Red flags are your friend, especially when they alert you to asphalt shingle roof problems. It’s best not to ignore them; doing so could elevate a minor problem into a major problem. Being proactive as soon as you notice damage or deterioration will save you headaches, money, and fixing damage that extends beyond the roof. Pay attention when red flags appear to resolve roofing problems proactively.
Roofing Red Flags: Signs You Need Roof Repairs or Replacement
While asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material— affordability, performance, ease of installation, and repair —they aren’t invincible. Thanks to advances in material development, asphalt shingles score high on performance, sustainability, and appearance. But when shingles start to show damage or age, it’s time to take action.
Here are five red flags that indicate a need for roof repair or replacement.
Missing Granules
Granules are a key component in asphalt shingles. They are made of crushed rock that serves to protect the shingles’ asphalt and fiberglass layers from the elements. Through time and exposure to extreme weather conditions, granules can go missing, resulting in bald spots. Lost granules expose shingles to degradation, leading to more extensive damage. While some granule loss is normal and nothing to worry about, wide loss indicates your roof has lost some of its ability to protect your home. Your roof is flying a red flag when bald spots dominate the surface of your roof.
Cracking
It’s not surprising that after years of protecting your home, your roof is showing signs of age, including cracked shingles that can allow water to seep into the underlayer of your roofing system. Constant exposure to UV rays, wind, rain, snow, and debris accumulation can take its toll on shingles. Also, radical swings in temperatures cause shingles to expand and contract, contributing to the development of cracks. Cracked shingles are a major red flag and a warning sign that your roof is no longer the asset it once was.
Curling
Curled edges are a red flag that your roofing system is in trouble. Like bald spots and cracking, curling occurs as a result of weather exposure — extreme heat and intense UV rays — and age. Curled edges keep shingles from lying flat, breaking down their capability to resist moisture. Once moisture gets in or under shingles, other problems arise, such as leaks, loss of efficient energy, and mold. But the weather isn’t the only culprit.
Poor ventilation and restricted airflow can cause moisture buildup in the roof resulting in deformed shingles. Curling is a clue that your roof needs some TLC in the form of shingle replacement or even roof replacement.
Age
Take note if neighboring houses are being re-roofed. Chances are the houses on your street are close to the same age with roofs exposed to identical environmental challenges. If your neighbor’s roof has storm damage or hail damage, chances are yours might too.
If replacement is necessary, keep in mind that today’s asphalt shingles have improved over the years, offering better protective qualities, more choices in color and format, and environment-friendly design.
Streaking
Dark streaks are another red flag that indicates all is not well with your roof. While discoloration suggests there may be a fungal issue or trouble with ventilation, the most common cause of black streaks is blue-green algae. Blue-green algae can attract black mold. While the algae isn’t harmful in itself, black mold is. It is a health hazard that can damage building materials and promote shingle deterioration. Regardless of why the streaks are there, homeowners are more likely to take action because of the unsightly look of the damage.
Bottom Line
Pay attention to what your roof’s condition is telling you. To avoid improper installation of a roof replacement and for comprehensive repairs, work with a reputable roofing company near you. Hiring a roofing contractor with years of experience will ensure your roof receives a thorough inspection that will serve as a benchmark going forward as well as a regular maintenance plan to guarantee your home is protected for years to come.
TRUST THE EXPERTS AT MCKINNIS
If you are in need of a roof inspection, roof replacement, or windows, siding, and gutter work, give us a call today at 402-426-2644, visit our website at www.mckinnisinc.com, or fill out our contact form. Our Omaha roofing and exterior experts are highly trained and always ready to help!