Pittsburgh’s continental climate can do a number on your home’s roof. With both harsh winters and sweltering summers, it is important to understand what signs you may encounter that indicate roof repair is necessary.
If you leave them unnoticed or unattended, it can cause even further damage and costly repairs. You might have to deal with structural damages, water leaking, or energy loss in the form of higher electricity bills. We are sure you aren’t ready for any of these, considering the 31% higher cost of utilities in Steel City.
So, how can you tell if your roof is in bad shape? We have listed some signs that you must look out for.
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Your Roof’s Age
Sometimes, you need no signs, just the knowledge that your roof is old. Most residential roofs last between 20 to 30 years, while flat roofs usually have a shorter lifespan of up to 15 years. If your roof is past its prime, you should have it inspected for potential repairs.
Old roofs can soon start losing shingles and letting water seep through. Both these issues can lead to costly repairs and renovations down the line.
Take action before it gets too late.
Damaged Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the top choices among homeowners for roofs. They last much longer than other materials and are easy on the pocket. But they aren’t invincible, as time will take its toll on them. Pittsburgh’s harsh winters and frequent thunderstorms can easily damage your asphalt shingles.
If you find any broken, missing, or cracked shingles, it is time to call EAS Roofing, Pittsburgh’s most trusted roofing contractor. The team will inspect your roof and give you a suitable plan of action. During your roof inspection, they will also look for signs of moss or algae growth, which can indicate a moisture problem.
Granule Loss
Granules are the protective layer of your shingles that provide UV protection and give shingles their distinctive color. As your roof ages, it will lose some granules. It’s normal. But if you notice excessive loss, there’s something wrong. High foot traffic, improper installation, extreme weather conditions, and poor shingle quality are the top reasons you might be losing granules.
You can tell if there’s a granule loss issue with your roof by inspecting your gutters and downspouts, running a hand over your roof’s surface to detect any uneven texture, or looking for bald spots. If any of these signs are prevalent, get instant help.
Moss Growth
Do you have green patches on your roof? It could be moss or algae growing in the area. Don’t mistake it for a harmless aesthetic issue. It is your cue that your roof is in bad shape.
Moss and algae need moisture to grow, so if it is present, it could mean your roof has a moisture problem. Moss growth can add extra weight to your roof by retaining excess water. It can lead to sagging or, worse, an entire collapse. To eradicate the issue, look for signs like damaged shingles, loose flashing, or gutters overflowing near the roof.
Gutters Have Debris
Are your gutters clogged with debris? You can inspect this by checking the rain gutter. If it is filled with twigs, leaves, dirt, or anything else, it is a sign that your roof needs repair.
Clogged gutters can wreak havoc on your home’s exterior and put pressure on your roofing system. The pressure can compromise the structure and establish potential leaks.
Install gutter guards if you’re looking for a quick solution to blocked gutters. It will keep out debris and reduce the amount of maintenance, effort, and money you might have to invest in the future.
High Energy Bills
Your electricity bills have surged during the last few months. But you haven’t changed anything in your home.
If that’s the case, you probably have a poorly insulated attic. If the insulation isn’t strong enough to keep the heat in, your HVAC system will be running over time.
Also, check your loft for any signs of dampness or cracks. We recommend getting your attic insulated to prevent heat transfer from the outside.
What does it have to do with my roof?
If all these tests come out negative, then your next stop is the roof. Cracks or punctures can reduce the efficiency of your insulation, resulting in higher energy bills.
Leaks in Your Attic
When did you last inspect your attic? Believe it or not, you must check it every few months. Otherwise, you may miss out on signs that indicate a roof leak.
Roof leaks happen when there are cracks in your roof. You can blame damaged shingles, punctures, or poor installation for these leaks. If you spot any wet spots, discolored patches on the roof, or water stains, you have a problem.
Don’t only check your attic during summer. Winter attic inspection is just as necessary. Extreme temperatures can cause the formation of ice dams. These nasty formations can mess with your insulation.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is used to seal and protect roof joints, transitions, and penetrations. These usually last for years, but if the flashing is old or damaged, there’s a big chance it will let water seep in. We all know what happens when water enters the home – electrical hazards, mold growth, and structural damage.
What can damage flashings?
Poor installation, corrosion, or extreme weather conditions. Check for signs of rusting and age to know if your flashing needs repair or replacement. If you spot anything that needs attention, get in touch with the professionals. Fixing damaged flashing requires a certain degree of expertise. If you’re confident you can handle it yourself, don’t get to it unless you have taken all safety measures, like wearing gloves and goggles.
Conclusion
Roof repairs aren’t DIY projects. They demand a certain degree of expertise and should be handled by professionals. Remember, when it comes to roofs, you can’t procrastinate. You must handle the repairs at your earliest to ensure a safe and protected home.
If you notice any signs of damage, whether it’s cracked shingles, moss growth, or leaks in the attic – call Pittsburgh’s best roofing contractors. They can help you assess the issues and come up with a suitable solution. When signing a contract with a roofing contractor, always ask for references and read reviews. You don’t want to settle for anything but the best.
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