5 Signs You Need a Roof Inspection
If you’re like many people, you know that a standard roof lasts between 20 and 30 years – but you’re not quite sure how to inspect it yourself (or what to look for while you’re up there).
Fortunately, you don’t have to inspect it yourself. You can get a free professional roof inspection when you feel you need one.
But how can you tell if you need one?
If your roof is more than 20 years old and it hasn’t been inspected recently, you should call a professional. Otherwise, these five big signs that can let you know you it’s time for a roof inspection:
- You notice curled, cracked or missing shingles You notice leaks
- You see granules in your gutters
- You can see outside light in your attic
- You see sagging, either from the outside of your house or inside when you look at the rafters
Curled, Cracked or Missing Shingles
Shingles that are curled, cracked or missing are nearing the end. They’re no longer able to adequately protect your roof.
As asphalt shingles age, their corners curl in one direction or the other. If it’s just one shingle, you may not need to worry about a roof replacement just yet – but you should still have a roof inspection done. Your inspector will check shingles you can’t see from the ground, and he or she will look for other signs that indicate your roof’s condition.
Granules in Your Gutters
Finding shingle granules in your gutters is a sign that your shingles are wearing thin. Those granules are small, round pieces that are often coated in ceramic, and they protect your shingles from UV rays and water. Typically, granules are partially embedded in a shingle’s surface – but when the adhesive that holds them there degrades, they’ll fall out.
Outside Light in Your Attic
If you see outside light when you’re in your attic, that’s a clear sign that you need to call professionals for a roof inspection. The only light you should see is light coming in from vents or windows; if there’s anything more than a glow anywhere else, get a roof inspection as soon as you can. If light’s getting in, other things can, too, like animals and pests, water and more.
Sagging
Your roof should be straight – no dips, no curves and no sags. If you do see any of those things, you may be looking at a roof that needs immediate attention. Sags could be a result of rotten or saturated sheathing, a loose strut, a bad central beam or something even worse. An inspection can clue you into what’s wrong and what it’ll take to repair it.
Leaks
Leaking roofs can cause far more damage than what you’ll see initially. Water can seep into walls and let mold thrive, it can degrade the integrity of your roof and its underlayment, or cause your roof to fail. The sooner you repair a leaky roof, the better off you’ll be; your roofing contractor may be able to head off the most severe damage.
Do You Need a Roof Inspection?
If you’ve seen any of these signs on your roof, or if your roof is more than 20 years old, it may be time for a roof inspection.
Call us at 972-454-4400 to schedule your free roof inspection in Frisco or one of the surrounding communities – we’ll come to your house at a time that’s convenient for you.