Annual roof inspections help roofers identify developing issues and solve them. They also give roofing companies insight into the age and remaining lifespans of these all-important structures. If you’re on deck for a roof inspection, the following five issues could indicate you need a new roof.
1. Widespread Granule Loss
Dark and pebble-like, shingle granules give asphalt shingles UV protection. They also direct runoff toward gutters. As roofs age, their shingle granules gradually fall off. If you have an older roof with significant wear, you might find these granules at the base of your downspouts or around your home’s perimeter.
Asphalt shingles with missing granules have lost a good portion of their moisture and flexibility. These changes make them less resilient to temperature extremes and temperature fluctuations. If your roofer notices widespread granule loss during your roof inspection, they may recommend replacement.
2. Multiple Curled, Buckled, or Missing Shingles
Strong winds and heavy precipitation can lift shingles or cause problems like cracking, bending, or curling. While having one or two weather-damaged or missing shingles is a fixable issue, shingle problems that affect large sections of your roof indicate the need for replacement.
3. Roof Sections That Feel Springy Underfoot
When inspecting your roof, your roofer will mount it and look for sections that feel soft, springy, or uneven underfoot. Residential roofs are multi-layer systems with each layer protecting the one beneath it from moisture damage. When shingles, moisture barriers, and underlayment fail, roofs can sustain moisture damage down to their substrates. If your roof has saggy, sunken areas and soft spots, you may need a roof replacement, new roof decking, and repairs for any rough framing materials affected by wood rot.
4. Separation at the Roof’s Valleys
Roof valleys are places where two sections of roofing meet. They’re among the most vulnerable parts of roofs and the most likely to leak. If your roof’s valleys have begun to pull apart, the best way to protect your home from water damage is by scheduling a roof replacement.
5. Leaky Protrusions
All residential roofs have protrusions. Common protrusions include exhaust vents, skylights, and chimneys. Much like roof valleys, roofing protrusions and the areas around them are highly vulnerable to leaks. Evidence of leaks and water damage around these elements could indicate the need for repairs. However, when moisture damage caused by leaky protrusions affects roof decking, rough framing, and significant portions of the building interior, replacing roofs is often the best choice.
Not all problems found during roof inspections call for immediate roof replacement. When these and other issues are found and repaired early on, homeowners can often delay the high costs of total tear-downs. By scheduling a roof inspection once a year, you can make sure that minor problems never have the chance to spiral out of control.
When you need a roof replacement in Mill Creek, WA and want superior results, get in touch with North Creek Roofing.
