Here at Team Construction in Denver, we want to share some of the signs your Denver home needs roof repair. To the untrained eye, it can be hard to tell the difference between needing to replace a few shingles and needing a complete roof restoration. No homeowner wants to discover that they need to replace their roof, but a properly functioning roof is essential to protecting the rest of your home. Here are a few items to help you.
Hail
In our area, hail happens quite frequently. And when it does, it can cause trouble for your roof. While the damage isn’t always easy to spot, signs your Denver home needs roof repair include missing granules, bruising, and cracking. A storm damage inspection may be needed if you’re still not sure after taking a look by yourself.
When you are trying to spot bruising, feel the surface of the shingles for small indentations. If you feel an indentation, press down to see if it gives. If the shingle gives, then the shingle may be permanently damaged.
Cracking is easier to see. You will clearly see cracks running through the shingle. Missing granules are also simple to spot. You will see smooth spots that are not the same color as the rest of the shingle or possibly whole shingles that look that way.
If you see signs of hail damage, contact roof repair professional, such as our own Team Construction in Denver. We can perform a roof inspection to determine how extensive the damage really is. Also, contact your insurance company. Most insurance companies will cover the cost of roof repairs but will want a professional inspection and estimate.
Whatever you do, don’t ignore signs your Denver home needs roof repair. If you do not take care of your roof issue, further deterioration will occur and cause larger problems.
Wind
Normal winds are generally not a problem for most roofs, though, over time, consistent winds will create issues. High winds, particularly those brought in by severe storms, can create stress points on your roof. If winds reach 50 miles an hour or more, you should check your roof later for stress points which will be more susceptible to roof water damage. With water penetration, the roof can start to leak and even have structural issues.
When you inspect your roof following severe winds, check the roof edge first for misshapen shingles. The edge is typically where roof damage from high winds begins. You will also need to inspect the corners to see if anything has loosened. Additionally, you will need to look for missing shingles or missing portions of shingles. Both are signs your Denver home needs roof repair.
If any pieces or shingles are missing, be sure to replace them right away. Restoring small pieces of your roof is much cheaper than repairing a roof that has leaked and had water damage. If your roof’s wind damage is more substantial, contact a roofing professional. Be sure to take pictures of any damage to provide to your home insurance provider. They may cover the repair, and we can work with them directly to get it all taken care of for you.
Trees
Having a number of strategically placed trees around your property is very beneficial. Your roof is protected by shade which can extend the life expectancy of your roof. Of course, it is important that the trees are in good health. Unhealthy trees can be a big threat, particularly in storms with high winds. While fallen trees can be an obvious problem, that is not the only potential issue with unhealthy trees.
The damage from a fallen tree is pretty apparent, but you should check your roof if you have downed branches or even if the tree appears to have fallen away from the house. You should check for missing shingles, structural damage, or shingles with missing granules. Any of these issues are signs your Denver home needs roof repair.
Be sure to keep any branches trimmed away from your roof to prevent rubbing. If you find shingle branches on the ground near your trees, it is a sign that the branches may need to be trimmed. You will also want to watch for leaves and needles on your roof. If these pile up and sit on your roof, they can trap moisture and cause damage.
General Wear
Roof inspections will extend the life of your roof, but all roofs have a general lifespan. If you inspect your roof at least once a year, you can catch minor repairs and decrease the likelihood of needing a major repair. A properly maintained roof can last 20-25 years, sometimes more, especially if it well maintained and frequently inspected.
When you check your roof, you should also check for cracked caulk and inspect the flashing for rust. Additionally, inspect the shingles for signs of wear or damage. If you live in a damp area, check for moss or growths. This is a sign of decay. If it is small, a quick repair may be appropriate, but if it is extensive, it is a good idea to contact a professional to determine if you need a replacement roof.
Faulty Installation
If an installation is not done correctly, your roof’s life will be shortened. It is sometimes difficult to determine that your roof was incorrectly installed. There have been easy-to-spot cases of a bad installation, like shingles being installed upside down, but most are not so obvious. If your roof seems to be deteriorating quickly or experiencing a number of issues, they could be signs your Denver home needs roof repair. A professional inspection can show whether the installation is part of the problem.
If you feel your installation may be the source of your roofing troubles, get a professional inspection immediately. An improper installation can be a huge headache in the long run, so it would be best to make that determination.
Knowing the signs your Denver home needs roof repair is important to catch trouble early. If you need a roof inspection, repair, or replacement, contact us at Team Construction Roofing in Denver. We can help you determine what your roof needs and take care of any repairs or even a replacement for you.