Signs of Roof Damage to Look for the Next Time You’re On Your Roof

Roof Damage to Watch for on Your Structure

Spotting roof damage might seem like a job strictly for professionals, but homeowners and building owners can save money, stress, and potential structural damage by checking for it themselves. CedarTech Roofing, Inc. is always happy to visit your property and provide valuable services and insight for better roof care and maintenance. If you know how to identify visible signs of roof damage, you can request repairs or replacements quickly and minimize water leaks and other issues. From a storm-damaged roof to hail roof damage, you have the ability to survey your shingles, flashing, and other components to determine if you need help from a roofing company. Let us explain how to watch for a leaking roof, damage from strong winds, and other issues.

What Counts as Roof Damage?

Understanding the difference between roof damage and normal wear and tear is crucial for any homeowner or business owner. Wear and tear happens gradually as your roof ages, showing up as faded colors, dark patches, or granule loss on shingles. This is the expected, slow decline of roofing materials over time. In contrast, roof damage is sudden and caused by specific events like storms. Signs of roof damage include missing or cracked shingles, leaks in your attic, or bent flashing. Knowing how to distinguish between these two is vital for insurance claims and warranty coverage. For instance, your homeowner’s insurance will often cover storm damage, but it won’t do the same with issues from simple old age.

Types of Roof Damage You Can Identify

As a homeowner or business owner, you should be aware of the various types of roof damage that can occur over your roof’s lifespan. CedarTech Roofing, Inc. is well-versed in how hail, wind, and other outdoor threats can tear away shingles and cause other issues with roofing components. The leaks and other problems only lead to more structural damage, so you need to spot roof damage as soon as possible to reduce the headaches and expensive repairs. Below, we’ve described several types of roof damage that you can watch for throughout the year:

Ultraviolet (UV) and Heat Damage

Long-term exposure to the sun can wreak havoc on your roof. UV rays break down roofing materials over time, causing shingles to crack, fade, or warp. This is especially true in climates with high heat and relentless sun. To combat this, proper attic ventilation is vital because it helps lower the temperature of your roof. Catching sun damage early through regular checks is also crucial. It allows you to address minor issues before they turn into major problems, ultimately extending the lifespan of your roof.

Hail Damage

Hailstorms often leave roofs vulnerable to damage, particularly when hailstones strike asphalt shingles. These impacts can create dents, cracks, or even small holes that may not be obvious from the ground. Over time, this damage can weaken your roof’s structure. After a hailstorm, you need to check for warning signs like missing shingle granules in gutters or bruised spots on the roof. If you spot any issues, reach out to our trusted roofing team for repairs and contact your insurance provider to start a claim. Quick action can help avoid bigger problems later.

Wind Damage

Strong storms and hurricanes can bring powerful winds that are notorious for damaging roofs. These gusts can get underneath shingles, lifting them up or tearing them off completely. This leaves the underlying structure of your roof exposed to rain and other elements. You might find loose shingles in your yard or notice gaps on your roof after a storm. If you see any of these red flags, it’s important to get a professional inspection and roof repairs right away to prevent leaks and more serious structural issues down the line.

Leaks and Water Damage

Water seeping in from a damaged roof can cause many problems, from stained ceilings to a compromised attic space. This unwelcome moisture is often from compromised flashing, missing shingles, or gutters overflowing with debris. Ignoring these early signs allows mold to flourish and structural rot to set in, creating much larger headaches for your home. If you spot any damp patches or discoloration, don’t hesitate to schedule professional help. We can pinpoint the source, assess the damage, and provide a repair plan that stops minor issues from escalating into substantial expenses.

Damaged Flashing

Flashing acts as a vital seal around critical roof areas like chimneys, vents, and skylights. However, this protective metal can degrade over time due to weather or improper installation. When flashing rusts, cracks, or pulls away, it creates openings for water to seep beneath your shingles, inviting leaks and potential structural harm. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, contact a roofing professional as quickly as possible. Addressing these issues quickly is crucial to maintaining a watertight roof and avoiding much larger, more expensive repairs in the near future.

Trust CedarTech Roofing, Inc. for Professional Solutions

After spotting roof damage, your best action is to enlist the help of a seasoned roofing professional like CedarTech Roofing, Inc. We can help you restore your roof’s condition so it protects everything underneath. Get in touch with us today if you identify roof damage. We’ll respond promptly and repair the damage.