won’t be able to do its job properly.
Over time, even minor damage can lead to more serious problems like water infiltration, mold growth, or weakened structural components. Staying on top of roof repairs not only protects your home but also helps extend the life of your roof. When in doubt, it’s always worth having a trusted local roofing contractor take a closer look.
What to Look for in a Residential Roofing Contractor
When choosing a residential roofing contractor, it’s important to look beyond just the lowest price. A trustworthy company should be fully licensed and insured, with a proven track record of quality workmanship and satisfied customers. You should also look for a team that communicates clearly, provides detailed estimates, and stands behind their work with solid warranties.
Additionally, experience with local weather conditions and roofing codes is also a major plus, as it ensures your roof will be built to last. Most importantly, you want a contractor who treats your home with care and respects your time, property, and investment.
Not all roofing companies are created equal. At Perry’s Roofing, we believe that you deserve the best; and that’s exactly what we offer on every appointment. Whether you need to install a new roof or schedule an inspection, we’ll make sure you receive the roofing services you need in Westchester County.
Trusted Roof Repair Services in Pleasantville, NY
When your home is in need of local roofing services, there’s only one name you need to know: Perry’s Roofing. Our roofing specialists proudly provide local homeowners with the top-quality solutions they need to stay safe across all four seasons. Whether you need a bit of roof maintenance or need to schedule a complete roof replacement project, we’re the team to call.
We know that rain, snow, wind, and sun can all take their toll on a roofing system; our team helps make sure you’re prepared for anything. Contact Perry’s Roofing today to request a free estimate for Pleasantville, NY, roof repair services.
Need Any Roofing Help?
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