Roof damage isn’t always an easy thing to spot. There can be clear signs that your roof is damaged, such as missing shingles or visible holes, but there are also some less obvious signs you need to look out for to know if your roof is damaged and may need replacing. Here are our top five signs you may have hidden roof damage.
1. The Sound of the Wind
If you hear a strange whistling or hissing noise throughout your house when all of your windows and doors are shut, this likely means air is leaking in from outside — and it may just be through your roof. A significant draft can pose a health risk in winter time or if you live in a colder climate. Even if the draft is relatively small, it can be a nuisance and will require a professional roofing expert to locate the damage and offer advice on repair or replacement.
2. Black or Dark Spots on Your Roof
Black or dark spots on your roof may not seem all that alarming, but it’s an issue that will continuously worsen over time and may lead to serious roof damage in the future. It’s important to get these dark spots fixed because they can spread into larger leaks and lead to roof mold. Dark spots can also be difficult to notice in the first place, especially if you have a dark-colored roof. A closer inspection may require you to climb onto your roof. However, we recommend you not do this yourself. Instead, enlist a professional roofing expert with the proper tools and experience to do so.
3. Damaged Shingles
If you’re looking at the right angle, it can be easy to spot missing or even chipped shingles, but it’s often not as easy to spot buckling or cracked ones. Because of this, it’s possible this damage can go unnoticed for a long time. Having a roofing expert inspect your roof at least once a year is a useful and potentially cost-saving way to determine how your roof has been weathering the seasons.
4. Finding Nails and Uncommon Roof Particles
If you spot nails along the sides of your walls, or in corners on the floor, it may not be obvious right away that this is a sign of roof damage. Loose nails have to end up somewhere, and it’s likely you’ll find them inside along the walls, outside beside your home, or in the gutters lining your roof. Check your gutters for nails and any unusual shingle particles, as this is a clear indication that the shingles are beginning to wear and need to be replaced.
5. Wild Animals on Your Roof
This may seem like an odd way to spot roof damage, but having a wild animal on your roof, scurrying and scratching around, can be a serious problem. Wild animals tend to retreat and hide in warm confined places, such as a small hole in your roof or underneath a loose shingle. These unwanted guests won’t go away on their own, and every day they outstay their welcome, they could be doing further damage to your roof.
Replace Your Roof with Thompson Creek
A proactive approach is always best. It’s important for homeowners to always keep an eye on the condition of their roof. Not only does a good roof protect the home but it keeps the people who live within its walls safe. If you need to replace a roof, working with an established professional will help ensure that your roof is properly installed and safe for you and your family. For a dependable and safe roof, call the experts at Thompson Creek today.