Over the years, our roofs require regular maintenance to keep them in top condition. Ignoring signs that your roof needs repairing can lead to a whole myriad of problems, from structural issues to expensive repairs. While many of us take our roofs for granted every day, they play an important role in our lives - our roofs protect us from the elements and keep us sheltered and safe no matter the weather.
The key to keeping your roof in top condition is to catch any problems early, and this means keeping an eye out for any of the tell-tale signs that your roof is in need of some TLC. To give you a helping hand, we’ve listed the signs that your roof needs repairing below. From cracked shingles to attic leaks, there’s lots to look out for.
How often should I inspect my roof for problems?
Firstly, let’s start with the basics: how often should you actually check your roof for potential problems? While many of us forget to check our roofs regularly, it’s actually an important part of the maintenance process. The best way to maintain your roof is to inspect your roof regularly yourself for any signs of damage and wear and tear, and have a professional inspect your roof regularly too. Remember, you should never put yourself at risk trying to inspect your roof; instead, you should get in touch with a reliable roofing company to safely check your roof at height for you.
Signs you need professional roofing contractors
When checking your roof for problems, here are the following signs to look out for:
Cracked or broken shingles
Cracked, broken or missing shingles are a big sign that your roof needs some extra care and maintenance - if you have lots of missing or broken shingles, it could also be a sign that your roof needs replacing altogether. Cracks in your roof shingles allow water to travel between them, leading to leaks and other problems. If you notice any missing or cracked shingles or ones with curling corners or edges, you should get them repaired immediately.
The best way to keep an eye on your shingles is to carry out regular visual inspections yourself. You can spot any missing or curling shingles from the ground; take the time to have a good look at your roof every so often and notify your roofing company of any missing or damaged shingles as you spot them.
Your roof is sagging
If your roof noticeably sags anywhere, you should get it inspected by a professional immediately. A sagging roof is a definite cause for concern and it likely won’t be long before you have a leak on your hands. A sagging roof could also be an indication that there’s a structural issue with your home’s foundation - something that can be extremely dangerous and requires professional attention. There are lots of reasons why your roof could be sagging and the best way to get to the root of the problem and ensure you and your property are safe is to call up a reliable roofing company to inspect the problem for you.
Your roof is covered in algae, moss and wet spots
Algae growth isn’t just visually unappealing; it could be a sign of a deeper underlying problem too. Over time, our roofs collect debris that can provide the perfect breeding ground for algae, moss and mould. Today, some roofing materials have anti-algae properties that keep your roof looking new, but for those that don’t, the buildup of moss and mould should be removed regularly to keep your roof in top condition.
When checking your roof for missing shingles or signs of sagging, make sure you keep an eye on the colour too. If you notice any dark spots, patches or streaks, this could be an indication that there is moisture building on your roof. Algae growth is also a sign of moisture - if you notice any, make sure you get your roof inspected and repaired to extend its lifespan.
You’ve noticed leaks in your attic
Attic leaks and ceiling or wall stains are always a cause for concern. While a leak in your attic could simply be an issue with the flashing which can be repaired, you should never ignore a leak no matter how big or small. Water stains can be a sign of damp or an indication that there’s a larger underlying leak which requires attention. Attic and roof leaks will only worsen over time, and therefore it’s important to catch them as early as possible.
If you suspect a leak or you’ve noticed water damage in your attic, it’s best to get your roof inspected by a professional.
Your roof is over 25 years old
Unfortunately, roofs don’t last forever and eventually, you’ll need to replace yours. Generally, roofs have a lifespan of anywhere between 20 to 30 years. If your roof is nearly 25 years old or you don’t really know the true date of when the roof was last replaced, it’s time to get a professional inspection and assessment. An old, outdated roof could be putting you at risk. Even if it looks fine on the outside and you’re unable to spot any noticeable issues, it’s still crucial to get your roof properly checked over if it’s on the older side.
A professional roofing company will be able to tell you when it’s time for a roof replacement and prevent any costly repairs down the line that could occur from having an older roof.
There’s a sudden spike in your energy bills
Unusually high energy bills don’t always mean that you have a faulty boiler - in fact, a sudden spike in your energy bills could be an indication that there are holes in your roof. Heat rises, which means we lose most of the heat in our homes through the roof - and this will only worsen if you have any holes or leaks. Cool or warm air could be leaking out of your roof, resulting in higher and more expensive energy bills. This could also be down to a ventilation issue; the best way to get to the root of the problem is to call up a professional roofing contractor as soon as possible to assess the issue for you.
Blistering or peeling paint
Keep an eye out for any blistering or peeling paint when inspecting your roof for any problems. If your roof is poorly ventilated, moisture may build up which can cause blistering or peeling paint. Blistering paint could also be an indication that your gutter system is failing. Either way, it’s best to get in touch with your local roofers to assess the problem for you and carry out any necessary repairs to restore your roof back to its former glory. Your roofing company will know the best course of action to take and how to properly ventilate your roof to prevent similar issues in the future.
B & D Roofing & Building: Reliable Roofers Near You
If you’re looking for a reliable and reputable roofing company in Scotland, you needn’t look further than B & D Roofing & Building. From flat roofs and restorations to green roofs and new builds, our experienced, skilled and qualified team of local roofers have got you covered with our roofing services. We provide a full range of roof repairs and renovation work throughout the Central Belt of Scotland. Whether you’re in need of roof leak repairs or building maintenance, look no further than us.
To learn more about our services, visit our website.
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