When your roof needs emergency repairs

Introduction

As a homeowner, your roof is one of your most significant investments. The roof protects your home and everything in it from the elements, and it is essential to ensure it is always in good condition. Unfortunately, even the most well-maintained roof can sustain damage, and it is necessary to identify the signs that your roof needs immediate attention. In this blog post, we will discuss signs indicating your roof requires emergency repairs.

The roof is sagging.

If your roof is sagging, it may indicate that moisture has entered the rafters, weakening them. A new roof that sags may result from improper installation. In either case, it is essential to have a roofing contractor assess the situation immediately to determine if a repair or replacement is necessary.

There are damaged or missing shingles.

Strong winds and rain can loosen or dislodge shingles, leading to more severe damage if left unattended. A roofing contractor should be consulted when you notice missing or loose shingles on your roof. Failing to repair missing or loose shingles can lead to more severe damage, and it is essential to have a professional roof inspection to determine the best course of action.

Rotted roof decking.

Waterproof decking serves as a secondary moisture barrier in the event of a leak. If you notice that your roof has deck rot, it has likely suffered moisture damage as well. Fungi and excess moisture cause deck rot, and it is essential to have a roofing contractor assess the situation immediately to determine if a repair or replacement is necessary.

Shingle granules in the gutters.

Shingle granules may accumulate in your gutters if you have asphalt or composite shingles. However, if you notice large amounts of granules coming from your roof, it may indicate that the shingles need to be replaced. These particles resemble coarse, black sand.

The shingles are curled or cracked.

As shingles near the end of their life, they may swell, crack, or curl. If you notice one or two defective shingles, replace them to extend the life of your roof. However, if you notice excessively warped shingles, the roof may require a complete replacement.

Your home has water damage.

If you notice water damage to your walls or mold in your attic, you should have your roof inspected immediately. A leaky roof may result in water damage to your walls, and a damaged roof or underlayment may cause mold and mildew due to insufficient roof ventilation.

There is a hole in your roof.

If you notice sunlight streaming through your attic, it is a clear indication that you have a roofing problem. Light passing through shingles allows rain, wind, and moisture to enter your home. Sunlight beaming through your roof indicates that some shingles are damaged or that your roof has reached the end of its lifespan.

Your attic is infested with animals.

Animals may make your roof their home, and you may notice squirrels, birds, or other animals running in and out of your roof throughout the day. The presence of animals indicates a large enough hole in your roof that needs to be immediately repaired.

Damaged flashing.

The flashing on your roof protects your roof’s most vulnerable areas from water. It appears where the roof plane meets vertical surfaces, such as walls or dormers, and around roof features such as vents, chimneys, and skylights. If your flashing is lifted, rusted, or otherwise deteriorating, water can penetrate your home and require immediate roof repair.

Storm damage to the roof.

During a storm, the wind can easily knock down overhanging tree limbs, causing significant roof damage. Following a storm, missing or broken shingles and water entering the attic also indicate storm damage. If your roof has experienced storm damage, your first two calls should be to your insurance and a local roofing contractor.

Conclusion

To ensure that your roof remains in good condition, it is essential to identify the signs that it needs emergency repairs. Regular inspections by a qualified roofing contractor can help identify problems early on, saving you money in the long run. Please make sure to address roof problems before it's too late! Contact Blackhawk Roofing, your trusted residential roofing contractor in Springfield, Illinois, for all your roof repair, inspection, and replacement needs.