Shingle Roof Repair
Do You Need to Repair Your Shingle Roof?
Proper maintenance can really extend the life of your roof. But how do you know when it’s time for a repair? It’s a great idea to check your roof for damage on a regular schedule as part of your home maintenance routine, to check after weather events, and to watch for signs of water leaks on the interior.
Regular inspection
According to The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) you should conduct a roof inspection at least twice a year, in the spring and fall. Start inside the attic (if you have one). Here’s what you should be looking for:
- Sagging roof deck
- Signs of water damage
- Leaking or dripping
- Discoloration and trails
- Mold
- Light shining through the roof
Next, go up a ladder. Look for things like damaged flashing, missing shingles, or damage, such as curling or blistered shingles. You should be able to get a pretty good view of most of the roof without leaving the ladder. If you do have to go up on the roof, be sure to wear shoes with good tread.
Pay special attention to areas around chimneys, vents, or other protrusions. Another thing to check is the gutters, for granules. Losing the granulated coating is a sign of advanced shingle wear.
Other times to check for damage
Storms can do a lot of damage to roofs. High winds and heavy rains can blow shingles off, and hail can make shallow divots and knock granules off the shingles. If you see damage after a storm, call a professional to have your roof evaluated.
The advantage to having an inspection is, depending on the age of your roof, your home insurance policy may cover all or part of the repairs, and you might even get a new roof for the cost of your deductible. A professional assessment is invaluable when making an insurance claim.
Roof material and condition
Asphalt shingles are the easiest and least expensive type of roofing material to repair. Damage to asphalt shingles is apparent in cracking, discoloration, loss of granular coating, curling, or warping. If you see any of these signs, call a licensed roofer to have a look. It may be time to replace the roof, or you may only need minor repair work. Typically, a 3-tab roof will last 15 years or more, and a dimensional shingle roof will last at least 24 years.
Wood shakes in need of repair or replacement will be split, warped, or discolored. Wood shake roofs generally last 20 or more years, and will last longer if well cared for. With a wood roof, you should also watch for termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-boring insects that might eat through your roof.
If you see damage, call a professional roofer right away. They will assess the damage and advise you whether you need to repair or replace. Taking quick action when your roof is damaged can save your big money in the long run. It’s always cheaper to repair a few shingles than to deal with water damage to the roof deck and the interior of your home.
