Keeping your home safe and secure is a top priority for any homeowner. Unfortunately, severe weather can take a toll on the exterior of your house. This is especially true of the roof.
Strong winds and rain can easily cause roof damage. And yet how can you tell when damage has been done? This article takes a look at signs that repairs are needed.
If you live in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions from time to time, keep reading to learn everything you’ll need to know to keep your home warm and dry all year round.
Water Damage on Your Ceiling
One of the easiest ways to detect roof problems such as damaged shingles is when you notice dark water spots on your ceiling or walls. This type of damage typically manifests as discoloration and should alert you to the fact that there are serious problems that need to be addressed as soon as possible.
Water damage on the interior of your home can quickly result in mold problems that can be expensive to repair and create serious health risks.
Increased Energy Bills
Another clue that can tip you off is your energy bill. This is because roof problems such as cracks and holes will cause your HVAC system to not heat or cool your home efficiently.
Keep in mind that not only will this hit you in the wallet, it will also make your HVAC system work harder, thus causing it to wear out faster.
Missing or Damaged Shingles
Damage to the roof of a home is often obvious just with a quick glance. Even from the ground, you can typically identify areas where shingles are missing or have been torn by strong winds.
That’s why it’s important to keep an eye on the condition of your roof and pay attention when things don’t appear quite right. Damage can occur during a single storm or over a period of time. So make a habit of taking a few minutes to survey your roof every few weeks while you’re outside enjoying other activities.
Overflowing or Clogged Gutters
It’s also helpful to inspect your gutters. When they become clogged and start overflowing, this is evidence that you need to take a closer look at your roof.
A clogged gutter might seem like no big deal, but it can result in severe damage to the roof when ignored. After all, an overflow will eventually cause shingles to sag and crack.
Water Damage in the Attic
Lastly, take the time to inspect your attic for water damage. When the roof has been damaged, water will often leak into the attic, where it can cause rot and even lead to mold damage.
Key Tips for Identifying Roof Damage
Keeping your home warm and dry is important, especially in parts of the country that experience severe weather. Fortunately, these tips for identifying roof damage can help you stay ahead of the rain and reduce expensive repair costs.
Click here to see great tips to help you care for your roof.