Sometimes, damage to your roof may remain unnoticed for some time until heavy rain or a storm causes a leak.
If you believe your roof may be damaged, there are a few steps you can take to narrow down the source of the problem. It’s never a good idea to get onto your home’s damaged roof, however, a number of things can be safely inspected from ground level or inside the home. Here are some ways you can find out if your roof is damaged.
Checking the Interior
Thoroughly inspect each room of your house and check the ceiling for any signs of moisture. Don’t forget to look inside closets or pantries as well. Keep an eye out for any signs of moisture on the ceiling like peeling paint, stains, or mold growth. Additional common points of entry for water can be found around chimneys or air vents. Water can also cause the drywall to warp and become brittle. If the leak is active, you may be able to hear a dripping sound as well. If any signs like these are found, it’s a good idea to contact a professional for an emergency roof repair before the damage gets any worse. A water leak can wreak havoc on a roof’s decking and supportive framework. If the damage is extensive enough, it could end up being more cost-effective to replace the roof altogether. For this reason, it’s always best to address roof damage the moment you notice it.
What to Look for in the Attic
Roof damage can often be located from within the attic space. Look for any signs of visible light through the roof which could indicate a potential point of entry for moisture or pests. Some damage is easy to see such as cracks in the rafters or rotting wood. Other times, the problem could be more subtle such as improper attic ventilation. If moisture is allowed to build up in your attic space, it could cause the roof decking to begin to separate and sag. Additionally, you may see signs of corrosion in the roof coming from vents, pipes, or nails. In the winter, poor attic ventilation can cause ice dams to occur on the roof as well. Ice dams are capable of causing serious damage to your gutter system and can cause a leak in the home by keeping water trapped on the roof.
Checking the Exterior
Outside the home, walk around the perimeter of your house and take note of what you see. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and potentially enter through a breach in your fascia. You may see water stains on your siding or pools of standing water on the ground if there’s an issue with drainage. Sometimes, heavy rains can overwhelm gutter systems which don’t have enough downspouts installed. During storms, debris can get caught in the gutter system as well which can make the issue worse. Check the ground for indications of storm damage like broken roofing shingles or granules. If you find any issues, it’s probably time to contact a professional for assistance.
Let a Trusted Roofing Contractor Help
Performing roof repair yourself is dangerous, challenging work. A roofing professional will be able to find any damage safely and quickly. The flashing around chimneys and roof edges will be checked for corrosion along with any roof penetrations like skylights or roof-mounted satellite dishes. Your roofing contractor will also check the integrity of your gutter system and remove any debris. It’s recommended to schedule roof inspections bi-annually and invest in an ongoing maintenance plan to ensure the gutters are cleaned on a regular basis. Additional roof maintenance duties your contractor will take care of should include:
- Keeping the roof clean and removing any debris
- Preventative maintenance and repairs
- Keep penetration points sealed and secured
- Maintain an accurate log of all maintenance
It’s always best to rely on experts to perform roofing inspections and repairs. Professionals will back up their work with warranties and guarantees which will save you money in the long run. Plus, if you end up having to file an insurance claim for future roof damage, you’ll know for sure the repair cost is covered. If you need reliable emergency roof repair for your Massachusetts home fast, call O’LYN Roofing today. For over 40 years, our experienced team of roofers has worked to provide superior roofing solutions to our valued customers. As an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, we bring the level of commitment and customer care you’d come to expect in professional roof installation and repair. We’re happy to discuss your roofing concerns with you and provide a free estimate up-front.
