Your roof is a vital part of your home structure and protects you and your family from the elements. According to IBISWorld, the United States roofing industry market size was around $56 billion in 2022. It’s such a lucrative industry because professional roofers are always needed for handling roof repairs and replacements. You should never skimp on regular maintenance, so here are some signs it’s time to call for a professional roofer.
1. Mold in the Attic
Mold in the attic usually results from a problem with your roof. If there are cracks, holes, or other vulnerable spots in the roof where moisture can come in, it can quickly become a hotbed for mold production. It doesn’t take long for mold and mildew to take root in your house and can do so in as little as 24 hours in a wet environment, according to Qipa. Mold isn’t good for your health, so handle any roof leaks as soon as possible.
2. Daylight Coming into the Attic
When you go into the attic, do you notice light shining through where it shouldn’t? Unless you have a small window in your attic, there’s no reason to see sunlight or moonlight creeping in. If you do, there are cracks and other holes in your roof. Such cracks make it easy for moisture and pests to come in, so get those roof repairs immediately.
3. Constant Leaks
A leaky roof is a common occurrence for many homeowners. You should never let a leak go, as it can cause extensive water damage to your home. In addition to the mold and mildew mentioned earlier, leaks can affect your overall foundation. When your roof always leaks, clearly there are holes, cracks, or other foundation issues in the roof that will keep getting worse over time. You know there’s a roof leak if you notice stains on the ceiling or the upper walls of your house.
4. Sagging
A strong roof should never sag. When you go outside, take a closer look at the roof. If you notice an indent in the middle, that means the underlying structure is weakening. If you don’t have roof repairs to deal with that situation immediately, the sagging roof may eventually collapse. A collapsed roof will not only cost money to replace, but it’s also clearly a safety hazard for you and your family.
5. Increased Energy Bills
Have your utility bills seemed higher than normal lately? Unfortunately, a roof with structural problems can play a big role in that. When your roof has holes or cracks, it affects your home’s insulation. Air can easily escape as you warm or cool your house and put more work on your HVAC system.
6. Missing or Damaged Shingles
Do you notice problems with your asphalt shingles? When you look up at your roof from the outside, do some shingles appear to curl or turn dark? If so, some metal shingles may be suffering from water damage. Hail impacts can also damage these shingles and knock many of them off the roof entirely. When shingles fall off the roof, it leaves a vulnerable spot for holes and cracks to form, as there’s little protection from the elements. It can also make it easier for outside pests like squirrels or raccoons to cut through the roof and nest in the attic.
7. Clogged Gutters
Do your gutters appear clogged with debris from your shingles? When asphalt shingles become worn out or damaged, they may shed debris that will end up falling into your gutters. It’s vital to regularly clean and check out your gutters for this issue.
While your roof protects your home, you must also do your part as a homeowner to protect your roof as well. One of the best ways to do so is with regular roof repairs and maintenance. There are many reasons why you may have to call a roofing professional, ranging from damaged shingles to cracks to ongoing leaks. Your roof has many vulnerabilities to deal with over time, and letting these repairs go can result in more damage. You may also need roof replacement sooner than you normally would. If you need help with regular roof care, contact Weather Shield Home Experts today for roof repairs.