Your roof is a critical part of your house, so it’s essential to give it the TLC it deserves. However, many homeowners don’t know the first thing about assessing roof damage and wouldn’t know where to begin if they did spot something.
Luckily, you can contact us at Shamrock Roofing and Construction for any roofing concerns that come up. In the meantime, our experts on roofing Cedar Rapids have compiled some of the most common signs that your roof is failing.
#1. Damage Viewed With the Naked Eye
Take a stroll around the house, and pay special attention to what you see on the roof. Some roof damage can be seen clearly from ground level. If you notice missing shingles, large cracks and dents in the shingles, or spot gutters that are falling off the fascia, then it’s time to call a roofer to make repairs!
#2. Interior Staining
One of the most common reasons for a roof replacement in Cedar Rapids is water damage. But sometimes this problem can be sneaky and hard to detect. The best way to spot a leak is by carefully inspecting your ceilings and walls. If you notice any stains or discoloration, that’s your cue to dig deeper. Water is coming in somewhere. Contact a local roofer to come out and take a look. Your roof may have sprung a leak.
#3. Ventilation Issues
An efficient ventilation system is a crucial component of any roofing structure. The ventilation system circulates fresh air and helps avoid damp and mildew growth. Installing properly placed vents and soffits is one of the best preventative measures you can take to protect your roof. Without them, you could be in big trouble!
If your attic is always really hot or you spot water infiltration, call a local roofing company for a roof inspection. You may need to make adjustments to your vents.
#4. Poor Drainage
Gutters are also important for keeping your roof (and your foundation) dry. They tend to collect dirt and debris, though, which can clog them and ruin their efficiency. Gutters are also prone to cracking, and they sometimes pull away from your roof’s fascia without an underlying apron. When your gutters aren’t working properly, your roof is more susceptible to water infiltration, which can cause leaks in the rooms below. You may need to get experts on roofing in Cedar Rapids to come out and take a closer look.
#5. Rusted Flashing
Chimney flashing is a particularly vulnerable part of the roof. It’s typically made of galvanized steel, which can rust and create an opening for unwanted water infiltration. A quick solution is to slip new flashing under the damaged area, but you may need the help of a roofing pro to do the job correctly.
#6. Series of Shiners
A “shiner” is the roofing term for an exposed nail that missed the frame during installation. While this accident is commonplace during a roof replacement in Cedar Rapids, it can cause problems if not monitored. Shiners collect condensation and moisture, freeze, and then drip into your attic space, creating water damage you can’t reverse. You (or your roofer) can simply clip the nail with pliers. Problem solved!
Still Need Help Deciding If It’s Time To Replace Your Roof? Call Shamrock Roofing!
These are just a few of the many common signs your roof needs a refresh. Of course, the best way to make this tough call is to hire a team of expert roofers, and that’s where Shamrock Roofing and Construction comes into play. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection so you can find out what kind of condition your roof is really in.