For homeowners, there are many things to keep up with in order to ensure your home stays in the best shape it can. It can be overwhelming and hard to remember all the things you should be aware of so that a small problem doesn’t turn into a large expense. Roofing may not be something you often think about, but it is fundamental for your home. A bad roof can lead to a myriad of problems.
Consider the following points, and check if your roof may be experiencing these problems.
The Material
The type of material your roof is made out of also plays a large role. Tile and slate roofing material is the most common type, and it can last for 50 years or more with inspections from time to time. Wood, metal, and shake roofing lasts about half that time before it needs major work done. Start by asking yourself what material your roof is made out of, and then assess how long it has been since it was last inspected.
The Age of Your Roof
It may seem obvious, but if you are reading this and realize you have never thought to inspect your roof since you moved in, you may wish to do so. If you have never had it inspected, it would be a good idea to do so to determine if anything does need to be done, or set expectations for when you should plan for work to be done.
Missing Tiles
If tiles have fallen off of your roof during high winds, and bad storms, that is a sign that your roof is compromised. Take a look at your roof each morning before you leave, especially after a bad storm, to catch missing tiles or shingles before it becomes a bigger problem.
Dark Spots or Stains
If you see discoloration of your roof, that might be the sign of algae growing and not just a wet spot after a storm. If the dark spot stays for longer than normal for water to evaporate, you will want to get a closer look. Algae can be removed rather easily with a blend of water and bleach.
Curled or Cracked Shingles.
Clear damage like this is another good sign that your roof is in need of some attention. Sometimes these types of damages aren’t being caused by storms. Especially when it comes to shingles that are curling, that could be a sign of bad ventilation.
Consider Your Neighbor’s Roof
One last tip is to be aware of your neighbor’s roof. Most homes surrounding yours will have been built around the same time, and have experienced the same weather conditions. If you see a neighbor replacing their roof, you may wish to take a look at your own.
Catching roofing problems early can save you time, money, and a very big headache in the long run. A small problem with your roof doesn’t mean that your entire roof will need to be replaced, but it could lead to a much bigger problem down the road. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.