The outside of your house, the roof, does a fantastic job of protecting your home from the elements. We tend to have unpredictable weather in Houston, so it is just as important to know, and look for signs that show you have a damaged roof. If you ignore, or delay taking care of repairing your roof, it could cost you hundreds, if not thousands in repairs, and also, more importantly put your family in harm’s way. Let us have a look at seven signs that Houston homeowners should pay attention to.
1. Missing or Damaged Shingles
The most obvious signs of missing or compromised shingles are also some of the easiest indicators to notice. If you venture out and around your property, there is an excellent chance that you see shingles that have been ripped off in high winds. If you cannot find missing shingles, look for cracked, curled, or buckled shingles. Look for anything that just looks “off.” All of these shapes and forms create possible breaches during a storm which can then create eventual leaks. Repairs for roofs in Houston are a quick process in order to replace 2 or 3 run down shingles. However, if you witness multiple busted shingles, there could be concern for roof issues overall.
2. Granules in Gutters or Downspouts
Asphalt shingles are installed with granules to protect the shingle from harmful UV rays from the sun. Over time, your roof will lose granules which will end up in the gutters. It is established that losing some granules is a natural process of aging. If you see large amounts of granules coming off the roof, however, it may indicate that the roof is at the end of its life cycle. If your asphalt shingles have lost all the granules, they are in a high risk of being damaged without the granule protection.
3. Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls
Water stains are a sign of your roof leaking. If the ceiling or wall has any discoloration, there is a possibility that a roof leak has occurred, especially after rains. Roof leaks can form small puddles that can be hard to see and locate. Being aware of the evidence of water stains is essential. If you notice water stains, it’s time to call a roof inspector in Houston. The roof inspector will find the leak and identify where the leak is running down before you have water issues again.
4. Sagging or Drooping Roof Areas
A sagging roof is one of the worst problems to have. Sagging roofs can happen for a variety of reasons: an issue with water, a weak roof structure or failure, or excessive weight on the roof can all contribute to a sagging roof. If you have seen some sagging or drooping areas on your roof – this could mean potential structural damage. This is definitely not something you should dismiss or ignore; you definitely want a professional to inspect your roof immediately.
5. Increased Energy Bills
Have you received one of your energy bills, and then realized that it had noticeably risen? Your roof might be at fault. If a roof is dilapidated, it can lead to air escaping, which means your HVAC system will work harder to heat, or cool, your home to a comfortable temperature. If you are unable to pinpoint any other solution as to why you’ve seen an increase in your energy bills, it may be handy to have your roof inspected. This is one of the more understated signs that your roof could be damaged.
6. Damaged Flashing
Flashing is the material that will cover the seams and joints of your roof- covering the seams around all the flashing points, such as the chimney, vents and skylights- and if it is no longer intact, it can be a way for water to enter into your home. Be on the lookout for cracks, rust or any missing flashing. In order to maintain a watertight roof, you want to have intact flashing. If your flashing is damaged, then you will need to look for Houston roof repairs.
7. Algae, Moss, or Fungi Growth
If you have noticed signs of algae, moss, or fungi on your roof this means that there is some moisture present on your roof. For now, this might seem like a small concern, but keep in mind that these fungus organisms can hold moisture and adversely affect the structural integrity of your roof. Algae and moss can also indicate that you may have drainage issues with your roof. A professional can remove the organic growth and manage drainage issues properly.
When to Call for Houston Roof Repair Services
When you see any of these roof damage signs, it is important to respond quickly. Do not wait until the worst-case scenario. You can rely on a professional roof inspection Houston to observe the storm damage condition and inform you if the roof deterioration is repairable or you will need to replace the roof. If it is an easy repair of just putting on some new shingles, save yourself the time, money and stress of waiting to deal with your roof immediately.
You certainly don’t want to risk the comfort and safety of a damaged roof for the sake of your home. If you believe you have roof damage, call us today for a free roof inspection and no-obligation estimate. A team of roofing professionals are ready to provide the best Houston roof repair service to protect your home.
