Roof damage can present a big problem. However, hidden roof damage can be even worse.
Unfortunately, there are a lot of elements working against you that can slowly or abruptly destroy your roof. Violent storms, hail, snow, ice, wind, and sun can all affect the health of your roof.
Having a damaged roof you’re unaware of can create a lot of complications. If not addressed quickly, these complications can go from bad to nightmarish in the course of a few weeks.
But how do you detect roof damage if it’s hidden?
Keep reading, we’ll point the way.
How to Detect Hidden Roof Damage
Most of us know what healthy shingles look like versus damaged ones. Therefore, seeing curled, deformed, or missing shingles on a roof is an obvious sign of roof damage.
However, that’s not what we’re talking about here. We’re talking about the hidden signs of damage. The ones you have to pay special attention to.
Check out these five ways to find hidden roof damage.
1. Water Damage
Water damage can be as innocent as discoloration on some boards, or as sinister as structural damage. However, if you notice even the smallest sign of water damage, you must act quickly, as it could be indicative of a much bigger problem. Additionally, the longer material is exposed to water, the worse the damage will be.
Water damage in your ceiling, the high parts of your walls, or in the attic most likely points to roof damage. The key is using the water damage as a guide to finding where the leak is. However, most people are better off leaving that to professionals.
2. Mold
While you may not be able to see water damage, the presence of mold is a good indication that you’ve got it. However, you can’t always see mold either, but you may be able to smell it.
It might not be a bad idea to regularly check for mold in your attic or any other places that may be susceptible to water or moisture. Mold can cause serious health complications if left unchecked. The last thing you want is minor roof damage leading to health issues in your family!
3. Look in Your Gutters
If you’re brave and capable enough to mount a ladder up to your gutters, hidden roof damage may be hiding in there!
When your shingles start to wear out, they lose the granules they’re coated with. Gravity, wind, and rainfall push the granules down into your gutters. While it’s expected to have some in there, an excessive amount may mean it’s time for a new roof.
4. Pay Attention to the Weather
While not necessarily a hidden sign of roof damage, the weather itself can be a huge indicator of how your roof is doing. After violent storms, high winds, and icy winters, it’s not a bad idea to have your roof inspected. After all, the weather is one of the leading causes of roof damage.
5. Hire a Professional
Finally, the best way to detect hidden roof damage is by having a trained eye take a look. It may not be the most convenient, but a professional roofing contractor will know the signs (even the hidden ones) to look for.
Plus, it will give you the peace of mind, knowing exactly what condition your roof is in.
Don’t Hesitate
If you suspect your roof may have sustained some damage in a storm or is just getting old, you can’t afford to wait!
As we suggested above, minor hidden roof damage can quickly become a big ordeal. Contact us today and request a free estimate. We’ll come out and inspect your roof and it won’t cost you a thing!
What have you got to lose?