Depending on the materials used, roofs are designed to last for up to 20 years without problems. However, with time and weather, there can be gaps for water intrusion, which can expose the roof to harm if left untreated. These gaps are known as roof leaks.
There are many causes of roof leaks, such as gaps in the shingles and hairline cracks. If left unattended to for long, these can lead to water accumulations, which yield more severe problems like wood rot, mold, interior damage, etc.
Unfortunately, these problems do not surface until they become too late and expensive to control. However, there are earlier exterior signs to watch out for to know if a roof has developed leaks. Checking for these signs will help locate leaks and prevent further severe leaks and prevent the roof from damaging.
Here in this article, we will walk you through the most common earlier exterior signs that show there are leaks in your roof.
Storm damage and missing shingles usually an important reason of getting your roof replaced through your insurance company.
Missing Shingles
Even if it is just a single shingle that is missing on your roof, you still have to pay attention to it. A missing shingle will not only cause leaks on your roof but also cause severe damages when left unfixed for long.
There are instances where you can easily replace a missing shingle, but in most cases, it is necessary to hire the service of a professional roofer to get the job done. This is to ensure you do not cause more damages to your roof while fixing the existing ones.
Wind Damage
Wind damage occurs during high winds. Though roofing materials are designed to withstand high winds, they occasionally surrender to the threat of higher wind. However, winds do not have even effects on every part of your roof. The edges, the ridges, and the corners are more susceptible to the impacts of winds than other parts of the roof.
The effects of high winds include lifting of the shingle and removal of nails, which creates holes on the roof. Wind damage also includes falling of limbs and trees on your roof.
When you notice wind damage on your roof, this should be enough signal that your roof is prone to leaks. If you have debris and limbs on the roof due to wind damage, ensure you clear them immediately to prevent further damages.
Hail Damage
Hailstones can cause damages to the roof, especially if they are big. Though these stones cannot single-handedly damage the roof, they can destroy the protective layers of granules and expose the roof to UV rays coming from the sun. This will gradually damage the ceiling if you do not take proper care of it when noticed.
Open Nails on the Roof
One other common way homeowners have leaks in their roof is through open nails. You might have left an open nail behind when a roof is replaced or repaired, dish or antenna installed.
Unfortunately, these open nails will not cause slow but severe damages to your roof.
Unfortunately, these open nails will not cause slow but severe damages to your roof. As such, when finding earlier signs of roof leaks, make sure you inspect areas where you have likely left open nails. If you find any, ensure you patch the caulk them. If you cannot fix it by yourself with flashing, hiring a professional becomes essential.
Because there are multiple reasons your roof the lake we split and describe all the signs into articles. Stay tuned, and in our next article we will name other essential signs to pay attention to.
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