Roof Inspection – Deterioration Warning Signs

The roof of your home protects your family and the entire house against nature’s elements. Roofing systems require regular maintenance and care to ensure they function correctly and last as long as possible. Even the best-built roofs will eventually wear out. That’s why it is important to have a regular schedule for a roof inspection. This is so you can detect the signs of deterioration early on.

How Often Should You Inspect Your Roofing System?

Regular interior and exterior inspections can help to minimize roof damage by detecting any minor issues. Roof inspections in Greenville should be completed by homeowners at least twice a year, in the spring and fall. Checking your roof is also a good idea after a windstorm or a particularly harsh winter storm. Roof membranes and flashing can be damaged by large ice accumulations and high winds. Regular inspections can reveal storm-related damage, which may not have been initially noticed.

Regularly performing a thorough inspection will help you save money.

What to Look for

Start in your attic. Look for sagging roof decks with a flashlight. Look for signs of leaks or water damage, as well as any light coming through the roof.

Pay attention to damaged flashings, missing shingles, and shingles which are curling or blistering. Under eaves and under overhangs, inspect for any damage that could indicate a water leak. This is especially important at roof points that do not conform to the normal roof plane such as skylights or dormers. You’re not a fan of climbing up a ladder to your roof? Instead use binoculars to find problem areas..

Here are eight signs you might need a new roofing system:

1. Curling or Cupping Shingles

Curling can be a problem that is caused by a variety of factors, including improper storage, incorrect installation, or poor materials. Curled shingles are less able to prevent water from leaking through your roof. This could cause structural damage.

2. Missing Shingles

The shingles on your roof will only protect you if all of them are intact. When shingles are missing, they create easy openings for water to enter your home. Strong winds, falling branches, or repeated freezing and thawing can cause shingles to fall off the roof. Take special notice if you find that your shingles are falling off for no apparent reason. They may be worn out.

3. Shingles that are deteriorating

All roofing materials eventually degrade. Roof shingles will often not deteriorate at the same time. It is easy to spot shingles that are deteriorating. Replace shingles that show signs of splitting, peeling, or curling.

4. Blistering Shingles

Blistering occurs when moisture or gas builds up in a shingle. Blistering can be caused by a poorly-ventilated attic, a buildup of leaves or debris, or even just the natural aging of shingles. Blistering can be worsened by intense sunlight.

5. Damaged Flashing

The flashing is a metal sheeting that is installed at an angle on your roof to prevent water from entering. Flashing is most commonly found around your sewer vent pipe or chimney.

6. Rotting

The problem of rotting roofs should be obvious, and you must act immediately. The rest of the shingles could soon follow if some shingles rot. You should replace all the shingles rather than waste time, money, and energy replacing individual shingles.

7. Poor Workmanship

Some roof problems can be attributed to poor workmanship. Poor workmanship can be identified by excessive and obvious patching, shingles that don’t match, or more than one layer. In the past, installing new shingles on top of old shingles was a common practice. This practice saved money and time but is now considered unacceptable and can void your warranty. A poor roof installation can have a shorter lifespan and even cause serious water damage.

8. Age

Age is the most important factor to consider when replacing a roof. It’s time to replace your roof if it is older than 20 years.

It is vital to have a healthy roof for your house. This will keep you and your family safe. You can take immediate action if you notice any signs of damage or wear by performing regular inspections.

Have you noticed that your roof is deteriorating? It’s probably time to have a roof inspection or even a new roof. Call KM Roof and Home Repair now.

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KM Roof and Home Repair
Greenville, SC 29609
864-990-3252
www.kmroofers.com

Areas Served: Piedmont SC, Fountain Inn SC, Simpsonville SC, Greer SC, Taylors SC, Greenville SC, Travelers Rest SC