Pay Attention To Your Roof – Top 5 Signs Your Roof Needs Repaired

You probably don’t pay much attention to your roof, but it is what stands between your family and the elements. It protects you from rain, snow, hail, wind, and the hot Arizona sun. When you are in need of roof repair it can grab your attention in a hurry.

By inspecting for problems regularly and making early roof repairs as needed, you can usually head off major problems. These repairs will be much less costly than a new roof.

1. The number one sign that you need roof repair is a leaking roof.

If you have to put buckets out in your home to catch the drips when it rains, it is pretty obvious that your roof is leaking. But leaks can be more insidious, starting out in your attic. If you are up to the task, you can look inside your attic to check for water damage, such as dark or damp spots, rotten wood, or seeing any daylight through your roof. If these leaks go unnoticed, they can move from your attic to your ceiling. Watch for water marks or peeling paint on the ceiling or walls. Interior water damage can be costly to repair and can also quickly lead to dangerous mold .Roofs are especially prone to leaks around chimneys, roof vents and other openings. Flashings and sealants used to seal around these openings can deteriorate with age.

2. Damaged shingles are another sign your roof needs to be repaired.

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular and affordable roofing materials. Unfortunately, the Arizona sun is very hard on these shingles. If you are able, climb up and look around your roof at least once a year, or after any major storm. If you see broken, cracked, or curling shingles they should be replaced. You may also see missing shingles after a storm. They must be replaced as soon as possible to prevent even more damage, such as water damage to interior dry wall or carpets. As asphalt shingles age the granules from the surface begin to wear away. You can see them in the gutters, downspouts, and maybe even on your driveway. When this happens they need to be replaced.

3. Cracked, broken or missing tiles are a sure sign you need roof repair.

Tile roofs are among the most popular roofing materials in Arizona. They are attractive and perform better under extreme Arizona heat conditions than many other roofing materials. Tile roofs are also fire retardant. Though tile roofs are often warranted up to 50 years, the underlayment beneath them probably won’t last that long. The underlayment is what keeps your roof water tight. Broken or missing tiles will speed the breakdown of the underlayment, so like shingles, tiles also need regular inspection. You can’t walk around on roof tiles without causing damage, so if you can’t see your entire roof from the ladder, it’s best to call a qualified roofer to inspect it. You will also need an experienced roofer to do any tile repair.

4. If you see any sagging areas on your roof they must be repaired.

A sagging roof indicates that there is damage to the wood underneath the shingles. The roof is likely rotting and giving way, so until it is repaired it will continue to worsen. If it is not leaking yet, eventually it will. Water will work its way to the lowest place, then it will pond there and soon begin seep in.

5. If you notice a dramatic change in heating or cooling bills it may be due to your roof.

Be aware that water isn’t the only thing leaking. You are also losing heating and air conditioning through a faulty roof. The savings in energy costs can help offset the cost of roof repair.

If your roof is more than 15 years old, you should consider having it inspected by a qualified roofer. The older your roof is, the more likely it is to have problems that need repairing. Preventative maintenance now can postpone or eliminate the need for a costly roof replacement.

Guest Blog Written By: Alan Monzon

Arizona Roof Rescue
6069 N. 57th Drive
Glendale, Arizona 85301
Office: 602-635-8650
Fax: 602-595-2704