5 Signs You May Need a New Roof

Are there hidden dangers right above your head? 

Whether you are a homeowner who wants to keep your family safe, a business owner who wants to protect your investment, or a real estate investor who wants to build equity, you need to know the signs of a damaged roof.  

The quicker you can identify and correct any problems, the safer the people under the roof and the better you can protect any investment. 

Warning Signs for Your Roof 

The first step to protecting your home is to be proactive. Keep your eyes open for any of these warning signs. Contact a roofer immediately for a full evaluation if you see any of the following:  

A damaged or compromised roof allows water to seep into the home or business. This can lead to water or signs of water on the ceiling, damaged insulation, and damage to the structure, such as rotting wood or sagging drywall. 

A sagging roof, or a dip in the flat planes of the roof structure, is a clear sign of structural damage to the home or business. There can be several possible causes of the damage, including water damage, excessive weight on the roof, or damage to the support structure.  

This will depend on the roofing material, but keep an eye out for signs such as curls, bare patches in your shingle granules, missing or damaged shingles, and cracks or tears in the roofing material. This damage can expose the underlying materials to the elements and lead to more severe damage to the home's structure. It’s a good idea to do a quick, visual inspection after any severe weather. 

Mold and mildew in your home, on the ceiling or walls, can be a sign of damage to the roof. This can be caused by moisture seeping into the home from the roof, excess moisture in the home, or poor attic ventilation. Mold and mildew can be a danger to you and the people in the home or structure. Immediately contact a professional for an assessment if you see mold or mildew. 

Age is one of the most obvious signs that a roof needs replacement. Every roof and roofing material will have a lifespan. Ask a roofing professional what the lifespan is for your roof, and as the roof ages, you should conduct more frequent and extensive maintenance checks for damage or signs the roof needs replacement. 

Don’t Wait for Disaster to Strike 

It’s a good idea to have a roofing professional review your roof once a year. You should also do an assessment of the roof quarterly and after severe weather. Keep in mind that your roof can be dangerous. You shouldn’t climb on the roof unless you take safety steps and are confident in your ability to navigate hazards safely.  

In addition, you should keep an eye out for the warning signs in this checklist. At the first signs of any problems, contact a professional like your local certified CertainTeed retailer or distributor.